Why I soak my almonds before eating them

Almonds are a high energy food that are rich in minerals, fiber, and protein.

They can help regulate blood sugar, provide energy, and are a healthy snack. However, you can receive the most benefit from almonds when you soak them overnight and then peel them. Soaked almonds are much more digestible and absorbable, contain more enzymes, and are easier to chew than regular almonds- turning them into a superfood!

Many years ago when I was suffering from low blood sugar and adrenal exhaustion, I consulted an Ayurvedic doctor. I was very run down and was having difficulty regulating my blood sugar and energy levels. In addition to some other very helpful suggestions, the doctor  recommended that I start my day with two easily digestible super foods: soaked almonds and soaked dates in milk

He explained that according to Ayurveda ( an ancient holistic healing system from India that believes in the balance of mind and body)  almonds should always be soaked before eating them. Apparently the skin of the almond contains a toxic substance and an enzyme inhibitor. By soaking the almonds overnight, the skin will just pop off easily in the morning. In addition, the overnight soaking of the almonds makes them much more digestible,  easier to chew, and thus healthier.

Based on that Ayurvedic doctor's advice, I followed a simple breakfast routine that was very easy on the digestive tract and very rich in nutrients. I ate 10 soaked and peeled almonds followed by a hot drink made of soaked dates and milk. It was a light and easily absorbable breakfast that helped nourish me back to health. 

What are the amazing benefits of soaked almonds? 

1.  My Ayurvedic doctor was a believer that a few almonds eaten every day could help prevent cancer. Actually, almonds do contain Vitamin B17 which is thought to help fight cancer, and almonds also contain flavonoids which may help reduce the growth of tumors. 

2. Helps regulate blood sugar levels which may make them perfect for those with diabetes or low blood sugar. ( always check with your doctor first)

3. Helps with digestion. Soaking the almonds overnight releases the almond's enzymes. Enzymes are essential for better digestion. The enzymes help with digestion- especially lipase for the digestion of fats. 

4. Almonds are nutritious, satisfying and filling. They contain monounsaturated fats which may be helpful to improve cholesterol levels and thus good for the heart. 

5. Helps reduce inflammation. Raw soaked almonds provide antioxidants which may be important to help reduce inflammation in the body and play a role in anti-aging. 

6. Soaked and peeled almonds are considered moderately alkaline, which is important in maintaining a balanced ph in your body. Many holistic doctors say that disease doesn't live in an alkaline environment ( as opposed to an acidic environment)

7. Almonds are also rich in both calcium and magnesium which makes it a great source of these nutrients for vegans. 

If you need a quick grab and go breakfast- eat a piece of fruit and then 10 soaked almonds! Nothing could be quicker and yet nutritious. Almonds are filling.

How to prepare soaked almonds: 

Ingredients: 

10 organic raw almonds 

1 small glass container

1/2 cup of filtered water 

Directions: 

Place the almonds in the glass container. Cover the almonds with the water and allow to soak overnight on the counter . In the morning spill off the water and one at a time, squeeze and pop the skin off the almonds. I eat each one as I remove the skin. Chew very well and relax.

I soak the almonds on the counter overnight

In the morning the skin literally pops right off

My Hot Date and Milk Toddy:

This is one of my favorites.  Warm dates and milk is a sweet and soothing way to begin the day. 

Dates are high in fiber. In addition, dates contain many nutrients that help nourish the body. After I soak them in milk, the dates never seem as sweet, which makes them even better for the morning.

Ingredients: 

2 organic medjoul dates ( soaked overnight in 6 ounces of milk) 

6 ounces of milk ( or use plant based milk substitute) 

1 mug

Directions:

Pour 6-8 ounces of milk in a coffee mug. Add the dates and soak overnight. Some people leave it out on the counter overnight, but I think it is safer to put the mixture in the refrigerator. In the morning, remove the mug and pour the contents into a saucepan.

Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 2 minutes- turn off the heat. Pour the mixture back into the mug and sip on the hot mixture until finished. The dates will melt into the hot milk. This drink is relaxing and more nourishing than hot chocolate. Add a pinch of turmeric or cinnamon if desired before drinking.

While I was healing, I ate soaked almonds and soaked dates and milk every morning for breakfast. 

The breakfast was light, yet highly nourishing and beneficial for blood sugar. 

I could feel my energy returning daily. 

Every now and then if I am under stress, perhaps eating improperly, or not sleeping well,  I always return back to what I call my Ayurvedic breakfast to help me get back on track. It is a great rejuvenator and health builder for me.

What else can you do with soaked almonds? Make your own almond milk - Healthy, easy, and  delicious

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and am not trying to diagnose or give medical advice. The information in this post is strictly for educational purposes. Always consult your medical doctor if you are not feeling well and before making any changes in your diet.

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