For most the word “bacteria” brings forth negative connotations. Mold, defects, harm, or those animated green and brown colored blobs in cartoons that are out to defeat the inside of one’s body. However, there is such a thing as “good” bacteria. Desirable bacteria that are a part of the immune system and would gladly go to war with their stereotypical counterparts.

We develop this kind of bacteria through the digestive system. It sets up shop in the colon and lives happily with certain indigestible food particles called prebiotics to keep it growing and active in the protection of the body. Not just any kind of food particle can sustain the life of good bacteria. It must be able to successfully get through the upper part of the intestine without being absorbed or digested along the way. According to the journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology, almonds have the ability to be one of these special foods.

The Almond Board of California funded a study to test this theory through the use of the Model Gut. The Model Gut was able to expose the almonds, which were grinded to stimulate chewing to the experiences of being in both the stomach and small intestine. Afterwards they were placed inside an in vitro batch system, which served at the large intestine. This tested their potential to grow beneficial bacteria.

The results showed the almonds were able to largely increase certain good bacteria. To determine what influenced this to happen, the study included almonds with and without their fat content in tact. Only the almonds with their fat were able to positively affect the growth. This implies that it is the lipid that is the important element for the prebiotics of almonds. Other factors such as time spent in the digestive system and how it is processed (through chewing) also contribute the effectiveness of the almonds. Further detailed studies are needed, particularly regarding almond lipids.

However, the significance of almonds is clear, not only in this study, but in our general lives. Although once wrongly believed to be too high in fat, almonds are actually the most nutritious of all nuts and snacking on them during the day can assist with many things.

They are high in fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamin E. Almonds are also loaded with protein, which make them a particularly good option for vegetarians. Almonds are a very well balanced food that contains the correct types of fat. This helps in the lowering of the bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and leaving the good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) alone. Eating almonds have also been shown to lower risks of chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s.

Finally, they can help with the maintenance of weight while still enjoying a tasty snack. Almonds block the body from absorbing unhealthy fats and carbohydrates as well as provide the feeling of fullness after eating them.

Rather than going through the process of prescription drugs and their risks to the body after already experiencing health issues, the alternative is simple. Carry around a bag of almonds to eat throughout the day and avoid the health issues altogether. It is an easier and natural way of protecting the body from not only those dastardly cartoon bacteria, but much more harmful problems.