We nibble them without thinking about them, convinced to make the right choice. However, these dried fruits acclaimed by nutritionists may well be disguised calorie bombs. And according to Dr. Jean-Michel Cohen, certain almond varieties would even be more calorie … than foie gras. It was on Instagram that the famous nutritionist launched the alert, specifying that “According to the source, almonds are more caloric than foie gras“. A comparison that surprises, as these small seeds are associated with the idea of a healthy snack. But nutritional reality is much more contrasting.
Almonds, unsuspected fat champions
Almonds are oilseeds rich in unsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-9 (monounsaturated fatty acids) and omega-6. As such, they have proven benefits for cardiovascular health. However, their calorie density is far from negligible: 100 g of almonds contain about 50 g of lipids, for an average of 575 to 650 kcal depending on their origin.
In comparison, foie gras, however renowned for its wealth, displays approximately 535 kcal per 100 g. In this field, certain almonds could therefore exceed it. It is no coincidence that Dr. Cohen insists: “It’s not bad for health, but very fatty“And this lipid wealth is often hidden in nutritional advice, according to him.
The frequent error? Believe that healthy fats do not get fat. However, whether saturated or not, fats remain very caloric, and their excessive consumption promotes weight gain. A trap in which those who multiply small handles over the day easily fall.
How much almonds consume without excess?
If it is not a question of banning the almonds, you still have to know how to dose. According to Jean-Michel Cohen, the right measure would be between 20 and 30 g per week, the equivalent of 160 to 170 kcal. This corresponds to around 10 to 15 almonds depending on their size.
A figure much lower than many “healthy” diets or the ketogenic diet suggests. To avoid the counterproductive effect, it is better:
- Consume them alone, in snacks, not in addition to other fatty foods;
- Avoid dry or salted grilled versions, even more rich still;
- Do not exceed a handful (20 g) occasionally, even if they are biological or not transformed.
This warning does not aim to demonize food, but to recall a nutritional reality too often ignored. The almonds are healthy, yes, but on condition that you remain reasonable.
Often simplified advice, according to the doctor
For Jean-Michel Cohen, the “miraculous” image of almonds is based on simplified, even marketing messages. He insists: “Many dietitians talk about it without mentioning their real lipid charge“.
This vagueness around recommendations feeds confusion. And there are many who, thinking of doing well, end up consuming the calorie equivalent of two slots of foie gras … believing to stay in the “healthy”.
The best attitude? Inform with precision, never generalize a food in all situations, and always take into account the quantities. Because even the healthiest foods can become problematic, as long as we exceed the dose.