Availability of Lipids in Almonds in Healthy Individuals

This cross-over study consisted of three study periods of four consecutive days separated by at least one week. During each day of the three study periods, participants were required to consume 55g of almonds split up into 5 g portions. They were required to chew the almonds 10, 25, or 40 times before swallowing, depending on the treatment. During each treatment period, all participants followed the same procedures over the four days. On day one after an overnight fast, participants reported to the laboratory and were presented with 11, 5 gram portions of almonds to chew 10, 25, or 40 times, depending on treatment arm. The participant remained in the laboratory for 4 hours post-almond consumption for measurements of blood and appetite. For the remainder of the 4 days, participants consumed all meals in the laboratory and collected all stools passed. On a separate occasion, recovered particle sizes of masticated almonds were measured by a mechanical sieving process. Individuals chewed almond samples either 10, 25 or 40 times and expectorated them into sieves.

Inclusion criteria

• 18-50 years of age
• BMI 20-25 kg/m2
• Full set of healthy teeth
• Weight stable (<3 kg change in past 3 mo)

Exclusion criteria

• Smoker
• Eating Disorders or high level of restraint
• Endocrine disorders
• Pregnant or lactating
• Allergic to nuts
• Taking medication likely to confound study outcomes (meds affecting appetite)