Almond flour (sometimes referred to as almond meal) is made from raw skinless blanched almonds that have been finely ground. Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free substitute in baking products such as cookies, cakes and pastries, and in other recipes that call for wheat flour. Almond flour should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for a longer shelf-life. Almond flour is nutrient rich and well-suited for carbohydrate-restricted diets.
Protein, Fat and Carbohydrate Content
A 1/4 cup serving of almond flour contains 160 calories, 6 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat (1 gram saturated fat) and 6 grams of carbohydrates, of which 3 grams are fiber.
Vitamin E
Almonds and almond products are an excellent source of alpha-tocopherol vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin that has been shown to aid in lowering cholesterol and reduce the risk of many common diseases including Alzheimer's, diabetes and heart disease. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin E is 15 milligrams per day, however most Americans fall short of this amount. A one-ounce serving of almond flour contains 35 percent of the RDA for vitamin E.
Calcium
Of all the varieties of nuts, almonds are the highest in calcium. Calcium is mineral vital in maintaining proper function and structure of the body. It aids in everything from building and maintaining healthy teeth and bones to regulating blood pressure. The RDA for calcium is approximately 1000 milligrams per day for adults. A one-ounce serving of almond flour contains 8 percent of the RDA for calcium.
Magnesium
Almonds are an excellent source of magnesium. Magnesium aids in the building and maintenance of bones and teeth, assists in the absorption of calcium and in maintaining proper muscle tone. The RDA for magnesium is between 300 and 400 milligrams per day for adults. A 1/4 cup serving of almond flour contains approximately 24 percent of the RDA for magnesium.
Copper
Almond flour is a good source of copper. Copper is an essential mineral that acts as an antioxidant, maintaining healthy function and integrity of bones and tissues, protects nerves and helps the body process iron efficiently. It also plays an essential role in the structure of many of the body's enzymes and in the production of energy. The RDA for copper is 2 milligrams per day. A 1/4 cup serving of almond flour contains 20 percent of the RDA for copper.
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