Almonds are superfoods with numerous health benefits because of their protein and healthy fat content. They also promote the feeling of fullness after eating, which can stop you from getting too hungry and help you manage your weight in the long run. In addition, a study from the University of South Australia (UniSA) shows that almond eaters have more hormones regulating almonds than those who eat a snack bar rich in carbohydrates.
Improve Your Appetite And Regulate Your Hormones With This Super Food
Researchers in a study have discovered that hormones associated with hunger are affected by eating almonds. Participants of the study were separated into almond eaters and non-almond eaters. In the group that consumed almonds, C-peptide responses dropped by 47%. Lower levels of this hormone, similar to the insulin produced by the pancreas, may promote insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Almond eaters also experienced an increase in other glucose-dependent hormones that reduce hunger. In addition, the hunger-reducing hormone glucagon increased by a significant margin (39%). The participants ate 45% more food due to decreased digestion-slowing pancreatic polypeptide responses. Plus, there was an 18% rise in the appetite- and weight-controlling hormone glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide.
In general, nuts have more fat and fewer carbohydrates than high-carbohydrate snack bars, which may explain the observed disparities in hormone levels, as the researchers pointed out.
What Are the Benefits of Eating Almonds?
Increases the Feeling of Satiety
Almonds are an excellent source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein while low in carbs.
In 2015, scientists found that snacking on almonds in the morning helped people feel complete for extended periods. Those who participated in the study ate either 173 calories or 259 calories of almonds. The more almonds the subjects ate, the longer their appetites were suppressed.
Feeling full might aid weight loss by reducing cravings for food.
Reduces Cholesterol Level
Despite their high-fat content, almonds contain only healthy, unsaturated fats, and this fat does not raise your “bad” cholesterol or LDL levels.
The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that eating moderate amounts of unsaturated fats can benefit blood cholesterol levels. Furthermore, almonds are cholesterol-free.
In addition, a 2005 study found that people who ate almonds had higher levels of vitamin E in their red blood cells and plasma and lower total cholesterol. Scientific studies have shown that vitamin E, as an antioxidant, helps prevent the oxidation of cholesterol that leads to clogged arteries.
Promotes Bone Health
The nutrients magnesium, calcium, manganese, vitamin K, copper, protein, and zinc found in almonds all play an essential role in maintaining healthy bones.
Thus, experts suggest you eat almonds as a method for obtaining some of these essential nutrients.
