This Nut Packs Major Metabolic Health Benefits, Study Finds
What if your midafternoon snack could do more than just hold you over until dinner?
A clinical trial revealed that a simple swap, a daily snack of almonds, had a measurable impact on key metabolic health markers.
The Goal of the Study
The study tracked 77 adults diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, a condition defined by at least three of the following: high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excess abdominal fat, low HDL cholesterol, or high triglycerides.
Participants were randomly assigned to one of two snack groups.
A Point for Team Almond
After 12 weeks, the almond group began to pull ahead in several key health markers.
Compared to the control group, the almond snackers showed measurable health benefits:
Lower Total and LDL Cholesterol
A reduction in these levels may support long-term cardiovascular health.
Reduced Waist Circumference
This is particularly meaningful in metabolic syndrome, where belly fat plays a central role in disease progression.
Improved Gut Health
Biomarkers of intestinal inflammation (specifically calprotectin and myeloperoxidase) dropped significantly in people who had elevated levels to begin with.
Boosted Vitamin E Status
Just 1 ounce of almonds delivers nearly 50% of your daily needs.
Better Intake of Key Nutrients
Almonds naturally provide magnesium, fiber, copper, biotin, and unsaturated fats.
The Takeaway
This study adds to the growing body of evidence that small, consistent changes, like a smarter snack, can move the needle on health in meaningful ways.
Not sure how to add them in? Here are a few ideas:
This sheet pan almond-crusted tilapia & veggies is packed with nutrients
These Mediterranean mixed nuts are the perfect afternoon snack
Craving something sweet? Try these no-bake almond butter bars
1 Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0271531725000636?via=ihub
Source: Link
