Almonds are tasty and healthy snacks that are capable of increasing one’s intellectual ability. Almonds are a healthy treat and possess several health benefits. It is one of the most beloved nuts that are consumed in various ways.

Almond oil, almond butter, almond milk, and almond flour are different forms of almond. It is crushed and sprinkled over desserts to make it tastier. Almonds are power-packed with high calories but in spite of that, it helps people to reduce weight.

What are Almond?

The scientific name of Almond is ‘Prunus dulcis’ and is a fruit of the deciduous tree. Almonds are rich in calories and are covered with a brown hard shell. Brown’s hard shell is removed first to make it ready to eat. Sweet and bitter almonds are the two types of almonds.

A bitter form of almond contains prussic acid which is a toxic substance. The prussic acid in its refined form is cyanide which is a deadly poison. Bitter almonds are processed to remove this toxic substance before it can be used. Bitter almonds find its use mainly in cooking while sweet almond has several uses. Sweet almonds find its use in desserts, puddings, and garnishes, etc. Even you can add almonds and milk to get amazing health benefits.

Nutritional Value of Almond

Almonds possess high nutritional value and are categorized as one of the healthiest nuts. ¼ cup (around 35 grams) of almonds contain high energy of 206 calories with also carbohydrates (6 g), protein (7.6 g), fiber (4.1 g), monosaturated fat (18 g) and sugar (1.7 g). Almonds contains several vitamins that include – Vitamin A, vitamin B and vitamin E. It also contains essential nutrients and minerals required by the body that includes – Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, molybdenum, selenium and folic acid. Thus, almonds form a complete diet.