Everything You Need to Know About Almonds

Have you heard that Old Wives’ Tale about Almonds? Apparently, if you eat a handful before drinking alcohol, you ward off any chance of a hangover! Whether or not this is a fact is yet to be seen, but there is certainly a heap of reasons to munch on one of the world’s oldest nuts.
From their rich history and their social influence over the decades, right down to their many health benefits, read on for a deep dive into almonds and everything you need to know about them!

The History of Almonds

They’re getting a lot of attention in the media lately for being nutritional powerhouses – but did you know Almonds are no modern phenomenon? In fact, they date way back! It is said thatAalmonds are one of the first ever cultivated foods. They’re even mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible.

Some of the first Almonds were found in China, from where traders transported them as far and wide as they could. The almond tree made its way to California in the mid 1700’s, where the industry began to blossom. During the 1800’s, we saw scientific investment and research in the nut, as well as crossbreeding to create new varieties.

Over the years, they’ve maintained something of a position of prestige, having religious, social and ethnic significance. The Romans believed almonds enhanced fertility, so showered newlyweds in handfuls of them – because who needs confetti?

Where do Almonds Grow?

We can mostly thank our American friends for their ideal almond-growing environment. Although this impressive nut is native to particular regions across Syria, Turkey, and Israel, it’s been known to spread to Europe and Africa, too. However, the Golden State of California, USA, is flying the biggest almond flag these days.

It’s estimated that California produces over 80% of the world’s Almonds. The demand for this crunchy, lightly-salted nut is mostly driven by Chinese and Indian markets, where it’s praised for its healthy snacking qualities.

After the United States, the top Almond-growing countries (in order) are Australia, Spain, Morocco & Iran.

But what makes these climates so ideal? Almond trees like warm, dry weather, but timing is also super important. Almonds bloom earlier than other fruit trees, so can be harmed by frost if they’re not picked in a timely manner. Tropical climates are also less than ideal, because extreme temperatures can inhibit growth, causing shrinkage of the almonds.

5 Health Benefits of Almonds

Pour a balanced diet into the palm of your hands! Almonds have all the goodness you’d expect from most nuts – think vitamins and nutrients – with a few other suspected health benefits on top. Let’s take a look at how you’re treating your body when you chew on almonds:

1. Almonds are packed with nutrients. Their health profile is nothing short of impressive, with a portion of almonds delivering a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats, fibre, protein, vitamin E, manganese and magnesium.
2. They’re a handy source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are an important part of your diet, as they protect against oxidative stress, something that causes molecule damage, inflammation, ageing and some diseases.
3. They can be used to control diabetes. There’s evidence to show almonds can help people with type 2 diabetes, as they can regulate blood glucose and cholesterol levels. They’re low in carbs but high in healthy fats, protein and fibre, making them an ideal choice for those suffering with diabetes.
4. They can lower your cholesterol. “Bad cholesterol” or “high levels of LDL lipoproteins” can lead to health complications, such as heart disease. A diet that regularly includes almonds could lower cholesterol levels, according to some studies.
5. They can satisfy your hunger. Feeling a little peckish? A handful of almonds has hunger-fighting properties to make you feel fuller for longer, which could stop you from over-indulging and help maintain a healthy weight.