Health Benefits of Almond Nuts

• Minerals--Almonds offer a unique blend of minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, among others) that are beneficial to bone health (aiding in bone mineral density).

• Vitamin E--These nuts are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that can cut risk of certain cancers, cataracts, and heart disease.

• Folic Acid--Almonds are a source of folic acid, which helps in making red blood cells and in protecting against heart disease and stroke.

• Phytochemicals--They also contain phytochemicals that may render protection against heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.

• Arginine--Almonds are rich in arginine. Current research suggests that arginine-rich diets reduce the risk of coronary disease.

• Monounsaturated Fat--Almond nuts contain monounsaturated fat, associated with reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels and thought to contribute to healthful levels of heart-protective HDL. Just one ounce of almonds per day (one handful) may beneficially affect cholesterol levels.