The benefits of soaking almonds

Did you wonder why your mother insisted you soak your almonds before consuming them?  Here’s why… It has nothing to do with taste; it is simply the healthier option.

The brown peel of almonds contains tannin that inhibits nutrient absorption. Once you soak almonds the peel comes off easily and allows the nut to release all nutrients easily.

Soak a handful of almonds in half a cup of water. Cover them and allow them to soak for 8 hours. Drain the water, peel off the skin and store them in plastic container. These soaked almonds will last you for about a week.

Benefits of soaked almonds:

1.    Help with digestion - Soaking almonds helps to release enzymes such as lipase that in turn help with digestion of fats.

2.    Help 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.

3.    Almonds keep your heart healthy, reduce bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein) and increase good cholesterol (high density lipoprotein).

4.    They are a good source of antioxidants: Vitamin E present in soaked almonds works as an antioxidant that inhibits free radical damage that prevents ageing and inflammation.

5.    Fight Cancer: Soaked almonds contain Vitamin B17 that is vital for fighting cancer.

6.    Flavonoid, present in almonds suppresses tumour growth.

7.    Help in lowering and maintaining glucose levels and regulating high blood pressure.  

8. Soaked almonds contain folic acid that reduces birth defects.