Health Benefits of Eating Soaked Almonds On Empty Stomach

Almonds are scientifically known as Prunus Dulcis. Almond trees are mostly found in Iran and surrounding countries.

While growing, they look like peaches, and as they ripen, the outer covering peels off and a hard seed is seen.

Considering the above statement, almonds are not completely a fruit neither a nut, hence an almond is known as dry fruit.

There are two types of almonds mainly: one with a soft shell and the other one with a hard shell, though different types of almonds are distinguished based on their taste and use.

Health benefiting properties of Eating Soaked Almonds:

Almonds are rich in protein, fibre, vitamin E, calcium, copper, magnesium and riboflavin.

They are also a source of iron, potassium, zinc and B vitamins, niacin, thiamine and folate. A 30-gram serving has 13g of healthy unsaturated fats and 1g of saturated fat.

They even contain immune-boosting, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other health-benefiting properties.

Though almonds can be consumed raw, many of us like it roasted for a snack, added it to a sweet dish, added to milk etc.

People wonder why almonds are soaked before eating them. So let us find out!

Health Benefits of Eating Soaked Almonds:

• Eases Digestion

As almonds have a rigid and compact texture, it may be difficult for some to digest them.

Hence, soaking softens it, and it becomes easier to digest. Soaking almonds also helps release a lipase enzyme that aids your body digest fats.

Though there is quite insubstantial proof about the potency of soaked almonds. One of the studies stated that the phytic acid levels decreased by less than 5% when almonds were soaked at normal room temperature for 24 hours.

Similarly, another research says that when chopped almonds were soaked in salted water just for 12 hours, 4 % reduced phytic acid levels were found.

Above all, 8-week research on 76 adults brought to the notice that soaking doesn’t improve digestive symptoms.  

• Work as Antioxidants

Almonds contain many antioxidants that can protect our body from free radicals and oxidative damage.

As we’re always burning due to stress and pollutants, we should be eating a good source of antioxidants daily. Almonds contain so many compounds that detoxify your body and cleanse toxins.

Regular consumption of soaked almond is even better than having raw almonds because soaking them brings out their properties and enhances their functions.

• Aids in Weight Loss

The two nutrients that increase the feeling of fullness which are protein and fibre, are enriched in almonds, therefore they decrease your overall calorie intake. 

Hence for effective weight loss, regular consumption of a few pieces of soaked almonds is recommended. Almonds also help in losing belly fat. There is evidence that eating nuts increase metabolism in our body which is linked to weight loss.

• Beneficial for Skin

To get healthy skin, eating a handful of soaked almonds can prove to be very helpful.

The rich vitamin E content in almonds helps in decreasing the signs of ageing and the skin is protected from the damage caused by the free radicals, which results in giving you blemish-free, radiant and glowing skin.

Many ladies have been inspired by these qualities and use soaked almonds to form a paste for their facial pack.

• Increases Absorption of Nutrients

Any eatables which are soft are always easy to chew and digest. Therefore soaking almonds and cutting or chewing them into smaller pieces helps in the absorption of essential nutrients and fats. Also, the phytic acid levels decrease as stated by a study.

Also compared to the raw almonds, the phytic acid levels appeared to be the same or even slightly higher in soaked almonds.

Altogether, these researches and studies are mixed on whether soaking decreases anti-nutrients or aids digestive symptoms.

• Boosts Brain Functions

Almonds are also known as ‘Brain Food’. They prevent cognitive decline, promote alertness and preserve longer memory due to the rich vitamin E content.

A study says that having healthy levels of vitamin E reduces the risks of heart diseases, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, etc. Many more health benefits and a sharp brain is ensured on a regular dosage of soaked almonds.

• Helps in Improving Blood Sugar Level

For managing blood sugar levels body requires a good amount of magnesium as well as other bodily processes.

Almonds have rich content of magnesium in it, which can help especially type 2 diabetic patients as they don’t get enough of it. 

Hence an adequate amount of this mineral in soaked almonds can help in improving the metabolic syndrome and the blood sugar profile of a patient.

• Helps in managing Cholesterol Levels

Research shows that eating an ounce of soaked almonds can reduce LDL ‘Bad’ cholesterol and also maintain HDL ‘Good’ cholesterol.

Almonds contain high levels of unsaturated fats which reduces the risk of LDL linked with serious heart diseases.

Also, when compared to the raw almonds, the phytic acid levels appeared to be the same or even slightly higher in soaked almonds.

Altogether, these researches and studies are mixed on whether soaking decreases anti-nutrients or aids digestive symptoms.

• Deliciously Healthy

Raw almonds are hard, slightly bitter and crunchy due to their tannins, which might not be so appealing to some.

As junk food has weakened our teeth, some people, especially the elderly, cannot chew raw almonds.

Soaking changes the taste and texture of almonds. After soaking, almonds become more soft, sweet and a bit buttery which might be appealing for some. After all, it depends on you how you like it better. 

Side-Effects of eating Soaked Almonds:

Almonds are generally considered to be very safe. However, it does not mean you eat a lot of them at once.

You should eat only about 4-6 almonds every day as they have a warm tone. Now with benefits come drawbacks too, so let us have a look at some of the side effects of eating soaked almonds.

• The tannins on almond skin are rich in nutrients and fibre and soaking them would peel off the skin of almond, which is a loss of some special nutrients present on the skin.

• More than required consumption of it can cause breathing problem, choking or nervous breakdown.

• Some people may be allergic to soaked almonds.

• Excessive consumption of it can cause toxicity in your body.

Conclusion:

Soaked almonds may improve the digestion and availability of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

Since these are so beneficial, we’re sure you’d like to try them and experience all of these health benefits.

 Hope you liked the amazing health benefits of eating soaked almonds on empty stomach in the morning. 🙏