Almonds have a long and rich history. They are mentioned in the book of Numbers which dates back to around 1400 B.C. Then, around 300 B.C., they were transported to regions such as Morocco, Greece, Italy and Spain. They were carried from Spain to California.

Today, California is the established leader in the almond industry. In the past, almonds were considered too fatty to be healthy but new research shows the many healthy benefits contained in these small nuts. Almonds actually lower the bad blood cholesterol levels (LDL) while not touching the good cholesterol levels (HDL), the fat in almonds is unsaturated, they are high in protein, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E, phosphorus and iron. They also contain phytochemicals which are plant chemicals that may provide protection against heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

The folic acid in almonds is believed to help fight the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries. Due to the high fiber content, there is a much greater sense of hunger satisfaction which can help maintain a healthy weight.

Some of my clients, as they have gotten older, have asked me about solving the problem of constipation. I usually tell them that if they eat almonds everyday, maybe throw in some broccoli (nature’s little scrub brushes) and run or walk around the block a couple of times, there will never be a problem with constipation. Of course, I say this in fun but those who do implement this perfect little food into their diet and do some type of cardio activity, usually report good results. Not that I expect a report. I eat almonds everyday. They are the first thing I eat in the morning before my coffee and I snack on them throughout my day.