It depends on what else you’re eating at that time. And it depends on what activities you’re doing that day. And it depends on a million other factors.

But, I don’t wanna leave you with no answer at all, so let me give you a rule-of-thumb: I generally have clients consume up to 1 oz (~28g) of nuts at a time (or with a meal that calls for fat). But if a given meal includes a fair amount of carbs, then I have them reduce fat (nut) intake.

For the record, usually about 23 whole almonds weighs about 1 oz. So you eating 20 almonds is probably not too much, but if you’re also eating a decent-sized potato…or if you’re also eating other fat in that meal like avocado, then that probably would be too much at once.

Although I couldn’t give you a concrete answer, I hope that helps a bit.

To answer your question about artificial sweeteners slowing metabolic rate, I have never come across any evidence at all they they do slow metabolism.

Of course I’m always learning, but I think I would’ve come across that by now if it were the case. There is a little evidence here and there pointing to the possibility that they have a tendency to cause weight gain, but not due to a reduction in metabolism.

So….if you called me from Cash Cab with $1,500 on the line and asked me if artificial sweeteners slowed metabolism…my answer would be no.

“I heard that artificial sweeteners lower the metabolism .. Is that true?”