From early childhood we have memories of our grandmothers and mothers forcing us to have soaked almonds. Why,we would wonder, do they insist on doing so? An almond is an almond! What would change if we soak them in water?
We all know that almonds are a healthy snack, packed with protein, fiber and vitamins. Most people consume them for their health benefits but fail to appreciate the logic behind soaking them.
Raw almonds contain certain phytochemicals that prevent our body from receiving the full benefit of the nutrients almonds contain. Soaking almonds helps unlock these.
Here I am highlighting a few of these benefits of soaked almonds for you.
Benefits of soaked almonds-
Improves Digestion
The brown peel of almonds contains a compound tannin. It inhibits the release of enzyme ‘Lipase’ which helps in the digestion of fats. Once the peel is removed after soaking, it is easier to digest the nut. It further helps in the breakdown of fats, thereby improving digestion.
Soaking almonds is a simple and effective way to having a healthy gut. This is because it has some probiotic components which helps the growth of good gut bacteria. It thus aids in absorption of nutrients from food during digestion and maintain a healthy gut.
Soaked almond also reduces the acid release in the digestive track.
Better Access to Nutrients
Soaking of almonds helps us reap complete benefits of the omega3 and omega6 fatty acids, contained in it. It also aids in absorption of fat soluble E and D vitamins.
Helps with Weight-Loss
The monounsaturated fats in almonds curb your appetite and keep you full. So feel free to snack on them because they’ll help you avoid binge-eating and trigger weight-loss.
Good Source of Antioxidants
Vitamin E present in soaked almonds works as an antioxidant which inhibits free radical damage that prevents ageing and inflammation.
Rich in Folic Acid
Soaked almonds are good for pregnant women because they have folic acid. It helps to reduce the changes in the neural tube leading to birth defects.
Thus, it is not a bad idea to do as your mother did and make that extra effort to soak almonds. It is not so much about taste but about picking the healthier option between raw and soaked almonds.
