Mentioned in the Bible, almonds were already served to the Pharaohs of Egypt, but their exact origin is unknown.
It is speculated that are originated from China or Central Asia and that the explorers ate this fruit while they were traveling on the “Silk Road”, between Asia and the Mediterranean, planting the almond trees that flourishes along the Mediterranean basin, regions that are now Italy, Spain and Portugal.
The almond trees odyssey did not stop here and, with the Iberian expansion, reached the American continent where they currently flourish in famous areas as California.
A nut with tradition
SYMBOLISMS
The history of the almond was developed with history itself and therefore we find this dry fruit associated with religious, ethnic and social traditions, manifesting several meanings. Like the stick of Aaron, which gave off shoots, flowers and even almonds, and today is a symbol of divine approval. Romans threw almonds to the newlyweds for fertility, and nowadays almonds are served, covered in chocolate or sugar, on the occasion of Lent. Without forgetting that, in some regions of Portugal, the word “almonds” is synonymous with a gift given by the godfathers to the godchildren for Easter celebration.
Much more would have to be said, but let’s stick to the Swedish holiday tradition of rice pudding with an almond hidden in the interior, hoping to bring good luck every year to anyone who finds it.
Why should we consume almonds?
Almonds contain unsaturated fat, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health;
Almonds helps to reduce artery inflammation, lower cholesterol, increases HDL (good cholesterol) and helps prevent diabetes;
When eaten with skin, almonds stands out from the rest of the dried fruits due to the amount of fiber, presenting a greater laxative effect;
Almonds are rich in vitamins E and B (with antioxidant effects), magnesium (an important mineral to control blood pressure) and calcium (for bone strengthening);
Preferably, almonds should be consumed raw and with skin. We just need two three almonds per day to obtain all its benefits.
