How Almonds can Lower the Risk of Developing Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes

Almonds are a favorite food of many, and yet they provide more than just a tasty snack. New research shows a powerful preventative benefit for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, both common and significant health threats to a significant population. Even a small amount of almonds every day can have a great effect.
The Journal of the American College of Nutrition published a study conducted at Loma Linda University`s School of Public Health. Led by Dr. Michelle Wien, it studied 65 adults who were prediabetic. They were broken into two groups, one of which had a diet that included almonds and another of which did not. The group with the almonds showed a number of benefits, including better insulin levels. They had improved markers for insulin resistance and beta-cell function.
What the results of this study essentially mean is that the almonds helped the person fight against the negative effects of high blood sugar. Blood sugar can spike after meals, and pave the way to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. An improvement in these can lead to a lower risk of these dangerous conditions.
Almonds have a number of features that make them healthy. First, they contain a high fiber content. They also have unsaturated fats. They provide a lot of calories in a small amount, and can provide a wonderful substitute for unhealthy food that people may have otherwise chosen such as candies or foods high in saturated fats. They can leave people feeling full instead of reaching for these items, which may lead to cardiovascular problems.
Almonds may cause people to eat less in general, which can help people avoid obesity. Obesity is a very strong risk factor for both cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. What’s more, they are natural, which is a great alternative for processed foods high in chemicals that may cause additional health problems.
Almonds contain proteins, carbohydrates and fats in a positive ratio for the human diet. They help to regulate blood sugar, as well as reduce insulin resistance.
Almonds can affect LDL cholesterol. The study showed lower amounts of LDL levels in the group that consumed nuts, which is associated with improved cardiovascular health. The better measures of insulin sensitivity also plays a part in the lower risk of cardiovascular problems and type 2 diabetes.
Almonds can provide a number of cardiovascular benefits. Adding them to your daily diet can provide a quick, easy and healthy snack. You can have them naturally, mash them up into almond butter or include them in a variety of dishes. Each one ounce serving contains 3.5 grams of fiber as well as 13 grams of unsaturated fat and one gram of saturated fat.
Resources:
http://www.naturalnews.com/031036_almonds_diabetes.html
http://www.npicenter.com/article/Research/Almonds-may-help-reduce-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-and-cardiovascular-disease-New-study.aspx
http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/articles/diabetes-news/10244-almonds-help-reduce-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-and-cardiovascular-disease