Prunus dulcis, also known as the almond tree, is part of the rosaceae (rose) family.   

The tree grows in Mediterranean climates, with serrated leaves and white or pink flowers.  They have a drupe/stone fruit, with a downy hull, and a woody shell (the endocarp) that contains the almonds that we eat!

Almonds support heart health, gut health and cognitive health, they are high in protein and fiber, and contain healhty fats - including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, vitamins and and essential minerals including vitamin E and magnesium 

Known actions:

• Protect heart health: help lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol, due to the healthy fats it contains, such as monounsaturated fats

• Rich in antioxidants: antioxidants like vitamin E, help protect against oxidative damage and promote heart health

• Reduces blood pressure: studies show almonds can help to lower blood pressure

• Weight management:almonds are rich in both fiber and protein, which are known to help with satiety and reducing hunger, and overeating.

• Metabolic health: the fiber content is thought to be responsible for its help with blood sugar regulation

• Gut health: the prebiotics are known to help with promoting beneficial gut bacteria

• Eyes and cognitive health: the antioxidants, healthy fats and antioxidants combined are all known to benefit heart health and reduce age related cognitive decline!

• Bones: almonds contain calcium, phosphorus and magnesium which are all important for our bones!!

Nutrient Rich:

• Vitamin E:
  Fantastic source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Vitamin E is known for many roles on a cellular level, including helping with prevention of oxidative stress. Vitamin E act as scavengers against free radicals (loose electrons)that can damage our cells. It also helps with promoting cell membrane repair, and the regulation of platelet aggregation. It is beneficial for blood vessels, and helps with blood coagulation. Vitamin E also helps with the synthesis of collagen, which is needed for ligaments, muscles, bones and our skin

• Magnesium:
  Essential for various bodily functions, in fact, over 300 biochemical reactions in our body. It is needed for our nerves, muscles, immune health, blood pressure, and bones. It helps with nerve and muscle impulses, protein and DNA synthesis, energy production and blood glucose control.

• Almonds are also rich in iron, zinc, copper, manganese, B2 and B3