The great scholar Ibn al-Qayyim in his Prophetic medicine mentioned that almonds were beneficial for health, especially when eaten with dates and figs.
More recently, almonds have been associated with many health benefits, including helping to control weight gain and obesity.
Almonds are the seeds from the fruit of the almond tree. The most commonly consumed almonds are "sweet almonds" (Prunus dulcis). One ounce of almonds (or about 23 almonds) contains 160 calories. Almonds are a good source of protein and fiber, as well as rich in Vitamin E, magnesium, calcium and iron. Almonds contain a variety of antioxidants including the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol.
Almonds and Obesity
A 2004 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women who had eaten a serving of almonds had higher levels of cholecystokinin (a hormone associated with satiety from eating fat-containing foods) in their systems than men did [1]. In practical terms this means that while almonds may leave both women and men with a feeling of "satisfaction", women may stay fuller longer.
Another research study from King's College in London found that almonds appear to help block the absorption if carbohydrates, block their own fat from being absorbed, and improve satiety in men and women [2].
According to a 2003 study in the International Journal of Obesity, subjects who added eighty-four grams (about three handfuls) of almonds to a low-calorie diet enhanced weight loss when compared to a low-fat, low-calorie diet alone [3]. The diet that included almonds produced greater and longer sustained weight loss.
Tips on Using Almonds