All About Almonds

Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats that are found in olive oil. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) help get rid of belly fat as well.
Almonds are a very good source of vitamin E and manganese. They are also a very good source of magnesium, copper, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and phosphorus. These are all great for our health!
Almonds are a protein powerhouse! A quarter-cup contains 7.62 grams—more protein than the typical egg, which contains about 5.54 grams of protein.

Not only are they packed with great nutrients that our body needs, they also taste great and can be used in so many different ways!

• They're the perfect addition to your homemade trail mix!
• Perfect for on the go! Grab a small handful and the fiber in these nuts with keep you full for a while.
• Top your oatmeal or yogurt with some of these nutrient packed nuts.
• Take them to the movies! They're much healthier than buttery popcorn and candy, but you'll still have something to much on.
• Or how about making your own almond milk?
• Have some Apple and Almond Muesli!

What are some of your favorite ways to eat almonds? Feel free to leave a comment below! =)

Im Nuts about Peanut Butter

No, I don't like peanut butter. I love it. I'm nuts about peanut butter. I love it even more knowing that its good for me and that it has a lot of great health benefits as well.
I know a lot of people that are trying to lose weight mostly give up foods such as peanut butter because it is considered a "bad food" because it contains a lot of fat.

First of all, the fat that is in peanut butter is a healthy fat. It can actually help you lose weight. Second of all, over processed peanut butter with stupid chemicals is bad for you. Natural and organic peanut butter is good for you.

Peanuts are a very good source of monounsaturated fats, the type of fat that is emphasized in the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.

In addition to their monounsaturated fat content, peanuts feature an array of other nutrients that, in numerous studies, have been shown to promote heart health. Peanuts are good sources of vitamin E, niacin, folate, protein and manganese.

Not only do peanuts contain oleic acid, the healthful fat found in olive oil, but new research shows these tasty legumes are also as rich in antioxidants as many fruits.

People who eat nuts at least twice a week are much less likely to gain weight than those who almost never eat nuts. (source)

There are so many great ways to enjoy peanuts and peanut butter without feeling quilty. Here are some great (and healthy!) ways to include peanut butter in yours meals/snacks:

• Spread some peanut butter on a slice of whole wheat bread.
• Cut up some apples and carrots (or whatever you like!) and dip into peanut butter.
• Sprinkle a small handfull of peanuts in your cereal or yogurt.
• Bake some Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oat Bites
• Make your own Peanut Butter Protein Fudge