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Smart Snack: Almonds

February 26, 2013 by Lindsay 56 Comments

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Hi Friends!

Thanks to Blue Diamond for sponsoring this post. I think I might be developing an obsession with blog series! I’ve been wanting to start up this little series for a while now and I’m finally getting around to it. I get a lot of questions about snacks from my readers. What do I eat for a snack? What are some healthy snacks? What are some on-the-go snacks that I can keep in my bag?

So, I thought it would be fun to do a few spotlight posts on some of my favorite snacks! I’m starting with almonds for a few reasons:

  • They’re a staple in my pantry.
  • Hubby & I eat them every day.
  • They great for your heart.
  • February is National Heart Health month.

Heart Healthy Almonds

I’m also using this post as an opportunity to highlight one of my favorite companies: Blue Diamond Almonds.

Blue Diamond will actually be sponsoring my trip to Blend Retreat in May!!!! Yippee!!! More to come on that soon 🙂

If you know me, or have been reading my blog for a while now, you know that I’m pretty picky when it comes to the companies I work with. I don’t do a whole lot of sponsored posts and I turn down a lot of opportunities to work with companies simply because they don’t fit with what I believe/don’t fit with this blog.

All that being said, Blue Diamond is one company that I’m proud to work with! I love their products (heck- I buy them even when I’m not working with them) and I love all the people that represent them as a company.

Blue Diamond is a proud supporter of Heart Health month and is encouraging everyone to learn more about the importance of keeping your heart healthy!

———————–

So let’s talk about heart health for a minute. I’m sure most of you have heard that almonds are good for your health, and here I am telling you guys what a great snack they make…but do you know why?

BD_Can6oz_WN_New_FD

Here’s a little background:

The FDA approved the following claim in 2003:

“Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.”

What exactly does that mean? Not to get all science-y on you but here’s a brief review:

Cholesterol is made up of HDL and LDL, which need to be kept in balance. When LDL is too high, it builds up on cell walls and creates plaque, which can clog blood vessels. This can cut off blood supply to the heart, or plaque can break off and cause blood clots which can lead to heard attacks and strokes. By lowering the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood, you give the HDL a chance to clean up the excess LDL and prevent plaque from building up, thus reducing your risk for heart disease. Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., finding ways to decrease the risk is important.

See why almonds are a great addition to your everyday diet? If you’re still not convinced, here’s a few more benefits of almonds:

  • They’re high in monounsaturated fat
  • They’re a good source of fiber
  • They’re a good source of Vitamin E, Magnesium & Copper
  • They’re a good source of protein
  • They can help improve insulin sensitivity
  • They can help reduce inflammation

Bottom line: Almonds are a smart snack for more reasons than one.

However, there is one thing  you should keep in mind. Almonds are a fairly high calorie snack, so make sure you stick to the correct portion size! A serving is 1 oz. That equals about 23 whole almonds. In that serving, you’ll find about 160 calories, 14 grams of fat (only 1 of which is saturated), 6 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber.

BD_Bag16oz_WN_AHA

So we know why they’re good for you and how many you should eat…all that leaves is HOW you should eat them, right?

A few suggestions:

  • Raw and plain
  • In your trailmix
  • As an oatmeal topping
  • Mixed with yogurt
  • Ground into almond butter

Almonds are a heart healthy snack that can be eaten a variety of ways. Here are few ideas!

Let’s chat: Do you like almonds? What’s your favorite way to eat them?

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

 

 **This post was sponsored by Blue Diamond. All thoughts and opinions are my own**

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Filed Under: Snack, Sponsored

About Lindsay

Lindsay Livingston is a Registered Dietitian and new mom from Columbus, Ohio. On her blog, she shares simple, healthy recipes, nutrition tips, workouts and snapshots of her life. Follow her on Twitter @LeanGrnBeanBlog and Instagram @TheLeanGreenBean and be sure to subscribe via RSS or email so you never miss a post!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Avery @ Southern Belle Living Well says

    February 26, 2013 at 12:43 AM

    I wish I loved almonds as much as you, but honestly I’m just not all that into them. Does almond butter count? I love almonds in creamy form, but eating them whole just doesn’t really apple to me. Maybe it’s the texture?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:14 PM

      almond butter def counts! or chopping them up and putting them in bars and stuff!

      Reply
  2. Michelle @ Eat Move Balance says

    February 26, 2013 at 5:10 AM

    I absolutely love almonds and eat them almost every day with an apple for an afternoon snack! And almond butter? Heavenly!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:13 PM

      i agree. delish snack!

      Reply
  3. Hollie says

    February 26, 2013 at 6:15 AM

    We have our office stocked with nuts so the best part is…snacking healthy and not having to pay for them. It’s great working at a health center LOL! 😉 I love this series too!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:13 PM

      that is awesome!! lucky girl!

      Reply
  4. Glenneth says

    February 26, 2013 at 6:48 AM

    almonds are my absolute favorite go to snack. i keep them in my desk drawer at work, at home, and usually carry a few with me in my purse!

    Reply
  5. Linz@ Itz Linz says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:02 AM

    Love almonds! Almond butter is definitely my favorite but soaking almonds is also super tasty!

    Reply
  6. Madeline @ Food Fitness and Family says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:11 AM

    I SO wish I wasn’t allergic 🙁 Almonds would make such a great addition to my snack attacks 😉

    Reply
  7. Liz @ The Lemon Bowl says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:15 AM

    Love blue diamond!!

    Reply
  8. The Candid RD says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:20 AM

    Sad to say, but I typically buy Blue Diamond almond in the form of milk! ha! So, I’m missing he fiber, but I am getting the magnesium and vitamin E for sure 🙂 I typically buy my almonds in bulk to save some money, or Emerald’s cocoa roasted almonds, they are so addicting. But the blue Diamond Almond Milk is my favorite! I’ll have to post a heart on Instagram.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:12 PM

      do it!! such an easy contest to enter!

      Reply
  9. Sara @ fitcupcaker says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:37 AM

    I love almonds. I usually keep some at work in my mailbox or locker if I run out of other food, so I make good choices 🙂 I love them because they are full of fiber and protein like you said! I like just eating them plain or chopping them up and adding them to protein balls!

    Reply
  10. Anne says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:42 AM

    While I like to vary my snacks, I always end up packing almonds for my snack maybe four times a week because, they’re yummy, and SO quick and easy to pack!

    Reply
  11. lindsay says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:56 AM

    my favorite brand! YAY! I love the cocoa ones with sea salt or the jalapeno, YUM! Congrats LINZ!

    Reply
  12. Kierston says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:31 AM

    Banana, Almond, Chocolate Chip Drizzle….holy moly!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:11 PM

      for.the.win! YUM!

      Reply
  13. Lindsay's List says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:36 AM

    So you’re telling me that you’ll bring me some almonds to Blend??? 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:11 PM

      duh!!!! i’ll bring lots!

      Reply
  14. Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:49 AM

    Congrats on the sponsorship!!!

    I love almonds. Today I’m having them in my salmon salad with some blackberries!

    Reply
  15. Millie Jones says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:54 AM

    I love, love, love almonds! I usually eat them every day as well. My favorite way is probably raw plain almonds. They have such great flavor just by them self. I also love putting them in bars I make or blending them up into yummy almond butters!!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:10 PM

      yes! homemade almond butter is the best!

      Reply
  16. Emily @ FitMamaInTheCity says

    February 26, 2013 at 10:27 AM

    I did not know all of that! We don;’t eat much in the way of nuts, though we really should. I do love the almond slivers in salads though

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:10 PM

      i agree! they make a great salad topper!

      Reply
  17. Lauren says

    February 26, 2013 at 10:57 AM

    LOVE the blue diamond coconut flavored ones or the cocoa roasted ones. Always have it as a snack each day!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:08 PM

      cocoa roasted is the best!

      Reply
  18. Julie says

    February 26, 2013 at 11:05 AM

    I love the toasted coconut flavor they have!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:08 PM

      oooh not a coconut fan but they have SO many good flavors!

      Reply
  19. Moni Meals & Fitness says

    February 26, 2013 at 11:10 AM

    Hi Lindsay!

    What a fun post. I am super craving some almonds right now! Great site and nice to be in touch. Moni xx

    Will for sure being on Intstagram for all the fun.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:07 PM

      awesome! thanks for reading!

      Reply
  20. Christine @ Love, Life, Surf says

    February 26, 2013 at 11:10 AM

    Yay!! So excited for you!! Blue Diamond Almonds is a great company to work with. Can’t wait to see you in May!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:07 PM

      so excited to meet you!!!

      Reply
  21. Melissa @ Treats With a Twist says

    February 26, 2013 at 11:23 AM

    Congratulations girl!! I’m so excited for you!!
    Almonds are my snack of choice too!

    Reply
  22. Haley @ fullnfit says

    February 26, 2013 at 12:47 PM

    almonds rock! i need to be careful though because they are super easy to keep taking handfuls of and popping in my mouth. 😉

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:06 PM

      haha for sure! i have to portion them out ahead of time!

      Reply
  23. Tanya says

    February 26, 2013 at 12:52 PM

    I love almonds! I always make my own trail mix for the kids and put almonds in it. They love them too.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:06 PM

      yes! homemade trailmix is the best!

      Reply
  24. GiGi Eats Celebrities says

    February 26, 2013 at 1:29 PM

    Almonds really are a GRREAT snack but lately I have been meeting more and more people who cannot eat them because of allergies!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:06 PM

      i know, i’ve been hearing that a lot too!

      Reply
  25. Lisa @ RunWiki says

    February 26, 2013 at 4:14 PM

    My family and I love Blue Diamond almonds and use them for more than just eating out of the bag! LOVE them

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:06 PM

      woot woot!

      Reply
  26. Jody - Fit at 55 says

    February 26, 2013 at 5:51 PM

    LOVE almonds!!!! I have been seeing the Instagram pics & enjoying them!!! 🙂

    Reply
  27. E says

    February 26, 2013 at 6:09 PM

    Great post about one of my favorite nuts! I always keep almonds on hand. I love to make my own almond butter and even almond milk!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:05 PM

      i’ve been wanting to try homemade almond milk too!

      Reply
  28. Nicole @ Fruit 'N' Fitness says

    February 26, 2013 at 6:39 PM

    I love almonds! I always have some in my purse/backpack/pantry for healthy snacking. I love dipping almonds in chocolate peanut butter for a special sweet treat 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:05 PM

      my favorite is puppy chow almonds!

      Reply
  29. Erin @ Girl Gone Veggie says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:04 PM

    What an awesome blog sponsor! They’re a great company. I need to work on pitching to companies for trip sponsorships. I love nuts but am trying to figure out what is causing my IBS and am a little worried raw nuts might be a culprit. 🙁

    [WORDPRESS HASHCASH] The poster sent us ‘0 which is not a hashcash value.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:04 PM

      oh no! hope you get it figured out!

      Reply
  30. Erin @ Girl Gone Veggie says

    February 26, 2013 at 7:27 PM

    Ah I think my comment got eaten. But congrats on an amazing partnership! Blue Diamond is a great brand! I need to start pitching companies for conference sponsorships, I get so scared.

    Reply
  31. Alison @ racingtales says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:10 PM

    I’m not a huge nut lover. For years, I didn’t eat nuts or anything with nuts in it. Then I discovered almonds. They’re so different from other nuts! Now I put them on my salad, in my smoothies, protein bites, cookies, everything! And I love almond milk! Just read an Outside magazine list of 6 superfoods for athletes – almonds were on the list!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:04 PM

      yay!! love it!

      Reply
  32. Brittany @ Delights and Delectables says

    February 26, 2013 at 8:11 PM

    Congrats on the sponsorship girl!! I love me some almonds… I think I should buy stock in Blue Diamond! lol

    Reply
  33. Katie says

    February 27, 2013 at 5:53 AM

    Almonds are my favorite snack too! And Blue Diamond is hands down the best brand out there. They have amazing flavor choices. Some of my favorites are Habanero BBQ, Wasabi, Lime N’ Chili, and Honey Dijon. I have a hard time sticking to the 1 oz serving size. I could almost eat a whole tin in one sitting. I’ve been slightly afraid I might actually turn into an almond.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 28, 2013 at 9:02 PM

      haha….they do have SO many flavors! i love it!

      Reply
  34. Stacey Jennings says

    March 2, 2013 at 9:32 PM

    I eat almonds whenever I need some quick energy or even just a quick snack! They taste great and are very healthy! Also a great source of protein!

    I also love the flavour choices as well ^^

    Reply
  35. Health n Fitness Care says

    March 4, 2013 at 1:43 PM

    Almonds are truely nutritious and good for health and heart. Nice write up…..loved it!!

    Reply

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I'm a Registered Dietitian and mom of three from Columbus, Ohio. I use this blog to share simple, healthy recipes, nutrition tips, and an honest glimpse of motherhood!

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