Soaking nuts and dry fruits overnight before eating them is a common practice in most Indian households. But have you ever wondered about the logic behind this age-old practice? Here’s all you need to know about this traditional way of eating nuts and dry fruits, and whether it’s good or bad for health. let’s find out…
What does Ayurveda say?
According to Ayurvedic books, soaking dry fruits and nuts overnight is believed to increase the efficacy of these health-giving nuts and dry fruits. Furthermore, there are many reasons why one should consume these only after soaking as it reduces hot potency, makes it easier to digest, helps in balancing the doshas, to name a few. Here are some lesser known benefits of soaking nuts and dry fruits before eating them.
Improves digestion
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong digestion, which revolves around the digestive fire also known as agni. It is believed that soaking nuts and dried fruits activates the enzymes and softens the food, making it easier to digest.
Ama formation reduced
Ama refers to toxins or undigested material that can accumulate in the body and undermine metabolic health and also affect gut health. Soaking nuts is believed to reduce ama formation, promote better digestion and prevent accumulation of undigested substances and improve overall health.
Balancing the doshas
According to Ayurveda, there are three doshas that govern the human body – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It is believed that an imbalance in these doshas can lead to many health problems. However, eating soaked nuts and dry fruits has a calming effect, especially on Vata dosha, helping to balance it.
Reducing bile in the body
Some dry fruits and nuts have a hot nature and eating them in large quantities can aggravate Pitta Dosha. It is believed that soaking reduces the hot potency and cools it down and makes it easily digestible for people suffering from digestive diseases and pitta dosha.
Better nutrient absorption
Soaking can reduce anti-nutrients such as phytic acid, tannins and enzyme inhibitors present in nuts and dried fruits. This increases the bioavailability of nutrients, resulting in better absorption.
Hydration
Soaking nuts and dried fruits provides hydration and can help balance dryness associated with Vata dosha. This is especially relevant for individuals with Vata nature or experiencing Vata imbalance.
Source of nutrients
Soaked nuts are believed to be an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids and minerals. They can help build immunity, prevent diseases, and strengthen the body.
Easy on the system
Ayurveda suggests that some individuals may have a sensitive digestive system. Soaking nuts and dried fruits can make them gentle on the stomach, reducing the chance of bloating, stomach ache or digestive upset.
Alkaline effect
Soaked nuts, especially almonds, are considered to have alkaline properties. Ayurveda suggests that maintaining alkaline balance in the body contributes to overall health and well-being.
While soaking nuts and dry fruits is generally considered beneficial in Ayurveda, it is advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for guidance before including dry fruits and nuts in your daily diet, especially if you suffer from underlying health issues.