Today is National Almond Day! Did you know that the almond is not actually a nut? It’s true! What we commonly think of as a nut is technically the seed of the fruit of the almond tree. The almond tree bears fruits with stone like seeds within. This seed is what we refer to as the almond nut.
There are two types of almonds, sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are the type that are edible. They have an oval shape and a buttery taste. Bitter almonds are frequently used for food flavorings or in oils. They are otherwise inedible since they naturally contain toxic substances, such as hydrocyanic acid. These toxins are removed during the manufacturing of almond oil.
Almonds have many health benefit as well. Here are some to make go grab a handful!
•Helps develop and maintain brain health
•Helps maintain a healthy cholesterol level
•Regulates blood pressure.
•Reduces risk of heart disease.
•Improves skin health and complextion.
•Prevents osteoporosis.
•Reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
•Protects against diabetes.
Well if that isn’t enough to have you go out and grab a bag of almonds, how about they are simply delicious! Yes, eat them raw or roasted its a treat. There are tons of recipes incorporating these fantastic snacks. I found a few that I want to try below. What are your favorite almond recipes?
BANANA ALMOND SMOOTHIE WITH CHIA SEEDS
CRANBERRY & SMOKED ALMONDS QUINOA SALAD WITH BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE
Shana Was Here 