Almonds are a rich source of micronutrients. MUSBA HASHMI speaks with experts to tell you how adding almonds in your diet can help boost immunity and ensure overall wellbeing
If one were to ask what is it with dry fruits these days, then the answer is simple — the need for boosting immunity.
In the wake of the pandemic, all people want is to ensure their family’s health and strengthen their immune system to fight off infections. This is making them take to all kind of immunity booster supplements and Vitamin C capsules. However, a simple easily available ingredient — almonds — can do the job for them.
Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head — Dietetics, Max Healthcare — Delhi, tells you that regular intake of lots of fruits and vegetables, having a balanced diet and a handful of almonds is all what people need to give their immune system a boost.
“The current pandemic has highlighted more than ever, the need for proper nutrition amongst Indian families. Many Indians suffer from ailments such as blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, Diabetes and obesity, each of which make one susceptible to COVID-19. Hence, it’s absolutely important for families to revisit their diet and healthcare habits, and adjust to this new normal. Whether you are suffering from one of the aforementioned ailments, or are at risk, be sure to include nuts like almonds, seasonal fruits, vegetables and probiotics that are nutrient rich and add to the body’s overall health,” Samaddar says, who was a part of the discussion on the importance of ensuring family health and nutrition amidst a pandemic, organised by the Almond Board of California.
Not just that, one of the many benefits of eating california almonds is that it helps to make one feel good and also keep the hunger pangs at bay.
“This is the best food to snack on and makes you feel full. The ones who are on diet can eat almonds without fearing weight gain because it is full of micronutrients,” says Madhuri Ruia, Pilates Expert and Diet & Nutrition Consultant.
But to bring out the100 per cent in your nutrition, she says, you need to exercise daily.
“Exercise and nutrition are the two sides of a coin,” Ruia adds.
For those who are tired of decoding what a handful means, it is 23 in number and approximately 30 grams in weight.
“Anything in excess doesn’t work well, 30 grams is more than enough. You need to leave space for other nutrition too,” Ruia tells you. Since ages, our mother and grandmother tell us to soak almonds overnight before eating and it is indeed a good option.
“Soaking almonds are good because there are a lot of soluble elements in them, when you soak it the nutrients are better absorbed. But, don’t peel it because then you are discarding the fibre,” Samaddar tells you.
Emily Fleishman, VP — Global Marketing Development, Almond Board of California, tells you that during this pandemic, the Almond Board of California has been persistently working towards educating consumers on the importance of proper nutrition and the need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
“We have also invested in years of scientific research to understand almond health benefits across heart health, diabetes and weight management and skin health — which are all relevant to Indian consumers, especially now. Awareness around good food choices, and snacking habits is key to leading a healthy lifestyle, and for us, it’s important to make sure that families across India have access to this information,” Fleishman says.