Want To Shed Pounds? Add Almonds To Your Diet

1 min

You’ve heard it dozens of times – nuts are good for you, but don’t eat too many because they are quite dense in fat and therefore calories. However, research indicates that the reality is somewhat more complex – and that’s good news for nut-lovers who are watching their weight. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition revealed that while a handful (about 22 kernels) of almonds contains 170 calories, only 129 calories are actually absorbed by the body. The rest are passed through the digestive tract, because the protein and fat in them are relatively hard to digest. Even better news – after one daily handful of almonds, three percent of the calories you consume for the next 24 hours are rendered indigestible. That means if you eat 2,000 calories in a day, the almonds you ate in the morning will remove about 60 calories from that total. The effect probably applies to other kinds of nuts and sources of high fiber, although only almonds have been rigorously studied. So, enjoy your nuts on a daily basis- their monounsaturated fat content appears to lower cardiovascular risk. Opt for the least processed versions possible from raw to lightly toasted and salted yourself.

Imagine combining a daily almond routine with regular strenuous exercise. This duo would allow you to keep your calorie intake stable while burning the excess (either consumed or stored as body fat) more than ever!

Today’s Health Topics

Editor's Pick

• How To Make Anti-Inflammatory Golden Milk

Health Focus

• Vegetable Oils To Avoid?

Ask Dr. Weil's Q&A

• Rice Water For Hair Growth?