Almonds really seem to be the buzzword right now among fitness circles. Why is it that such a little nut can get so much hype? Well for starters, studies have shown that almonds are loaded with phytochemicals; these phytochemicals are thought to help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Almonds are also full of vitamins and minerals, and they're a pretty good source for protein and fiber. In 1 oz. of almonds, you'll get 12% of your daily protein and fiber requirements, as well as 35% of your vitamin E. They're low in saturated fat, have no cholesterol, and have actually been found to lower cholesterol. For those who are pregnant, they're a good source of folic acid. Folic acid is a must during pregnancy because it helps prevent spina bifida.
For weight loss, a study also showed that by eating 2 oz. of almonds a day, individuals felt fuller longer, and as a result, they didn't overeat in calories. That's the kicker for almonds. The reason why almonds are so popular with fitness professional 
and nutritionist is because of their effect on hunger. Almonds are such a convenient little snack; 2 oz. can be put in a Baggie, and then carried around in a pocket all day to snack on. By doing this, cravings for those potato chips or M&M's in the candy dish will be diminished. In an excess-calorie eating society, almonds are great for helping to reduce overeating. This is why I've told clients to carry around some almonds in their pocket. For people like nurses and teachers, it can be hard to get five meals in in a day, but by carrying around some almonds, they're able to get some excellent nutrition benefits; at the same time, their appetites are being suppressed, so they'll be less likely to reach into the candy jar.
As I was just saying about 5 meals in a day, weight gain can be the result of many things, the biggest being overeating. Another big factor is meals in a day. For someone eating 2 or 3 times a day, chances are, calorie consumption is all messed up. Instead of spreading the calories throughout the day, too many calories are being consumed in each meal. By eating 5 times a day, the body doesn't have to deal with processing so many calories at once, and as a result, there aren't as many excess calories to store as fat. Another reason why almonds are great, they allow the busy person to still be able to eat healthy 5 times a day.
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