To peel or not to peel: What's the best way to eat almonds?

Have you too been given a handful of almonds by your mom in order to better your memory? From boosting memory and lowering cholesterol to providing healthy fats and keeping a check on blood sugar levels, almonds are associated with a number of health benefits.

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But when it comes to consuming something, eating it in the right manner is of utmost importance in order to derive maximum benefits from it. If you too wonder what is the best way to have almonds, continue watching.

While you can safely eat them raw or roasted, there are some extra benefits of eating soaked and peeled almonds, as suggested by UK, National Institutes of Health (NIH). Take a look:

Aids digestion

Almonds have a tough, hard exterior that can make them difficult to digest. However, soaking them in water softens them, potentially making it easier for your body to break them down.

Increases absorption of certain nutrients

Soaking may take time but it helps increase the nutrient content of almonds. The skin of the nut contains tannins, which prevent the complete absorption of nutrients.

Taste and texture

Raw almonds are hard and crunchy with a slightly bitter flavour due to their tannins. When soaked, they become softer, less bitter and more buttery-tasting, which may be more appealing to some individuals.

Reduces high cholesterol

Soaked almonds are also full of magnesium which is helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. A proper dose of magnesium also reduces high cholesterol which further reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Pro tip- Make sure you don’t consume more than 6-8 almonds on a daily basis, as an excess of it can lead to weight gain and can also increase body heat. To be on the safe side, 3-4 almonds on a daily basis are sufficient.

Also watch: Eat walnuts to curb inflammation and fight heart disease: study