|
Almonds; we
grow them on our fincas and think they are just little nuts; peasant food.
Well maybe, but almonds contain an impressive arsenal of health giving
properties.
They are entirely free of cholesterol, low in saturated fat and they are a
great source of dietary fibre. Almonds are also high in monounsaturated fat,
which is useful in lowering and then maintaining, low cholesterol levels.
Almonds are the best known source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. They
also contain plenty of protein, magnesium, potassium, copper and zinc. In
addition they pack enough calcium to make them a serious aid in the fight
against osteoporosis.
It has also been estimated that by eating almonds just five times a week,
you can halve your risk of contracting heart disease.
All this has been understood for some time but a more recent discovery is
that eating almonds may reduce the risk of cancer. One study has concluded
that the monounsaturated fat contained in these nuts may help prevent cancer
of the colon.
Another study shows that their phytochemicals inhibit tumour cell growth.
Yet more research suggests that almonds are a good protection against
prostate and cervical cancers.
Work in Finland has even linked almonds to the reduction of the risk of lung
cancer.
In Northern Europe almonds are usually thought of as a Yuletide treat. But
here in the South, where they are so readily available, it would be a great
shame not to eat more of these health giving nuts. |
