Almond Flour
Almond flour is made from blanched whole almonds and is often used for low carb and gluten free cooking.It contains significant amounts of beneficial nutrients such as monounsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamins like riboflavin, and trace minerals such as magnesium.
5 Health Benefits of Almond Flour
1. Boosts Heart Health
More than 65 percent of the fat in almond flour is monounsaturated, which is excellent for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and good overall heart health. Additionally, scientists find that almond consumption can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by keeping blood vessels healthy.Study subjects consumed 50 grams of almonds daily for a month, and the results were highly positive for their heart health. Whether you’re eating whole almonds, almond flour or almond meal, this research out of the U.K. shows that eating almonds significantly increases the level of antioxidants in the bloodstream, improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. All of these health markers are key to a properly functioning heart and can reduce the likelihood of heart disease.
2. Helps Discourage Cancer Formation
Researchers at the University of California conducted a study to evaluate the effect of almonds and almond meal on colon cancer cells. They found that whole almonds and almond fractions reduce aberrant crypt foci in an animal model of colon cancer. Aberrant crypt foci are clusters of abnormal tube-like glands in the lining of the colon and rectum and are some of the earliest colon changes that may lead to colon cancer.According to the study’s authors, the results suggest that almond consumption can decrease the risk of colon cancer and almonds’ high healthy fat content is related to its anticancer ability. This research shows why almonds are among the best cancer-fighting foods around.