Starting your day healthy will help energize your mind and body. Ayurveda recommends a light and nutritious breakfast that contains essential nutrients to keep you energized and active throughout the day. Soaked almonds are one of the breakfasts our ancestors have trusted for ages, and for good reason. According to Ayurveda, almonds are a powerhouse of nutrients and play a key role in balancing the doshas, especially Kapha dosha. Kapha imbalance causes heaviness, coldness, and dampness, leading to lethargy, congestion, and respiratory problems. Eating soaked almonds first thing in the morning helps flush out Kapha and promote vitality and overall health. (Read also | Morning Superfoods: 7 Amazing Dried Fruits, Seeds, and Nuts to Lower Cholesterol)
Place the required number of almonds (one handful per person) in a bowl and add water. Soak them in water overnight. Peel them in the morning and eat on an empty stomach for maximum benefits.
How Almonds Balance the Doshas
An imbalance in Kapha dosha can lead to lethargy and sluggishness, as well as symptoms like respiratory problems, allergies, water retention, etc. Eating almonds and other lifestyle changes can help balance this dosha and promote overall health.
“In Ayurveda, the concept of dosha represents the three fundamental energies — Vata, Pitta and Kapha — that govern various physiological and psychological functions in the body. Almonds, with their unique composition, play a key role in eliminating excess Kapha, which is associated with qualities like heaviness, coldness and dampness. Characterized by being rich in healthy fats and natural oils, almonds’ oil content has proven to be particularly effective in calming and balancing Kapha dosha. By reducing accumulated Kapha, almonds contribute to a harmonious equilibrium in the body. This balance is essential for optimal health as too much Kapha can lead to problems like lethargy, congestion and respiratory issues,” said Ayurveda expert Dr Madhumita Krishnan in an interview with HT Digital.
Almonds boost immunity and physical strength
“Ancient texts say that almonds increase Vata dosha, which is associated with problems like weight loss, weakness and nutritional deficiencies. However, almonds actually help balance the dosha. Almonds have special oily properties that help nourish and strengthen all parts of the body. Hence, eating almonds can help boost your strength, your immune system and improve your overall health,” says Dr Krishnan.
The overall health benefits of almonds
Almonds are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re rich in vitamin E, which is linked to skin health and immune function, healthy fats, fiber and protein, and they promote heart health, satiety and muscle repair. Almonds also contain essential minerals like magnesium and manganese, which are vital for bone strength and energy metabolism.
“Loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, almonds offer a holistic approach to overall health. They support vital bodily functions, boost the immune system and help maintain an active metabolism. Including almonds in your diet is a natural and effective way to nourish the body from the inside out. Whether as a standalone snack, added to a smoothie or sprinkled on a salad, almonds are a versatile and delicious way to promote health and balance,” the Ayurvedic expert adds.
Beauty nuts, almonds
“Almonds play an incredible role in promoting skin health and radiance. Rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin E, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, almonds help nourish the skin from within. This combination of nutrients not only maintains skin’s elasticity but also protects against oxidative stress and fights the signs of ageing. Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani literature unanimously acknowledge almonds’ ability to enhance the skin’s natural radiance. Almonds’ inherent properties provide deep moisturization and promote supple, luminous skin. Regular consumption of almonds is believed to address common skin concerns and support clear, radiant skin, which is perfectly in line with the holistic principles of these ancient healing traditions,” says Dr Krishnan.
Benefits of Soaked Almonds
Ayurvedic experts say incorporating almonds into your daily routine is a simple yet effective step to maximise their benefits.
- Opting for peeled almonds is a wise choice as this preparation enhances digestibility and promotes optimal absorption of essential nutrients.
- Soaking almonds in water not only softens their texture, but also activates enzymes that help with nutrient absorption, making the nutrients in the almonds easier for your body to absorb.
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