Are almonds safe to eat raw?
In this brief guide, we are going to answer the question, “Are almonds safe to eat raw?”. We will discuss in-depth why almonds are usually soaked in water rather than eaten raw. We will also discuss the potential health benefits and impacts of eating raw almonds.
Are almonds safe to eat raw?
Yes, it is completely safe to eat raw sweet almonds. You can eat them raw, toasted, or after soaking in water. There is another variety of almonds called bitter almonds. This type of almond is not safe to eat raw. Bitter almonds are usually used to extract almond oil rather than for eating.
What are different varieties of almonds?
Sweet almonds, readily available in shops and are considered safe to eat, are the most common.
Bitter almonds are ones that naturally contain a toxin that your body converts to cyanide, a poisonous substance that can kill you. As a result, raw bitter almonds should be avoided. Bitter almonds can be cooked, roasted, or microwaved to lower their toxin content and make them safer to eat. It is still not recommended to eat them.
Why do you soak almonds in water?
You can eat almonds raw. However, if you are a person with digestion issues, always consider soaking the almonds in water. Here is why you need to soak your almonds
- Almonds have a rough, firm texture that makes them hard to digest. Soaking softens them, making them potentially easier for your body to break down.
- Antinutrients in almonds can interfere with the digestion and absorption of certain nutrients like calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium.
- Almonds’ texture and flavor are also affected by soaking. Almonds in their raw state are firm and crunchy, with a slightly bitter flavor. They become softer, less bitter, and more buttery-tasting after being soaked, which may appeal to some people.
How to soak raw almonds in water?
- Soak the almonds in water. Use 2 cups of water for one cup of almonds. To guarantee that the flavor of the almonds is not harmed, make sure to use filtered water. Also, make sure the almonds are well immersed in water.
- Allow the soaked almonds to sit on the counter for about twelve hours.
- Drain the water.
- Now the almonds are ready to eat. You can also peel the skin, allow the almonds to air dry, and then store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
What are the health benefits of eating raw almonds?
Whether you eat almonds raw, soaked, or toasted, they have the same benefits.
- Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and other nutrients.
- Almonds are an excellent source of antioxidants like vitamin E. Antioxidants protect cells from damage, which causes inflammation, aging, and illnesses like cancer.
- Almonds’ magnesium content may also assist to decrease blood pressure.
- One or two handfuls of almonds per day can result in minor decreases in “bad” cholesterol, potentially lowering heart disease risk.
Are there any drawbacks of eating raw almonds?
There are a few drawbacks to eating raw almonds.
- If the almonds are unclean, they can transmit food-borne illnesses the same as other raw foods. If the almonds are soaked in water or toasted, most pathogenic bacteria are destroyed.
- Toxic molds may be present in almonds. Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by molds that have been related to many health issues, including digestive problems and liver cancers.
Compared to roasted and salted almonds, raw, unsalted almonds appear to be more susceptible to mold growth. The high temperatures applied during roasting, as well as the lower moisture content created by adding salt, are thought to kill the toxic mold.
How many raw almonds can you safely eat per day?
23 almonds per day is the recommended amount. Raw, soaked, and toasted almonds must be consumed within this amount. There are side effects of eating too many almonds such as:
- Weight gain: Almonds have healthy fatty acids. Regardless of this, too many will cause weight gain. Especially if you are leading a sedentary lifestyle.
- An overdose of vitamins: Almonds have a lot of vitamin E. Too much vitamin E can cause symptoms like Diarohhea, and blurry vision.
- Too much fiber: Almonds have a lot of fiber. Too much fiber can cause a stomach upset and bloating.
- Kidney stones: Almonds are very rich in oxalates. An excess amount of calcium oxalate in the body can lead to kidney stones. People with existing kidney problems must be very careful when eating oxalate-rich food like almonds.
Who should not eat raw almonds?
Any person with digestive issues, and people who experience bloating and gas after eating tree nuts like almonds, cashews, and peanuts.
Other FAQs about Almonds that you may be interested in.
Can you eat raw almonds without soaking them?
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we answered the question, “Are almonds safe to eat raw?”. We discussed in depth why almonds are usually soaked in water rather than eaten raw. We also discussed the potential health benefits and impacts of eating raw almonds.
