Almond butter is a tasty and easy way to reap the health benefits of this nutritious member of the nut family. Almonds hold healthful properties themselves and, when compared to peanut butter, almond butter offers even more advantages.
Almond Butter Processing
Almond butter is an unprocessed food that is prepared without using additives or preservatives, just one reason it is a healthy choice.
Health Benefits
Almond butter is beneficial in reducing heart disease and cholesterol through the high monounsaturated fats in the almonds, according to physician Kristie Leong, in an article on HealthMad.com entitled, "The Phenomenal Health Benefits of Almond Butter." Almonds are also rich in antioxidants and contain important vitamins and minerals including vitamin E, vitamin B2, magnesium and calcium.
For Weight Control
Dr. Leong promotes almond butter to help with weight management. Leong says it benefits the body because it is high in fiber and protein in addition to having monounsaturated fats. It also helps to regulate blood sugar.
For Allergy Sufferers
Almond butter is a beneficial substitute for peanut butter for those who suffer from peanut allergies, as it typically can be tolerated by most people. Almonds and peanuts are in separate food families, with almonds being in the nut family and peanuts being legumes.
To Reduce Prostate Enlargement
Nutritionist Greg Hottinger, who penned the book, "The Best Natural Foods on the Market Today," writes that prostate problems are reduced by adding almond butter to the diet. Almonds have plant sterols, which can lessen prostate enlargement with only 2 teaspoons of almond butter daily.
To Lower Blood Pressure
Calcium, potassium and magnesium are three minerals that have a strong presence in the make-up of almond butter. These minerals benefit the body by helping to lower blood pressure, wirtes Dr. Leong.
