Are almonds bad for you?
This model will focus on
the question ‘Are almonds bad for you?’ and other queries associated with the
subject. We will also discuss the negative effects of consuming too many
almonds.
Are almonds bad for you?
Yes. Almonds can be bad
for you.
Of course, almonds are
powerhouses of nutrients and possess numerous health benefits. Almonds are well
known for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancers, controlling
diabetes and cholesterol levels, curing spasms and pain, boosting bone health, and
being a good source of vitamins, predominantly vitamin E, and healthy fat.
But, Yes! There are
downsides of consuming almonds in excess. “Excess of everything is opposed by
nature.” Let’s have a quick look at potential risks associated with the consumption
of almonds.
What are the downsides of
consuming almonds?
Allergic conditions
Individuals with ‘tree
nut allergy should avoid almonds beyond question and without any doubt.
Dominant protein in
almonds, ‘AMP or amandin,’ is identified as the significant allergen
responsible. This condition is not for everyone but for individuals who are
allergic to tree nuts.
General symptoms are
itchiness in the mouth, throat and inflammation of the tongue, mouth, and lips.
Severe conditions show nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, impaired voice,
raised red bumps on the skin (hives - urticaria), and confusions.
Decreased nutrient absorption
Apart from being a good
source of fiber, proteins, fat, minerals, and vitamin E, almonds have
anti-nutritional factors that hinder the absorption of certain nutrients by the
human body. The nutrient that gets affected differs based on the individual
anti-nutritional factors.
Different treatments can
reduce the anti-nutritional factors present in food. They are soaking in water
overnight, blanching (a treatment involving immersing fresh foods in boiling
water or steam for a limited time followed by immediate cooling in cold water),
removing the outer covering, cooking, and fermentation.
Soaking in water and
blanching treatments are widely practiced for making almond milk, a well-liked
non-dairy alternative worldwide, especially by vegans.
Digestive problems
Since the outer covering
of almonds is fibrous, excessive consumption of almonds can cause gas
production in the abdomen and lead to flatulence.
The human body lacks the
digestive enzymes for digesting dietary fiber. It helps in bulking the stool
and allows smooth passage through the colon. Besides these benefits, too much
fiber intake can cause bloating and an uneasy stomach.
Moreover, the gastric
emptying rate tends to get reduced, leading to a high satiety value of fiber.
So that stomach discomfort can occur.
Vitamin E overdose
This condition can
hardly be achieved by consuming almonds themselves. But if you are on an excess
of vitamin E supplements, consuming excessive quantities of almonds can cause
vitamin E overdose symptoms, which are blood-thinning and interference with the
blood clotting mechanism leading to excessive bleeding after an injury.
Kidney problems
High levels of Calcium
oxalate in the body lead to kidney stones. Oxalates are present in almonds, and
the form of oxalates present in almonds is high in bioavailability. When
almonds are consumed in excessive amounts, there is a tendency for stone
formation and thereby causing kidney failure.
Increasing toxins within the body
Almonds can bring about
cyanide poisoning, the same as in cassava. Bitter almonds stand at the top in
containing increased levels of hydrogen cyanide, followed by sweet almonds. For
more detailed guidance, please click the link here.
Cyanide poisoning can
result in breathing problems, choking and nervous system disorders.
What is the ideal daily portion
recommended for almonds?
20 - 23 almonds a day
are recommended for consumption for an individual to be within the safe limits.
Consumption of almonds should be limited to the recommended levels, or else
negative health effects can fall out. Consumption of almonds in moderation,
just like every other food item, is the best way out.
Conclusion
This model has focused
on the question ‘Are almonds bad for you?’ and other queries associated with
the subject. We have also discussed the negative effects of consuming too many
almonds.
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269468#risks
https://www.onlymyhealth.com/do-not-overdose-almonds-as-it-can-have-these-8-side-effects-1617191927#:~:text=Almonds%20are%20very%20healthy%2C%20but,cause%20toxicity%20in%20your%20body.
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