History- Although we consider them a nut, almonds are in actuality, a seed. The almond tree, like its family members, the peach tree and apricot tree, bears a fruit containing seed within. This seed is encased in a hard shell. When the outer hull is removed, what is revealed is an oval-shaped edible kernel covered in a thin brown skin. This is the almond which we consume.

Health Benefits- Almonds are high in the mono-unsaturated fats which are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and their ability to lower LDL cholesterol. Almonds are also high in magnesium which is needed for healthy flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body. Almonds are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate the body’s water levels and blood pressure, thereby helping to promote cardiovascular health and protect against circulatory diseases. Almonds contain vitamin E, an antioxidant which is necessary for heart health, and which also provides health benefits to skin and hair. Almond skins contain a multitude of antioxidants including the same type of catechins found in green tea. These catechins are thought to detoxify and help prevent carcinogens from developing in the body. Almonds are also a good source of copper, vitamin B2, and protein.

Preparation- Most of us have access to shelled almonds in a variety of forms: whole, slivered, roasted, sweetened, sliced, candy-coated, etc. When choosing whole almonds, you should look for them to be uniformly shaped and not shriveled or wrinkled, aside from the natural striations which occur in the almond skins. Almonds in their purest form without any added ingredients are best. Refrigerated almonds will keep for several months or up to a year in the freezer. Be creative when incorporating almonds into your diet, almonds go well on almost anything – green salads, fruit salads, smoothies, yogurt, vegetables.