SICKLE CELL AND ALMONDS IN ITS VARIOUS FORMS
I use Almond oil, eat almond nuts and drink Almond milk, so thought to write about the versatility of this nut and how it helps me. What exactly are the benefits of Almonds that are good for someone with Sickle Cell:
For starters, Almonds are packed with vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber, and are associated with a number of health benefits. Just a handful of almonds, approximately one ounce, contains one-eighth of our necessary daily protein.
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Almonds contain lots of healthy fats, fiber, protein, calcium, magnesium and vitamin E. Almonds are also a very good source of manganese and copper.
Almonds are a fantastic source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect against oxidative stress, which can damage molecules in cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer. The powerful antioxidants in almonds are largely concentrated in the brown layer of the skin. For this reason, blanched almonds (skin removed) are not the best choice from a health perspective.
Vitamin E is the name for a group of fat soluble antioxidants. These antioxidants tend to build up in cell membranes in the body, protecting the cells from oxidative damage. Almonds are among the world’s best sources of vitamin E, with just one ounce providing 37% of the recommended daily intake.
The magnesium in almonds may also help to lower blood pressure levels. High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading drivers of heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. A deficiency in magnesium is strongly linked to blood pressure problems, regardless of whether you are overweight or not. Studies have shown that correcting a magnesium deficiency can lead to major reductions in blood pressure.
Almonds are low in carbs, and high in both protein and fiber. Both protein and fiber are known to increase satiety. They help people feel more full, so they end up eating fewer calories.
https://authoritynutrition.com
High-protein almonds are ideal for sating the appetite in a healthy way. They are rich in monounsaturated fats; much research now links this type of fat with a reduced risk of heart disease. These nuts are one of the richest sources of vitamin E, which seems to protect against UV light damage and Alzheimer’s disease. By munching away on almonds you can top up on important minerals: manganese, which helps the body form strong bones and regulates blood sugar; and magnesium, which is essential for organ, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and regulating blood pressure.
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The humble almond has powerful antioxidant and moisturising properties.
Almond oil is ideal for use in cosmetics because it is very light. You can wipe it over eyes to remove make-up without leaving an oil slick behind or massage it into skin as a moisturiser without it leaving a greasy residue.
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If you have dark circles and bags under your eyes, almond oil can come to your aid. Apply the oil every night before going to bed. You will see a noticeable difference in about two weeks.
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A sure shot solution to get rid of dark circles is by massaging your under eyes with almond oil before you go to bed. Why It Works: The vitamin E in the almond oil will rejuvenate the skin, and with regular use, lighten the skin under the eyes. Regular use of almond oil will also reduce wrinkles and crowfeet around the eyes.
Almond oil is known to boost immunity. Regular consumption makes the body stronger and enables it to fight common infections. It also proves to be an effective laxative and aids digestion. What You Need To Do: You could add almond oil as a dressing for tasty salads. This is one of the best ways to consume almond oil. Why It Works: Since almond oil has a mild laxative effect, it loosens stools, ensuring better cleansing of the system.
Any kind of massage is therapeutic, but a good massage with almond oil can also relieve muscular aches and pains. What You Need To Do? A few tablespoons of heated almond oil, when massaged into the affected area, almost instantly relieve you from joint or muscular pains. Why It Works? Almond oil has analgesic properties that help in relieving pain and stress from strained muscles.
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Now remember with all things nuts, some people are allergic to them. So do be careful and watch out as allergy to Almonds are quite common.
