The 6 amazing health benefits of almonds

Almond trees are native to Iran, but you’d never know it now. Almonds are edging out peanuts as the most widespread, accessible nut—at least in the U.S.—and there's a good reason for it. 

Almonds aren’t just flavorful and versatile, they’re also nutritious. Even a handful of almonds can help you reap some serious perks for your body. 

More than a hundred scientific studies have delved into the health benefits of almonds. You don’t have to do such heavy research as we've distilled some of their findings down for you. Here’s a quick look at what almonds can do for you.

6 Health Benefits of Almonds

#1: They're protein-rich

Almonds contain an impressive six grams of protein per ounce. There are about 24 almonds in an ounce, so each almond contains one-fourth gram of protein. That adds up fast. 

#2: They help you maintain healthy blood sugar and blood pressure levels

Almonds contain high levels of magnesium, a nutrient that can help you control your blood sugar. In fact, about a third of people with type 2 diabetes experience magnesium deficiency. 

An increase in magnesium (which you can achieve by eating almonds) reduces insulin resistance. Insulin is the hormone your body uses to convert blood sugar to fuel for your cells, so magnesium-rich almonds can help you keep your blood sugar levels balanced. 

Another perk: magnesium can help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels, too.

#3: They have lots of vitamin E and other antioxidants

Another thing almonds have in abundance? Antioxidants, including vitamin E. Antioxidants protect your cells against oxidative stress, which lowers your risk of cancer, minimizes inflammation, and even slows aging. 

Just so you know, most of the antioxidants in almonds are in their skin.

#4: They may reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Almonds contain quite a bit of fat, but most of it is monounsaturated (read: healthy). Of the 14 grams of fat you’ll find in an ounce of almonds, nine grams are monounsaturated. 

Studies have shown that moderated unsaturated fat intake through almonds can lower overall cholesterol levels. Another scientific review found that eating almonds can decrease your lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while maintaining HDL (good) cholesterol levels, tipping your overall cholesterol balance in the right direction.

#5: They can help you maintain healthy bones

When it comes to bone health, almonds pack a punch. They contain several key nutrients your bones need to stay strong, including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and manganese.

#6: They’re good for gut health

Scientists are currently exploring almonds as a prebiotic. Basically, that means almonds have the potential to increase the levels of healthy bacteria in your gut, supporting your digestion.  

See? Almonds are awesome. 

That’s why we’ve chosen to include them in two of our JOJO’s Chocolate flavors. JOJO's Original bars are sprinkled with a generous helping of almonds, pistachios, and cranberries. JOJO's Raspberry Dream bars are topped with a trio of raspberries, pistachios, and almonds. This is our way of helping you get the health benefits of almonds while enjoying some delicious, low-sugar dark chocolate. 

Dig in and enjoy!