This is the conclusion of the study “Snacking on Whole Almonds for Six Weeks Increases Heart Rate Variability during Mental Stress in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial” published recently in the journal Nutrients.
Low heart rate variability, which can be induced by mental stress, is a predictor of risk of sudden cardiac death. Researchers form the King’s College London investigated the impact of almond consumption on heart rate variability. They recruited men and women (30-70 years-old) with above average risk of developing CVD. Participants were provided with 20% estimated energy requirements from muffins or almonds, which for a 2000 kcal diet equates to five muffins or 63 g of almonds per day. Supine heart rate and heart rate variability were measured at resting and during mental stress, at the beginning of the study and six weeks later.
Results showed that snacking on whole almonds instead of muffins may improve heart rate variability parameters, and therefore improve cardiac function. Researchers also conclude that incorporating tree nuts as daily snacks is encouraged as a positive lifestyle change that may enhance cardiovascular health.
This research was funded by the Almond Board of California and Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education.
Low heart rate variability, which can be induced by mental stress, is a predictor of risk of sudden cardiac death. Researchers form the King’s College London investigated the impact of almond consumption on heart rate variability. They recruited men and women (30-70 years-old) with above average risk of developing CVD. Participants were provided with 20% estimated energy requirements from muffins or almonds, which for a 2000 kcal diet equates to five muffins or 63 g of almonds per day. Supine heart rate and heart rate variability were measured at resting and during mental stress, at the beginning of the study and six weeks later.
Results showed that snacking on whole almonds instead of muffins may improve heart rate variability parameters, and therefore improve cardiac function. Researchers also conclude that incorporating tree nuts as daily snacks is encouraged as a positive lifestyle change that may enhance cardiovascular health.
This research was funded by the Almond Board of California and Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education.