5 Reasons Why Almonds are the Perfect Snack

Young and busy can still be fit and fabulous. My days are filled with public relations meetings, parties, luncheons, and photo shoots, which makes it important to perfect my on-the-go routine. I have to be a pro at traveling prepared and looking great doing it. I detail my days the night before down to what to carry in my purse. California Almonds, the sponsor of this post partnered with me to share what I’ve learned.

I’ll be the first to admit, eating healthily all the time can be challenging. I’m guilty of inconsistency and lack of motivation when my days are busy. But we all are from time to time, right!?

The important thing to remember is that we all have moments where we want that dozen-and-one-donut-sitting and when we’re too busy for food prep. But if you’re going to resist the temptation, other than on your birthday, it’s important to keep foods around you that make you feel great.

One of my favorite healthy snacks is almonds–which are local for me since California has over 1,000,000 acres dedicated to these trees (and much of the US bee population are within those acres, but I digress). They keep up my energy and keep my health routine on track no matter what my day throws at me.

Morning Routine

My mornings start out with a large glass of lemon water, some quiet time, and a handful of almonds. I follow this up with my workout and a homemade latte–usually with my favorite nut milk, some cinnamon, and a little coconut oil for a rich flavor and a ton of energy.

Meetings

This particular day I had three meetings back-to-back and didn’t have time to stop for lunch. Thankfully I had almonds in my purse, a staple for me that’s as important as my lipstick. They are an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese. Just a handful can curb my appetite for hours.

I love my little container because I can count how many in my tin and make sure I’ve portioned the right amount for maximized benefits. My tin contains just the right amount for two snacks.

Photoshoot

After having lunch and then touching up my makeup, I was ready to do a little street style with my photographer. We totally got the shot and I still had a couple of my favorite nuts left in my travel container, so I finished them to get me through the mid-afternoon.

Dinner and crash!

On busy days, I don’t need much help from anything when falling asleep, aside from a good book and a pillow. When I do need a little help, this nut provide a nice nightcap because of the magnesium. Sometimes I dip them in dark chocolate for a special treat.

P.S.

As you probably know, I heart emoji. I tried finding an almond emoji for this post but was shocked to learn that they don’t have their own emoji. This needs to change! And it’s much harder to get an emoji than you’d think. Don’t they deserve special graphics as avocados do? Please join me in signing the petition here to help get an Emoji.

5 Reasons Why Almonds are the Perfect Snack for the Busy Boss Babe:

1. Almonds are Great for on-the-go snacking

This sweet nut is excellent source of Vitamin E and magnesium. Just a handful (about 1/4 cup/ 5 ounces of almonds) between meals will do the trick and daily productivity should improve. Healthy snack ideas are few and far between, especially ones with a good dose of healthy fat. High levels of protein and fiber are a bonus! I will usually go for raw or blanched almonds over roasted, pumpkin seeds, peanut butter, or other tree nuts.

2. Almonds are Convenient

Easy to pack in your purse for an on-the-go snack, almonds hold you over until you have time to eat. Consuming almonds can help satisfy your cravings and make binge-eating less likely, which will help minimize weight gain, or outright help you lose weight. I’ve found these travel much better than packaged foods–especially when I’ve had to leave them in the California heat.

3. Almonds Have Nutrients that can help to regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure

They are a great source of magnesium, which helps to regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Minimizing these risk factors to your overall health are essential. No added sugar and gluten free is a plus as well! Some of my older friends go right to the source, and get their raw almonds straight from the almond trees. However, they do taste better a day or two after drying! This is great news for all of us who don’t have access to almond trees in our backyard. Not only do they travel well on the go, but they also travel well to the grocery store as long as they’re dried properly.

4. Almonds and the Moon Cycle

I have a fond memory of my sister giving me almonds like they were medicine for my cramps. From first-hand experience, I can tell you I still keep almonds around like a bottle of acetaminophen for my period. Side note: Almonds are the nut richest in Calcium. Though I can’t find a specific study (other than on myself) on this nut in particular for this purpose,

5. Almonds and Skincare

Your skin may reap the results of your regular almond snacking. They have half your daily needs for vitamin E with that naturally occuring almond oil and are a significant source of magnesium and riboflavin, too. If you are suffering from skin conditions including sensitive or flaky skin, this nut may help!

Special Thanks to California Almonds for sponsoring this post!