Do almonds cause you to put on weight?

Like all dried fruit and nuts, almonds attract opposing views: their undeniable benefits are accompanied by a suspicion that they are a highly calorific food, and not advisable for those following a diet or looking to lose weight. In reality, in the right amount, almonds are good for us: they are a great panacea for the body, providing energy and nutrients that are essential for heart and bone health. Analysing their nutritional value, almonds and dried fruit and nuts almost become a natural dietary supplement: let’s find out how many almonds we can eat each day, as a snack to ward off hunger or as a dessert after a meal.

The nutritional value of almonds: a concentrated store of energy

The almond is the edible seed of the almond tree, a plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. Originating in Asia, it then spread to Europe and Canada; known as a typical Sicilian speciality, it stands on the list of Traditional Agri-food Products, certified by the Ministry. Among oily seeds, the almond has the highest fibre content (12%), which – together with a high protein content and low carbohydrate content – makes it a healthy and filling snack, even in small quantities. The calories in almonds amount to 600 calories per 100g, but even though they constitute half of the nutrition present within the seed, the fats within almonds are unsaturated: it is therefore not true that almonds will make you put on weight. On the contrary, they can help to lower your levels of bad cholesterol and fight inflammation, thanks to the presence of Omega 3.

The benefits of almonds: vitamins and minerals for health and beauty

Almonds are also healthy because they are a complete foodstuff: as well as protein, fibre and good fats, they also contain vitamins B and E, magnesium, calcium and iron. Vitamins are essential for the correct functioning of the metabolism: in particular, vitamin E fights free radicals, responsible for premature ageing, and strengthens the immune system. The benefits of almonds also extend to the nervous system, thanks to their magnesium content, which helps to alleviate stress and tiredness: calcium keeps bones strong and the iron content makes almonds a great remedy against anaemia.  The presence of potassium combined with a low sodium content helps to reduce blood pressure. To take advantage of these benefits, how many almonds should we eat every day? Around 15, or 30g.

Treat yourself: almonds are also good for your mood!

Almonds will only make you put on weight if consumed in excessive quantities or if you have an allergy or food intolerance: they are recommended for diabetics, because they help to stabilise blood sugar levels and contain little sugar. The nutritional value of almonds is so balanced that you can enjoy them as a guilt-free dessert, especially if you select an authentic and artisan product, made with natural and high-quality ingredients. The granita made by the RivaReno ice creamery is an extremely fine mixture of water, almonds and cane sugar, making it natural and light: only freshness is added to the calories of the almonds, to quench your thirst and give you an energy boost during daily life or before sport.

If you don’t want to count how many almonds you need to munch away on everyday…treat yourself to a granita from the RivaReno ice creamery, and enjoy all the benefits of almonds!