Carolina Barbeque

Nutritional Information

Click on to learn more information about each nutrient.

Fat

Essential for proper functioning of the body, fats provide essential fatty acids, which are not made by the body and must be obtained from food. Fats are also an important energy source. Healthy skin and hair are maintained by fat. Unsaturated fats help to lower blood cholesterol if used in place of saturated fats.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Fat; [updated 2008 May 8; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 10 a.]. Available from: MedlinePlus

Cholesterol

Almonds have been shown to reduce LDL and total cholesterol - Nine clinical studies over the last 13 years have shown that almonds can lower cholesterol as part of a diet low in saturated fat.

Almond Board of California

Potassium

Potassium is a very important mineral to the human body. It has various roles in metabolism and body functions and is essential for the proper function of all cells, tissues, and organs. The recommended dietary intake of 4.7 gm or higher can slightly lower blood pressure.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Potassium in diet; [updated 2007 March 2; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 10 a.]. Available from: MedlinePlus

Fiber

Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet. Dietary fiber adds bulk to your diet. Because it makes you feel full faster, it can be helpful in controlling weight. Fiber aids digestion and helps prevent constipation.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Fiber; [updated 2007 August 6; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 11 a.]. Available from: MedlinePlus

Protein

Protein is one of three macronutrients, including carbohydrates and fat, that is vital to overall health, growth and development. It has many functions in the human body; it is used to produce enzymes, hormones and muscle. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines (2005) identified nuts like almonds, seeds and legumes as "rich sources of energy, magnesium, potassium, protein and fiber."

Almond Board of California

Calcium

Calcium is one of the most important minerals for the growth, maintenance, and reproduction of the human body. Calcium helps form and maintain healthy teeth and bones. Proper levels of calcium over a lifetime can help prevent osteoporosis.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Calcium in diet; [updated 2007 Jan. 17; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 12 p.]. Available from: MedlinePlus

Vitamin E

Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E.

Almond Board of California

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and protects body tissue from damage caused by unstable substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues, and organs. They are believed to play a role in certain conditions associated with aging.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Vitamin E; [updated 2007 Jan. 2; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 12 p.]. Available from: MedlinePlus

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral for human nutrition. Magnesium in the body serves several important metabolic functions. It plays a role in the production and transport of energy. It is also important for the contraction and relaxation of muscles. Magnesium is involved in the synthesis of protein, and it assists in the functioning of certain enzymes in the body.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Magnesium in diet; [updated 2006 May 6; cited 2008 July 30]; [about 12 p.]. Available from MedlinePlus

Carbohydrates

Almonds are low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index value, meaning they raise blood sugar slowly, which is important for people with diabetes who try to avoid foods with high glycemic values (foods that cause blood sugar to spike). More than 80 percent of the carbohydrates found in almonds are in the form of fiber.

A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia [Internet]. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M., Inc.; ©2005. Carbohydrates; [updated 2006 August 15; cited 2008 September 14]; [about 2p.]. Available from: MedlinePlus