Cyclamen and shrubs bring winter colour to gardens
The temperatures are edging slightly cooler as we move through the autumn season and we are seeing some spectacular autumn colour at the moment.
The flowering cherries (Prunus) are putting on a show of orange, red and yellow leaves.
Also on show at the moment are the rich gold
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Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
On a weight loss journey? Eating THIS nut can help drop the kilos, naturally
Research indicates that incorporating almonds into your diet may aid in weight management. A study revealed that consuming almonds as snacks can lead to a reduction in daily kilojoule intake, primarily by curbing the consumption of junk food. Almond consumption influences appetite-regulating hormones, potentially contributing to decreased food intake and promoting overall health. Weight loss is a tough nut to crack, but having a handful of a certain nut can really help you with it. Yes, that's right. Obesity rates are on the rise across the world. Being obese or overweight is more than a cosmetic concern; it can raise the risk of many diseases, including diabetes, fatty liver, and even certain cancers. Weight management is crucial for overall wellness. So how exactly do you manage weight or lose those extra pounds? Add a few almonds to your diet. Yes, that's right. A 2022 study led by researchers at the University of South Australia found that almonds may help you cut calories. The findings are published in the European Journal of Nutrition . Almonds Almonds are edible seeds of Prunus dulcis, aka the almond tree. Native to the Middle East, almonds are enjoyed by people across the world. These nuts are high in antioxidants, vitamin E, protein, and fiber. A 1-ounce or 28 g, serving of almonds contains : Fiber: 3.5 g Protein: 6 g Fat: 14 g (9 of which are monounsaturated) Vitamin E: 48% of the daily value (DV) Manganese: 27% of the DV Magnesium: 18% of the DV Copper, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and phosphorus Can almonds help with weight loss A handful of almonds could keep extra kilos at bay, according to new research. The researchers found that eating almonds can affect appetite. Having 30-50 grams of almonds as snacks could help people cut back on the number of kilojoules they consume each day. They found that people who consumed almonds lowered their energy intake by 300 kilojoules (most of which came from junk food) at the subsequent meal, when compared to an energy-equivalent carbohydrate snack. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo 'Rates of overweight and obesity are a major public health concern, and modulating appetite through better hormonal response may be key to promoting weight management,' Dr. Sharayah Carter from UniSA's Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA) said, in a statement. Sharing further about the research, Carter added, 'Our research examined the hormones that regulate appetite, and how nuts – specifically almonds - might contribute to appetite control. We found that people who ate almonds experienced changes in their appetite-regulating hormones, and that these may have contributed to reduced food intake (by 300kJ).' Obesity and almonds Obesity is on the rise across the globe. In 2022, about nine billion adults were overweight, with 650 million of these being obese. According to the data by the World Health Organization ( WHO ), 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity in 2022. To understand the weight loss effects of almonds, the researchers studied some people, and found that the ones who ate almonds had 47% lower C-peptide responses (which can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease); and higher levels of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (18 per cent higher), glucagon (39 per cent higher), and pancreatic polypeptide responses (44 per cent higher). The glucagon gives a sense of satiety, and the pancreatic polypeptide slows digestion. This reduces the food intake, leading to weight loss. 'Almonds are high in protein, fibre, and unsaturated fatty acids, which may contribute to their satiating properties and help explain why fewer kilojoules were consumed,' Dr. Carter said. Orange for weight loss: How eating oranges everyday can help you lose belly fat The researcher also pointed out that, through the study, they found that almonds produce small changes to people's energy intake. 'Even small, positive lifestyle changes can have an impact over a longer period. When we're making small, sustainable changes, we're more likely to be improving our overall health in the long run. Almonds are a fantastic healthy snack to incorporate into the daily diet. We are now excited to look at how almonds might affect appetite during a weight loss diet and how they might assist with weight management in the long term,' Dr Carter added.
Time Business News
17-07-2025
- Time Business News
Where Do Almonds Come From? Guide
Almonds are more than just a healthy snack. They're one of the most popular tree nuts in the world, prized for their flavor, versatility, and health benefits. But have you ever stopped to wonder where do almonds come from? Knowing the origin of almonds helps us appreciate the incredible journey this tiny nut has made—from ancient groves in the Middle East to supermarket shelves around the globe. Botanically speaking, almonds aren't actually nuts—they're seeds. They come from the fruit of the almond tree ( Prunus dulcis ), which is closely related to peaches and cherries. If you've ever cracked open a peach pit, you've seen something that looks a lot like an almond inside. Unlike peanuts (which are legumes) or walnuts (which are true nuts), almonds are classified as 'drupes'—fruits with a hard shell and a seed inside. It's this seed that we eat. Almonds have a rich history dating back over 5,000 years. Archaeological evidence suggests they were first domesticated in the Middle East, particularly in areas that are now modern-day Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Almonds appear in the Bible and are one of the earliest domesticated fruit trees. They were even found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun, proving their value and status in ancient Egypt. Almond trees are deciduous and require a cold winter to properly bloom. They typically flower in early spring, and the nuts are harvested in late summer. These trees thrive in Mediterranean climates—mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Well-drained sandy or loamy soils are ideal for optimal growth. The earliest wild almonds likely grew in the Fertile Crescent, an area known for the birth of agriculture. Over time, farmers selectively bred almonds to remove toxic bitterness from wild varieties. This region played a key role in the spread of almonds, especially along trade routes like the Silk Road and later, via Roman and Greek expansion. Thanks to ancient civilizations and traders, almonds made their way to Greece, Italy, and Spain, where they became deeply ingrained in culinary traditions. Spanish missionaries brought almonds to the New World in the 1700s. While initially unsuccessful in some parts, they found a perfect home in California's Central Valley. The global almond industry is now dominated by: United States (especially California) Spain Iran Australia California produces over 80% of the world's almonds. Its ideal climate, advanced agricultural technology, and vast farmland make it the top choice for large-scale almond farming. Almond harvesting usually takes place from August to October. Farmers use mechanical shakers to shake the trees, causing the nuts to fall to the ground where they dry before being collected. Once harvested, almonds are hulled, shelled, sorted, and sometimes roasted or blanched, depending on their end use. Growing almonds is water-intensive. A single almond takes about 1.1 gallons of water to produce. This has sparked debate, especially in drought-prone California. Environmentalists argue that large-scale almond farming strains ecosystems, but many farmers are adopting water-saving technologies and sustainable practices to counter these issues. Almonds are nutrient powerhouses. They're rich in: Protein Healthy fats Vitamin E Magnesium Fiber They help lower cholesterol, support heart health, aid in weight loss, and even benefit brain function. Sweet almonds are edible and widely cultivated. Bitter almonds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide and are toxic if eaten raw. Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, salted, slivered, or turned into products like almond milk, butter, or flour. From Indian sweets like badam halwa to Italian biscotti and French macarons, almonds are a global culinary star. Almond oil is used in skincare, while almond shells are even used for eco-friendly fuel and mulch. Almonds are technically seeds. They are related to peaches and plums. Bees are essential for pollinating almond trees. California almond blooms are the first major crop bloom of spring. Almond trees can live for 20–25 years. Almonds face challenges from climate instability, bee population decline, and shifting consumer demand. Farmers must adapt to survive. Drip irrigation, AI monitoring, and regenerative practices are shaping the future of sustainable almond farming. Eco-conscious consumers are pushing for lower water usage, better pollination practices, and organic farming standards. Almonds have traveled a long and fascinating journey—from ancient groves in the Middle East to high-tech farms in California. Whether you enjoy them in your breakfast smoothie or as a crunchy snack, almonds are a testament to nature's resilience and human innovation. No, almonds originated in the Middle East, but California is now the world's largest producer. Wild almonds are often bitter and toxic, while cultivated almonds are sweet and safe to eat. No, they need a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It takes about 3 to 4 years for an almond tree to start producing nuts. Not raw. Bitter almonds contain cyanide and must be processed to be safe for consumption. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Daily Mirror
15-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
‘Cloud-like' cherry blossom tree that creates an ‘elegant, soft-pink' bloom is on sale for £35
Enjoy a 'cloud-like' display next spring with this large, 'elegant, soft-pink' cherry blossom tree that won't break the bank with its budget-friendly price tag of £35 Cherry blossom trees are a covetable accessory for any garden, border, or patio. Thanks to their graceful bouquet of pastel pinks and whites, which arrives suddenly during the spring, they drop stunning petals like snowflakes and are an eye-catching addition to any outdoor space. But if you'd been worrying that these trees are a costly investment to your garden, fret not, as this refined specimen is currently up for grabs for £34.99 at Gardening Express. The Prunus 'Pandora', or cherry blossom, is a graceful and refined tree that looks beautiful in smaller gardens or on elegant avenues. Blooming in early spring, this gorgeous tree bursts into soft blush-pink single flowers that fade to near-white as they mature, creating a delicate, cloud-like canopy. The flowers emerge just before the fresh green foliage, which later takes on warm golden and orange tones in autumn, adding a seasonal charm through most of the year. Boasting an upright, vase-shaped habit, the Pandora cherry tree is ideal for narrow spaces or formal planting, whether you keep it in a planter or add it straight to the garden. This head-turning tree thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and bathes in full sun. That said, this tree is both hardy and low-maintenance, making it an easy plant to add to any space without the need for difficult care. You can prune it lightly in summer to maintain its neat form or let it grow freely into a wilder, unique shape. Adding character and a vibrant display to your yard, patio or borders, this cherry blossom tree is set to keep a stunning array of shades from spring to autumn, ensuring your garden is full of colour through most of the year. And what's more, this tree comes with the affordable price tag of £34.99, making it a wallet-friendly and beautiful choice. If you're on the hunt for alternative cherry blossom trees, check out this Prunus 'Amanogawa' Cherry Blossom Tree, which retails for £24.99 at You Garden. Over on Amazon, this Cheal's Weeping Pink Flowering Cherry Tree is available for £59.99, while B&Q offers this Japanese Flowering Cherry Blossom Tree for £44.99.
