You have probably heard the saying, “abs are made in the kitchen,” which refers to what so many nutrition and fitness experts repeat: Diet is as important an element of a strong body as exercise. The same sources will tell you that for a body that makes you feel good inside and out, eating shouldn’t be limiting – it may just take some strategic trade-offs. Take, for example, the almighty almond, a high-protein superfood that is just as satisfying. And by including some healthy almond-based recipes in your program, you can create a more balanced diet without feeling like you are sacrificing anything.
Celebrity trainer Massy Arias, who has worked with stars like SZA and Chris Hemsworth, may have a sweet tooth, but she’s learned that to stick to a healthy eating plan, she doesn’t have to give up her love of sweets. “Diet shouldn’t be about strict restrictions or depriving us of the foods we love,” she tells The Zoe Report. “I tell my clients that their daily food intake should make them feel good from the inside out by incorporating foods that energize us, improve our mood and make us feel like our best selves.” And for Arias, that includes a regular serving of almonds.
According to Medical News Today, studies have shown that consuming almonds can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, in part due to the fact that they are filled with healthy fat and fiber, which also makes you feel full (which increases your cravings after food can curb) those are less healthy). In addition, they have been found to be high in vitamin E and protein. So, if you don’t already enjoy almonds on a regular basis – assuming you’re not allergic – you may be missing out on some serious benefits.
Do you need creative ideas on how to increase your almond intake? As a partner with California Almonds, Arias shares some of her favorite ways to really enjoy this superfood, including a few breakfast ideas that might take the place of your usual avocado toast and smoothie to satisfy your sweet teeth. Look at all four in front of you.
Healthy almond-based recipe: almond butter toast
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If Arias needs a quick pre-workout snack, toast with homemade almond butter is always enough. “As I keep telling my clients, balance is key, and I’m always looking for delicious yet nutritious ways to improve my workout snack game with ingredients that fill me up without complaining,” explains they. “I usually have an almond butter spread over a wheat toast before my morning workout. I usually just mix roasted almonds, honey, coconut flakes and coconut oil in a food processor and voila, the best spread for the best of you, me and your toast. ”
Healthy almond-based recipe: energy balls
If this is the post-workout treatment you’re looking for, the trainer recommends choosing something that has both carbohydrates and protein. Your favorite snack after a sweat session? Almond butter-based energy balls that are perfect for on the go. “Before I go out for outdoor activities (like running, hiking, or biking), I take simple, convenient snacks with vegetable protein with me when I take time to cool down,” she says. “I make snack bites out of almond butter, coconut flour, Medjool dates, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt: I put them in a food processor or blender and combine them until the mixture is super smooth. Then I just shovel in balls, chill, and enjoy – both are delicious and convenient ways to curb hunger on the go. “
Healthy almond-based recipe: Amped-Up oatmeal
You don’t have to be a morning person to enjoy a deliciously satisfying bowl of oatmeal – Arias often makes one for lunch, especially when she’s craving something sweet. “When I crave a sweet treat after an intense HIIT workout, I choose oatmeal,” she explains. “It’s very nutritious, filling, and a great source of energy to keep you replenished every day. Adding almond milk, vanilla extract, berries, and cinnamon to oatmeal is a plus that will keep you full and fueled for hours. “
Almond-based recipe: Choco-Almond Smoothie
Do you fancy chocolate? Arias gets her fix – along with some leafy greens – in this decadent, protein-rich smoothie. “Pre-workout, post-workout, no-workout, smoothies are one of my tasks to improve my diet and stay strong,” she says. “I like to make my signature Choco Almond smoothie by mixing almond butter, almond milk, banana, spinach, chia seeds, and chocolate-flavored protein for fuel before a workout. These ingredients can be replaced with other fruits and vegetables at will. ”
