13th August 2019, India: That time of the year has come, when everyone in India realizes just how important our younger or older brothers are. Whether it’s for the promise of care, the unwavering support, the unsaid vow to always protect, for the auspicious shagun ka lifafa, or even for the delicious sweets – for many of us, Rakshabandhan is more than just the mere act of tying a rakhi on our brother’s wrists.
While traditionally, it is the brother who’s supposed to share presents with his sister, along with a promise of always shielding her from adversity, over time, the festival has become a celebration of the bond siblings share, and a prominent moment that many Indians cherish. As families across India prepare for the festivities, and gifts are on everyone’s mind, here’s why Almonds should definitely be on your list of presents for your brother or sister:
Almonds showcase love and care
Choosing the perfect gift for your sibling can be confusing, and trying to find something that is easy to incorporate into his/her lifestyle might be difficult. If you are looking for a tasty and nutrient rich gift, almonds are a good choice. Almonds are a source of nutrients such as vitamin E, dietary fiber, protein amongst others; they are easy and light to carry, making them a great gift for your sibling.
Take care of their heart
Maintaining a healthy heart is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle. But taking care of your heart’s health can be a challenge. Almonds heart you! Studies prove that consuming a handful of almonds everyday may help in maintaining the heart health of your loved ones.
“Almonds are one of the easiest foods to include in your diet; you could eat a handful before you start your day, enjoy some as an evening tea time snack, or even add them to your food preparation. In addition, as per a recent research, inclusion of 45 grams of almonds in your everyday diet can help in the reduction LDL (bad cholesterol) and alleviate conditions like dyslipidemia, linked to the same. Regular consumption of almonds, when replaced with other carbohydrate rich snacks, can effectively help in reducing LDL and total cholesterol, thus making you healthier in the long run1.” Said Sheela Krishnaswamy, Nutrition and Wellness Consultant.
Help in keeping their weight under control
Almonds are known to have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness, and hence are a good option to help keep hunger at bay. Consuming these nuts will leave your brother/sister feeling full, and may dissuade him/her from reaching for unhealthy snacks thus helping in maintain their weight goals.
Madhuri Ruia, Pilates Expert and Diet & Nutrition Consultant, said “Fruits and nuts like almonds are a healthy snacking choice, especially for people who are trying to lose or maintain their weight. As per a recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, participants who consumed 43 gram of dry, roasted, lightly salted almonds every day experienced reduced hunger and improved dietary vitamin E and monounsaturated (“good”) fat intake without increasing body weight2.”
Add a burst of energy to their lives
Almonds are a rich source of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), a vitamin known for its role in energy release from food. Regional Head-Dietetics, Max Healthcare – Delhi, Ritika Samaddar said, “Traditionally, during festivals and special occasions, almonds have been perceived as an auspicious gift. Gifting almonds is gifting good health. It embodies the care and concern of the gift giver. Gifts like almonds, will not only serve as a nutritious and delicious snack, but the gesture itself is representative of your interest in his/her overall health.”
So do not think twice, and gift your loved ones the blessing of almonds to spread love and good health, this Rakshabandhan.