Health Nut: Even Squirrels Love Almonds

Hi!

My name is Vatsala Goyal, and I’m writing new column this semester called “Health Nut.” You may recognize me from last semester when I did the “Foodie Fun Facts” column. Hope you all enjoy this new column, full of tips, recipes, and advice on how to stay healthy and happy.

To kick off the semester, I’ll take the “nut” out of “Health Nut.” It’s time to talk about almonds! Let’s be honest here—not many people like this particular nut. I’m not such a big fan of it either, but even I must admit that almonds, especially soaked almonds, are the epitome of a super-food.

Not many people know about soaked almonds. Essentially, the process includes soaking almonds in a small bowl of water overnight, and then peeling them the next morning and eating them. It’s probably best to stick to 4-5 almonds a day—since the nut is so rich in nutrients, too much can be bad.

What are soaked almonds good for? You name it, and it’s probably on the list. Better digestion, weight loss, better skin, improved cardiovascular health, and lowered stress levels are just a few effects of eating almonds every day.

Picture from thepipercenter.com

If you hate eating almonds just by themselves, don’t worry. I personally don’t enjoy the flavor, either. Here are some ways you can incorporate almonds into your everyday snacks in order to enjoy them and receive all the nutrients:

-Blend them into a fruit smoothie.
-Eat them along with your favorite dessert
-Dip them in nutella or peanut butter

I hope you all start enjoying almonds! Almonds are known to increase brainpower as well. You know, for all you Penn nerds out there who need a solid reason to hop on the almond train. Just make sure the campus squirrels stay out of your stash. Otherwise…

Picture from dailyhaha.com

Have a great week, and see you next time!

-Vatsala