Chandigarh, Nov 1: If you’ve ever been told to “eat your almonds,” especially those soaked overnight, there’s science behind the advice. Almonds — often hailed as nature’s nutrient powerhouse — pack a healthy dose of protein, fibre, vitamin E, and healthy fats. And soaking them before eating may make this everyday nut even more beneficial.
For many, like Delhi-based writer Meera Sharma, eating soaked almonds is more than a morning ritual — it’s a lifelong habit. “I’ve eaten almonds every day for as long as I can remember,” she says. “Now, I’m trying to instil the same in my child. It’s such an easy way to boost health.”
Nutritionists agree. Weight-management expert Gargi Sharma says soaked almonds are “better than raw” because the soaking process breaks down the nut’s brown peel and helps unlock nutrients that may otherwise remain bound. “Soaking helps neutralise enzyme inhibitors, making it easier for the body to digest and absorb nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium,” she explains.
Experts say that consuming 4–6 soaked almonds every morning for a month can improve skin texture, enhance brain function, and help manage cholesterol. Regular intake may also support steady energy levels and reduce unhealthy snacking due to the nut’s high satiety factor.
However, moderation remains key. Almonds are calorie-dense, and overconsumption — more than a handful a day — can lead to unwanted weight gain or digestive discomfort.
To include soaked almonds in your daily routine, soak them overnight in a glass of water and peel them in the morning before eating. Pairing them with a glass of milk or adding them to a smoothie can make the habit easier to sustain.
In a world full of complex diets and supplements, a handful of soaked almonds may just be the simplest — and most sustainable — daily nutrition upgrade.