Almond calories, nutritional value: raw, roasted, almond milk

Quite rarely, delicious foods are also healthy. One such example is almonds, which are widespread not only in Russia, but throughout the world. It is included in the diet not only by adults, but also by children. It can be both sweet and bitter.

But not everyone knows how many calories do ordinary and mountain almonds contain in raw, fried and dried form? What exactly is its benefit and how much per day will not cause harm to health? We will consider the answers to these and many other questions below.

Varieties of almonds

Currently, only two types of almonds are predominantly used in cosmetology and cooking, each of which has beneficial properties:

• Bitter look. The product is not suitable for internal consumption. Most often used for the production of valuable oils, liquid soaps and various fragrances. Due to its high toxicity, ingestion of the nut can cause serious poisoning.
• Sweet variety. It is used mainly in cooking as a food additive and for the preparation of natural cosmetics. It is consumed dried and fried.

The unpeeled ripe fruits of the almond tree are called bod. Usually, only the sweet variety of nut can be purchased in this form.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of almonds is unique because it combines many valuable components that have a positive effect on the human body. The following are considered the most useful:

The energy value, or caloric content, of the product is high and ranges from 570 to 600 calories per 100 grams. 1 piece of almond contains approximately 6-10 kcal, depending on its weight. Nutritional value is represented by the ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates (BJU) and is approximately 19/55/14 g for every 100 g of product.

History of the origin of almonds

Almond (lat. Prunus dulcis) is a shrub or small tree from the subgenus Almond (Amygdalus) of the Plum genus. Almonds are commonly called a nut, but it is more correct to call them the seed of an almond kernel, which is extracted from the fruit of a green shrubby plant.

Almond is a branched shrub (tree) up to 6 meters high. Its fruits are light brown and velvety seeds up to 3.5 centimeters in length and weighing up to 5 grams, covered with small dimples and grooves. Almonds grow on rocky slopes at an altitude of 800-1600 m above sea level (Bukhara almond reaches 2500 m), on calcium-rich soils. Light-loving, drought-resistant thanks to a well-developed root system. The fruits ripen in June-July. Fruiting begins at 4-5 years and lasts 30-50 years. Almonds are up to 130 years old.

The homeland of almonds is considered to be the territory of modern Turkey; from there it came to Europe and then to America. Mention of almond cultivation dates back to early BC. The almond blossom period was considered a symbol of the beginning of the new year. Almonds were used in embalming the dead: traces of almond oil were found in the tomb of the Egyptian king Tutankhamun.

Today, the most extensive plantations of almond trees are located in the USA (California), China, Syria, Iran, Morocco, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean region. In Europe, almonds are grown in the warm regions of Slovakia and the Czech Republic, in the vicinity of Litomerice.

The climatic conditions of Russia are unfavorable for the ripening of nuts, so our country imports almonds from these countries. In the republics of the former Soviet Union, almonds are mainly grown in Tajikistan. The city of Kanibadam is rightfully considered the city of blooming almonds.

Transport costs and customs duties, the high nutritional value of almonds for the human body determined the high price of the product.

Beneficial features

Despite their high energy value, almonds have many beneficial properties for the human body. The following are considered the most valuable:

• promotes the removal of toxins and waste from the body;
• strengthens the vascular wall, prevents the deposition of cholesterol plaques and is used for the treatment of atherosclerosis;
• improves heart function and is used in the treatment of mild heart failure;
• normalizes metabolic processes and stimulates them, used in dietary nutrition for weight loss;
• regulates blood glucose levels and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of diabetes;
• replenishes iodine deficiency and prevents the development of hypothyroidism;
• strengthens bones and prevents osteoporosis;
• has a sedative effect and is indicated for nervous disorders and frequent stress;
• normalizes the amount and composition of gastric juice, used for gastritis with high acidity;
• stimulates tissue regeneration processes;
• improves visual function, helps prevent myopia;
• has an antioxidant effect on cells and tissues;
• has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, choleretic, mild laxative and diuretic properties;
• replenishes the deficiency of minerals and valuable vitamins;
• strengthens the immune system;
• improves blood composition, can be used for the prevention and treatment of anemia;
• tones the body;
• promotes rapid saturation and maintains a feeling of fullness for a long time;
• prevents frequent colds and viral illnesses.

The diuretic properties of the product are often used as part of a complex treatment of the kidneys when sand is detected in them. The laxative effect helps in the treatment of chronic constipation.

For women, almonds are indispensable because they normalize hormonal balance and the menstrual cycle, eliminate pain during menstruation, improve the condition of hair, epidermis, nails, and the composition of breast milk. During pregnancy, it strengthens the mother's immunity, replenishes the lack of vitamins, gives vigor, prevents the development of various fetal defects, helps cope with the symptoms of toxicosis, and the diuretic effect prevents the appearance of edema.

For men, the product is also useful because it increases endurance and physical strength several times, prevents the formation and helps in the treatment of prostatitis, improves sexual function and prevents its early decline.

It is useful for children to consume almonds in order to prevent frequent colds and viral illnesses, replenish the deficiency of minerals and valuable vitamins, normalize brain function, memory, and attention.

Calorie content

For people on a diet, the high calorie content of drupes is not a reason to exclude the product from the menu. After all, if you eat a small amount of dry nuts, it will bring invaluable benefits. Regardless of the goal, be it creating an individual menu for weight loss or making a smoothie, it is useful to keep on hand certain calculations based on the total calorie content of one hundred grams of the product:

• 1 tbsp. l. – 9 pcs., which is equivalent to 54 kcal;
• 200 ml glass – 130 g, which corresponds to 790 kcal;
• glass with a volume of 250 ml – 165 g. those. 1004 kcal.

The high calorie content of almonds does not prevent them from reducing the concentration of triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins. Due to the content of monounsaturated fatty acids, almonds reduce the level of bad cholesterol more effectively than potent medications - statins.

Despite their high calorie content, almonds are included in special diets for losing weight. Weight loss is achieved through a balanced chemical composition (proteins + fatty acids + fiber). Thanks to which a feeling of satiety is created, eliminating uncontrollable snacking (research).

Stone fruits contain tocopherol, vitamin B2, as well as useful microelements: calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. In terms of the amount of protein, almonds are ahead of chicken eggs, and in terms of omega-3 concentration they are the leader among nuts. Regular use of 20 gr. almonds improve well-being and support the health of many systems and organs.

Contraindications

Despite many valuable properties for the human body, the product can be harmful to health if used incorrectly. There are several contraindications that will prevent the use of nuts for food:

• recovery period after surgery on the digestive system;
• severe forms of digestive disorders in combination with reduced motility of the small and large intestines;
• age up to 3 years;
• severe pathologies of the liver and gall bladder;
• colitis, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis in the acute stage;

It is strictly contraindicated to use the product if you are allergic to it. Almonds contain essential oils in large quantities, so they are among the strongest allergens.

If you exceed the permissible norm of the nut, side effects appear in the form of indigestion, nausea, in some cases vomiting, dizziness, spasms of the smooth muscles of the intestine, exacerbation of chronic diseases of the digestive system, rash, irritation, hyperemia (redness) of the skin.

In people with bronchial asthma and a tendency to allergic reactions, symptoms may include signs of suffocation and fear of death. The condition is life-threatening.

If such symptoms appear, you should immediately contact a specialist and exclude the possibility of further use of the product.

Harm of almonds and contraindications for use

Like any other product, almonds have contraindications:

1. Protein can cause a serious allergic reaction. If there are signs of a nut allergy, you should avoid eating all products containing almonds (including almond butter, milk, crumbs, etc.).
2. Almonds are not recommended for obesity. The high calorie content of the product immediately puts it on the list of prohibited foods. But when the weight starts to fall, a few nuts a day will help you get into shape faster. Of course, subject to an active lifestyle and sports.
3. You should not accept spoiled or unripe foods. The risk is very serious: cyanide in unripe kernels or mold and rancidity in old nuts will lead to intensive care.
4. Do not exceed the daily dose. An overdose will lead not only to excess weight, but also to tachycardia and headaches.

Selection and storage

Only a high-quality product will benefit the body. This is why you should choose the right almonds. It is recommended to give preference to dried product in sealed packaging. The expiration date is also important and you should pay attention to it. If the product is purchased in a shell, it must be intact, without mold or other visible defects.

If the nut is in shell, it should be properly peeled using a nut cracker. Do not use a hammer as it may damage the kernels. After removing the shells, soak the nuts in water for 5 minutes. After this, the product can be peeled, which imparts bitterness when consumed.

Almonds can be stored for a long time at home. In the freezer this period is more than 12 months, in the refrigerator - almost a year. If you store the fruit at room temperature, you should prevent moisture and sunlight from directly coming into contact with the product. In such conditions, nuts can be stored for more than six months. It is not recommended to keep crushed kernels for a long time, as they lose most of their beneficial properties and may become bitter.

Rules of use

The benefits of the nut can only be obtained with moderate consumption. It is not recommended for a healthy person to eat more than 15 pieces per day, which is equivalent to 30 g. For women during menstruation and menopause, the daily norm is 40 g. During pregnancy, 50 g per day is allowed no more than 3 times a week. If breastfeeding, you should first consult with a specialist and start using 5-7 pieces. If the baby does not experience any negative reactions, you can increase the dose to 10-15 pieces per day.

An adult and healthy man is allowed up to 70 g of nuts per day. If unpleasant symptoms appear, you should reduce the amount to 50 g and observe the reaction. For children, 5 pieces per day are enough to maintain immunity and tone the body. People with severe obesity should limit the amount of product to 30 g per day.

It is recommended to eat the nut as a snack on its own. This will allow it to be absorbed into the body as much as possible. For children under 7 years of age, it is allowed to be used in baked goods or other desserts.

It is strictly contraindicated to eat raw almonds due to their high content of toxic compounds. If possible, you should use dried product or, as a last resort, fried product. However, it has been proven that roasted almonds lose more than half of their valuable properties.

Daily intake of almonds

Nutritionists recommend adhering to the following standards for consuming this delicacy:

• the daily dose for adults should not exceed 40 g;
• Children are allowed to give almond kernels from the age of 3, starting with a minimum amount of 10-15 grams;
• For teenagers and older people, it is most beneficial to stick to the golden mean of 25-30 grams.

Pregnant women and people suffering from chronic diseases should first consult a doctor about the daily dosage. It is especially important to specify the methods of use and quantity for obesity and diabetes.

The average daily intake of almonds for adults without harm to health is 40 grams. It is enough to eat 22-25 kernels (with honey).

Essential oil

A valuable essential oil is extracted from bitter almond varieties, which has powerful regenerating, rejuvenating, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The product is obtained by cold pressing and is widely used in cosmetology. Regular use of the product in its pure form for hair and skin of the face and body allows you to get rid of acne, dandruff and irritation, prevent baldness, split ends, smoothes wrinkles, tones the skin, and protects against the negative effects of environmental factors.

A variety of homemade masks for skin and hair are also prepared based on the product. It is often included in various cosmetics. You can buy oil at the pharmacy. It has almost no color, has a light texture, a pleasant nut aroma and does not stain clothes.

Features of application

Nutritionists recommend consuming almonds regularly because they contain fiber and antioxidants. Claims about their harm due to poor absorption are scientifically unsubstantiated.

In medicine

There is no doubt about the health benefits of almonds. But why not double its effect? When used correctly, you will enrich the body with a large amount of vitamins and nutrients.

Important! The most important thing is to soak the nuts. Of course, raw crunchy almonds are a good snack, but soaking them makes them easier to digest and has a number of other beneficial effects.

Psycho-emotional instability, depression, insomnia, headache

Regular consumption of almonds helps overcome stress, depression, and fatigue. This is an excellent snack for athletes, giving the body energy and vitality.

A handful of nuts can be a natural pain reliever that has no side effects.

The most common causes of headaches include stress, tension, flu, sinusitis and digestive problems. If your headache persists, try relaxing, drinking a glass of water and eating almonds.

For otitis media

Almond oil can help with otitis media. In addition, it will be a good earwax softener. Place 1-2 drops of oil into the sore ear, lie down on the opposite side, lie down for 10-15 minutes.

To remove sand from the kidneys

The active substances contained in the nut help remove sand from the kidneys. Due to this property, it is used as an additional therapeutic agent for urolithiasis.

For flatulence

Almond husks contain prebiotics necessary for the growth and reproduction of intestinal bacteria. If there is an imbalance in the intestinal microflora (abdominal pain, bloating, indigestion, flatulence), it is recommended to consume 30-35 nuts per day.

To improve digestive processes, it is better to eat soaked nuts. This will help the body cope with accumulated fat more easily. This property is provided by the enzyme lipase, which catalyzes the digestive process, helping the body absorb fat.

For the prevention of bedsores

Almond oil is used even in official medicine. It is used to wipe the skin of bedridden patients to prevent bedsores.

In cosmetology

In cosmetology, sweet almond oil, rich in vitamins A, B, and minerals, is most often used. It is also widely used in aromatherapy. The oil has regenerating, strengthening, moisturizing and nourishing properties. It is used in the production of soaps, shower gels, creams, lotions and many other cosmetics.

Almonds contain almost all the vitamins and minerals necessary to improve hair growth and strengthen it. Magnesium and zinc stimulate hair growth, vitamin E promotes strengthening, vitamin B maintains shine.

Rejuvenating scrub

To prepare the scrub you need:

• grated almonds – 2 tbsp;
• honey – 1 tbsp;
• lemon juice – ½ tsp.

Mix the components, after cleansing the skin, rub in circular movements for 1-2 minutes. Rinse it off.

Cleansing foam

This foam can successfully replace purchased products.

You need:

• almond and wheat germ oil - 1 tbsp each;
• distilled water – 4 tbsp;
• honey – 1 tsp;
• vitamin E – 1 ampoule;
• soap base – 50 ml.

Mix all the ingredients, melt the soap base first. Use as a regular cleanser.

Mask against hyperkeratosis

Hyperkeratosis is a skin disease characterized by excessive keratinization of the skin. The following mask will help fight it.

You need:

• almond oil – 5 tbsp;
• ground coffee – 1 tbsp;
• cinnamon – 1 tsp.

Massaging, apply the mixture to problem areas. Leave for 15 minutes. Rinse it off.

Therapeutic mask for scalp and hair

For scalp and hair, use a mixture of almond and olive oil (equal amounts). Apply the mixture along the entire length, cover with a shower cap. After an hour, wash it off.

In cooking

For centuries, almonds, with their characteristic aroma and taste, have added unusual notes to dishes and sweet delicacies.

Simple ways to enrich your diet with healthy nuts:

• Add almond butter to any dessert.
• Improve white yogurt by adding chopped almonds and dried fruits.
• Make a healthy curry with vegetable gravy and nut pieces.
• Add a little almond butter to your morning smoothie to improve its taste and increase its protein content.
• Add grated nuts to baking flour.
• Combining nuts and apples makes for a surprisingly simple energy snack.
• Prepare a delicious rice salad with almonds, fresh peas and currants.
• Add chopped nuts to chicken salad.

Almond milk

Do you like plant-based milk or try to avoid cow's milk? In this case, you will appreciate the almond drink recipe.

To prepare you need:

• 100 g sweet almonds;
• 1 liter of water;
• 1 tsp honey

Grate the nut, add warm water, leave to brew for 2-3 hours. Mix in a blender, strain, sweeten with honey. Milk can be drunk slightly warm. But remember: excessive heat destroys enzymes!

Important! The remaining almond pulp can be used to make desserts.

Almond jam

Jam with the addition of almonds is not only tasty, but also very healthy. You can add the product to apricot, cherry or strawberry jam at the rate of 200 g per liter jar. Before combining the nuts with the berry mixture, you should boil them in water for 10 minutes; there is no need to chop them.

To prepare this delicacy, you can take dried or raw almonds. For the first option, the heat treatment time can be reduced to 5 minutes. The finished mixture is rolled into jars according to the usual principle and stored in a cool place.

Simple dietary recipes with almonds

You can prepare many healthy dietary dishes using almonds. This nut not only saturates the body with useful substances and quickly satisfies the feeling of hunger, but also significantly improves the taste of dishes.

Important: Only sweet almonds can be used for food. Bitter varieties should not be eaten or added to dishes.

You can make diet muffins, cookies or pies from almond flour. To prepare the flour, the nuts are fried in a frying pan and then ground in a coffee grinder.

Smoothie

A healthy and nutritious drink is prepared based on almond milk, avocado and kiwi. Consuming such a smoothie will replenish the body with fatty acids and other valuable substances.

To prepare it you will need:

• 2 pcs. - kiwi.
• 2 pcs. – avocado.
• 70 g – almonds.
• 1 tbsp. spoon - honey.
• 400 ml – water.
• Vanilla, cinnamon.

First you need to prepare the almond milk. To do this, pour boiling water over the nuts and leave for 15 minutes. Then the water is drained, the skins are removed from the kernels, and they are crushed in a blender to a puree. Then add vanilla, cinnamon and water, and mix the composition thoroughly. After straining it, you will get almond milk.

Next, you need to load the peeled and chopped fruits into the blender bowl, add honey with almond milk and a few ice cubes, and blend everything until smooth.

Baked pear

Pear baked with almonds is prepared as follows:

• 2 pcs. - pears.
• 125 g – ricotta cheese.
• 30 g – black currants.
• 1 teaspoon – date syrup.
• 2 teaspoons – honey.
• 10 pieces. – unroasted almonds.

Pears should be washed, cut in half and cleared of pulp and seeds. The ricotta is then mixed with date syrup and berries, and the resulting mixture is stuffed into pears.

Sprinkle them liberally with chopped almonds on top and then place them in the oven for 15 minutes. The dish is baked at a temperature of 180˚C. Before serving, sprinkle with ground almonds and drizzle with 1/4 cup of date syrup.

Curd dessert

To prepare a delicious dietary dessert, you will need:

• 200 g – low-fat cottage cheese.
• 150 g – fresh frozen raspberries.
• 20 g – almonds.
• 1 PC. - banana.

This dessert is quick and easy to prepare. To do this, you will need to mash the frozen raspberries with a fork and cut the banana into rings. The cottage cheese is transferred into a deep container along with banana and raspberries, and these ingredients are beaten with a mixer.

The resulting mass is placed into cups and generously sprinkled with almonds on top.