Eating healthy can be a real challenge when you’re on the road (and even when you’re not). Since I travel often, it’s important that I plan my meals and snacks ahead of time. Not only do I want to make sure that I don’t overeat, but I want to be sure I’m getting enough of the right nutrients. That’s why I always throw a trail mix or two in my travel bag before heading out the door.

The Coastal Berry Blend is one of my go-to snacks because I know it’s all natural and it has a good supply of protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and monounsaturated fats (those are the good ones). There are many “superfood” ingredients in this mix, but I wanted to talk today about one that often gets overlooked: the almond.

Almonds aren’t fancy or exotic like some of the other superfoods that have become trendy these days, but they are a superfood nonetheless. In the nut family, almonds are like the nutritional workhorses. They are a rich source of vitamin E, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and copper. Phew. That’s quite an impressive list. But, that’s not all. Almonds are also packed with phytonutrients that act as free radical scavengers in your body, protecting your cells from oxidative damage.

In studies, almonds have been shown to prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol and help reduce inflammation that can lead to chronic disease.

That’s a tall order for a little nut. And that’s exactly why the Coastal Berry Blend will always have a spot in my travel bag. I hope you’ll consider making room in yours too.

Deborah Enos,
“The One-Minute Wellness Coach”