Overnight Soaked Nuts, Dry Fruits And Seeds- Why Have Them?
Image Credit: Soaked almonds, Farmhouseguide.com

The tradition of soaking certain foods in water at night and having it the next day morning on an empty stomach has been an age-old practice. In recent years, it has been backed by several leading health experts, nutritionists and dieticians, making it a trend to start the day with overnight-soaked nuts, dry fruits and seeds. Why are certain items chosen to be consumed this way? What to choose and why to have them; if you are wondering about them, stay tuned. 

Certain foods sprout when soaked in water overnight, upping their nutrient content. Fitness trainers and dieticians say that several foods become more nutritious after being immersed in water for a night. It also eliminates nutrition inhibitors like oxalates and phytates. 

Almonds

Almonds become more nutritional and nourishing after soaking them overnight. Following peeling the soaked almonds, take them on an empty stomach. They alleviate high blood pressure and cholesterol. Soaked almonds help to boost memory and revitalise the body.

Raisins

Because raisins are abundant in iron and antioxidants, they are pretty nutritious. You can have healthy, glowing skin by soaking raisins overnight and then eating them the following morning. Many women are iron deficient, and this supplement can help them. Having overnight-soaked raisins on an empty stomach also aids in the restoration of sleep and the improvement of the digestive system.

Walnuts

Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in walnuts, and it helps in minimising cholesterol. The heart remains healthy when the cholesterol is reduced. Nuts are high in natural oils, a perfect ingredient to keep the skin and hair healthy. Walnuts aid in the reduction of inflammation and the risk of cancer. Soaked walnuts have a low glycemic index of only 15, making them an excellent diabetic snack. Walnuts have insulin resistance and aid in blood sugar control.

Dates

Soft dates, Image Source: Pexels

Dates may aid in boosting brain function. According to laboratory research, dates can reduce inflammatory chemicals in the brain, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6). By removing the tannins and phytic acid that are present, soaking improves our bodies' ability to absorb the nutrients from them. According to Ayurveda, soaking dates makes them laghu or simple to digest. To get the most nutrients out of dates, soak them overnight for 8-10 hours before eating.

Flaxseeds

By balancing the amounts of good and bad cholesterol in the body, eating soaked flaxseeds may help people with cholesterol issues. Dietary fibre found in flaxseed aids in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. To minimise the likelihood of stomach discomfort, have soaked flaxseeds first thing in the morning.

Chia seeds

Chia seeds soaked in milk, Image Source: Pexels

Insoluble fibre helps bulk up your stool while still maintaining its softness. Chia seeds are rich in this type of fibre. They can therefore aid in promoting digestion when soaked overnight and consumed the following morning. Soaking chia seeds in water or milk overnight can help them germinate completely. Furthermore, it will guarantee that any digestive inhibitors are eliminated (which act as a protective layer). One can understand the reason behind the widespread consumption of chia seed water to encourage bowel movements as a morning ritual. 

Fenugreek seeds

Methi dana or fenugreek seeds are abundant in fibre, which improves digestion. It also effectively cures constipation. Because of their ability to regulate blood sugar levels, fenugreek seeds may benefit diabetics. Often, health professionals recommend having overnight soaked fenugreek seeds in water or for at least 8 hours and drinking the water in the morning along with chewing the seeds. It is advised for diabetics.

Try including these overnight soaked foods to your diet and start your day with them. There are several health benefits.