Raw Almonds and Health

Almonds are a popular nut produced primarily in California. The U.S. production of almonds is worth about $2 billion, according to the University of California, Davis. Almonds are the second-most common fruit and nut food produced in the U.S. after grapes. The almond's popularity may be partially because of the variety of health benefits it provides.

Nutritional Content

The almond is a nutrient-dense food. A 1 oz. serving of almonds provides 6 g protein, 3.5 g fiber, 1 mg iron, 137 mg phosphorus, 8.8 g monounsaturated fatty acids and only 1 g saturated fat and 163 calories. Consuming high-fiber foods is important. The average American ingests only 14 g fiber daily, and the FDA recommends eating foods that provide at least 25 g fiber per day.

Cardiovascular Health

Almonds provide monounsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and plant sterols that provide cardiovascular benefits. The beneficial compounds in almonds lower LDL cholesterol levels, decrease platelet aggregation and improve the health of the arterial wall lining. The Food and Drug Administration recommends eating 1.5 oz. nuts per day to improve cardiovascular health.

Diabetes

The almond improves the body's insulin sensitivity, according to a 2010 study by Loma Linda University's School of Public Health. The study's participants ingested an amount of almonds equivalent to 20 percent of their daily caloric intake daily for 16 weeks, or 2.5 oz. for a 2,000 diet. The almonds increased their insulin sensitivity, helping prevent pre-diabetic and diabetic conditions.

Prebiotic

Consuming almonds increases the body's levels of beneficial bacteria, according to a 2008 study by the Institute of Food Research. The lipids in almonds provide a prebiotic effect by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, in the intestines. Probiotics improve the immune response and digestive system function.