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Indian Dietetic Association, Bengal Chapter, holds session on benefits of almonds

With an aim to engage with health professionals, the Indian Dietetic Association, Bengal Chapter, and the Almond Board of California hosted ...


With an aim to engage with health professionals, the Indian Dietetic Association, Bengal Chapter, and the Almond Board of California hosted a session on the benefits of the consumption of almonds. According to two studies funded by the Almond Board of California, almonds play a vital role in maintaining blood sugar, daily calorie Intake, gut microbiota functionality, muscle recovery, and reducing fatigue from exercise. During the session, Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – Dietetics, Max Healthcare emphasized the findings of the research studies. The session was moderated by Malabika Datta, Head Dietitian, B.M. Birla Heart Research Centre and Convener, IDA Bengal Chapter.

A recent study by Professor Kevin Whelan from King’s College London investigated how gut microbes break down almonds to produce butyrate, a specific microbiota product associated with several health benefits. Researchers explored the prebiotic effect of almonds and the potential impact almond processing had on this effect in a free-living, 4-week, 3-arm, parallel-design randomized controlled trial. Eighty-seven healthy adults participated.

The study found that the participants who consumed almonds experienced significant increases in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid found in the colon that helps promote gut health and increased stool frequency. Almonds contain dietary fiber which has been shown to increase butyrate concentrations in the guts of healthy adults, as a result of which, almonds were well tolerated and did not lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, which indicates almond consumption may be a way to increase fiber without causing any adverse effects.

Commenting on the study, Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – Dietetics, Max Healthcare, Delhi said, "A healthy gut is crucial for maintaining a good immune system and overall wellbeing. Various factors can lead to an imbalance in the gut, which can increase bad bacteria compared to good bacteria. This can have several harmful implications on one's health. The study indicates almond consumption may be a way to increase fiber which is suggestive of positive alterations to microbiota functionality thereby having the potential to influence human health positively.”

 

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