The benefits of adding nuts to our diet have been spoken about multiple times by health experts and nutritionists. Considered a superfood, nuts are a treasure trove of nutrients that help promote our overall well-being. Almonds (or badam), for instance, is one that has been a part of the Indian diet for ages. In fact, it is sort of a ritual in many Indian homes during winters to consume 5-6 soaked almonds in the morning. According to health experts, almonds are loaded with potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, and other nutrients that help promote immunity, bone health, eyesight, skin health, and much more. But did you know that almonds can help you lose weight as well?
If a new study by the University of South Australia (UniSA) - published by the European Journal of Nutrition - is to be believed, "a handful of almonds" may help keep our weight in check. Stating the findings, an ANI report said, "researchers, who studied how almonds can alter human appetite, discovered that a snack of 30-50 grams of almonds could encourage people to consume fewer kilojoules each day”. It was found that the people who consumed almonds, instead of an energy-equivalent carb-rich snack, reduced their energy consumption by 300 kilojoules at the next meal.
"Almonds are a fantastic, healthy snack to incorporate into the daily diet. We are now excited to look at how almonds might affect appetite during a weight loss diet and how they might assist with weight management in the long term," said Dr Sharayah Carter from UniSA's Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA). Moreover, if you are consuming soaked almonds, that can be beneficial for your weight loss diet as well. Experts suggest that soaking almonds releases the enzyme lipase, which is beneficial for digestion of fats, accelerating weight loss.
If you are also considering adding almonds to your weight loss diet, we have found some amazing healthy recipes to incorporate the same.
1. Badam Chutney
Pair your sandwiches or cheelas with this weight-loss-friendly chutney. It’s made with soaked almonds, which isn’t just easy-to-make but also comes packed with the flavours of chillies, tamarind, and a host of spices and herbs. It also boasts the goodness of coconut.
2. Dates And Nuts Laddoo
Winter and indulgence go hand-in-hand. And if you are someone who cannot resist the sight of laddoos, this winter-special recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also fill you up with healthy nutrients. With almonds and other nuts, besides dates, and desiccated coconut, this laddoo is perfect to load up on.
3. Oats And Almond Cookies
An essential to go with a cup of chai, oats and almond cookies are made with a host of healthy ingredients, sweetened by honey, and baked into crisp biscuits. Healthy, wholesome, and utterly delicious.
