Almonds help to protect the heart and arteries by lowering cholesterol, increasing the good fats (HDL ) and the lowering of blood pressure. Almonds are the best nuts of choice for maintaining healthy bones as they contain the highest amounts of calcium, magnesium and phosphorous. In addition almonds are high in vitamin E and D which is essential to maintain healthy bones, skin, nails, and hair as well as to help decrease incidence of cancer.