As far as healthy snacks go, almonds rank near the top of fat-fighting foods, a handful of new scientific studies suggest.
Six almond-related research papers are slated for presentation next week at a meeting of the American Society of Nutrition in San Diego.
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Among the key findings to be presented at a scientific session – entitled "Are Almonds an Optimal Snack?" – are studies showing snacking on almonds can cut the risks of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and belly fat.
"Presenting new research to this audience of scientists and health professionals is critical to turning the findings into practical application and recommendations, " said Karen Lapsley, M.D., chief science 0fficer for the Almond Board of California. "These results help to advance the evolution of our understanding of almonds' beneficial effects as part of a healthy diet."
Among the studies to be presented:
- New research led by Carol O'Neil, M.D., of Louisiana State University, showing people who eat almond tend to have more nutritious diets and better health overall, compared to those who don't. The findings are based on an analysis of 24,808 adults.
- An analysis by Richard Mattes, M.D., from Purdue University who found people who eat 1.5 ounces of dry-roasted, lightly salted almonds daily had better appetite control and healthier blood sugar levels, as well as higher vitamin E and monounsaturated fat intake, than those who don't. The study, which tracked 137 adult at risk for Type 2 diabetes, also found that snacking almonds daily helped participants maintain healthy weight levels.
- A study by Penny-Kris Etherton, M.D., from Pennsylvania State University found eating a handful of almonds a day helped 52 adults with high cholesterols lose belly fat, reducing their risk for metabolic and cardiovascular problems.
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