Almonds are an ancient food that have been written about in historical texts, including the Bible. The almond, which we think of as a nut, is technically the seed of the fruit of the almond tree, a medium-size tree that bears fragrant pink and white flowers. Like its cousins, the peach, cherry, and apricot trees, the almond tree bears fruits with stone-like seeds (or pits) within. The seed of the almond fruit is what we refer to as the almond nut.

Raw almonds are rich in oils. About 93% of those oils are unsaturated fatty acids. In addition, about 72% of this unsaturated fatty acid content is oleic acid, the same heart-healthy monounsaturated fat found in olive oil. Studies have shown that oleic acid promotes good cardiovascular health. Studies have also shown that monounsaturated fat, when added to a low-fat diet, can help to reduce high triglyceride levels.

New research on raw almonds adds to the growing evidence that eating whole foods is the best way to promote optimum health and whole raw almonds (with the skin) provide the most heart healthy benefits. This is because the flavonoids found in almond skins team up with the vitamin E found in their meat to more than double the antioxidant punch either delivers when administered separately. Twenty potent antioxidant flavonoids have been identified in the skins of raw almond, some of which are well known as major contributors to the health benefits derived from other foods, such as the catechins found in cocoa and green tea, and naringenin, which is found in grapefruit.

Raw almonds are among the richest sources of vitamin E in the diet. And raw almonds are a very good source of several dietary trace minerals: magnesium, copper, manganese, and phosphorus.

Raw almonds appear to decrease after-meal rises in blood sugar, and they also provide antioxidants to mop up the smaller amounts of free radicals that still result. Further research shows that eating raw almonds along with a high glycemic index food significantly lowers the glycemic index of the meal and lessens the rise in blood sugar after eating. Lessening after-meal surges in blood sugar helps protect against diabetes and cardiovascular disease, most likely by lessening the increase in cholesterol-damaging free radicals that accompanies large elevations in blood sugar. This is one reason why low glycemic index diets result in lower risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Ambiance™ C o n f e c t i o n s uses only the highest quality almonds available. Our almonds are certified organic by A Bee Organic (De Luz, California). Our almonds are also raw, non-GMO, and naturally gluten free. These almonds never undergo steam pasteurization or any other heat treatment. This cold process leaves the nutrients intact and ensures that these raw almonds retain their unique, natural flavor.