Soaked Almonds: Should You Eat Them With or Without the Skin? Expert Answers

Many people start their day by eating soaked almonds on an empty stomach. While this might be beneficial for health, one query related to this remains. We are talking about the one which says ‘the skin of soaked almonds’ are harmful and should be removed before eating. Is this a myth or reality? The article will answer this question for you.

To understand this better, we reached out to Dr Geetika Chopra, Celebrity Holistic Nutritionist, New Delhi. 

Are Soaked Almond Skin Harmful Or Health?

Let us straightway get to the main point – are soaked almond skin harmful for not? Yes, “Eating the skin of soaked almonds is completely safe. The idea that almond skin is harmful is a myth. In fact, almond skin contains fibre and antioxidants (polyphenols) that support gut health and reduce inflammation,” says Dr Chopra.

The expert adds, “However, soaking almonds makes them easier to digest and may slightly improve nutrient absorption. Some people prefer removing the skin because it contains tannins, which can mildly reduce mineral absorption; but this effect is not significant in a balanced diet.”

So what is the final verdict? Dr Chopra says, “Almond skin is not harmful. You can eat almonds with or without skin based on your digestion and preference.”

Health Benefits of Almonds

According to the Cleveland Clinic, these are the health benefits of almonds:

• Good source of healthy fats: Almonds have monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are known as ‘healthy’ fats.
• Low in carbohydrates: Almonds contain slightly fewer carbohydrates, as compared to other nuts. It contains fibre as well, which can help keep your blood sugar levels stable, and reduce risks of blood sugar spike.
• High in calcium: Almonds are high in calcium, which helps support bone and teeth health. They also contain magnesium, zinc, vitamin K and manganese, all these are good for bone health.
• High in antioxidants: Almonds are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and flavonoids. These help prevent cell damage due to free radicals and oxidative stress. 

Are Almonds Good for the Heart?

According to the Mayo Clinic, eating nuts (including almonds) on a regular basis is good for the heat because it provides the following benefits:

• Improves artery health.
• Lessens inflammation linked to heart disease.
• Lowers the risk of blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
• Lowers chances of high blood pressure.
• Reduces the risk of early death due to heart disease.
• Lower unhealthy cholesterol levels.
• Helps manage weight.

Conclusion

The notion that almond skin is harmful for health is a myth. Eating the soaked almonds’ skin is completely safe. Expert confirm this and add that in fact, almond skin contains fibre and antioxidants (polyphenols) that support gut health and reduce inflammation.