Soaking is a popular and widely practised method that offers numerous benefits to the body. By immersing certain foods in water, their nutritional value can be significantly enhanced while their heat can be reduced.
This simple practice also protects the stomach from various issues such as irritation and inflammation. Furthermore, soaking also helps to break down complex compounds, making it easier for the body to absorb essential nutrients.
As a result, the body can reap a multitude of benefits including improved digestion, reduced inflammation and a strengthened immune system. Here, we’ve listed some everyday foods that you should always soak in water before eating.
Foods To Soak Before Eating
Grains
Soaking grains like rice, quinoa and oats is essential for optimal nutrition. It improves digestibility, enhances nutrient absorption and breaks down phytic acid. Soaking also reduces cooking time and helps remove debris and impurities when rinsed thoroughly before cooking, resulting in a more nutritious and easily digestible meal.
Nuts
You should also soak flaxseeds and almonds in water before they are consumed. This helps to neutralise tannins while increasing their nutritional value. Soaking also boosts their fibre and nutrient content while making their protein easier to digest, reducing stomach heat and promoting overall well-being.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Certain leafy greens such as spinach and kale benefit from a quick soak in water before consumption. Soaking helps remove dirt, sand and other impurities stuck on the leaves, ensuring a cleaner and healthier eating experience. This simple step enhances the overall quality of these nutritious greens.
Foods you should soak before eating (Image Credits: Canva)
Legumes
One should also soak beans and lentils before cooking them. It softens their texture, reduces cooking time and removes phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, making them more digestible. Rinsing thoroughly after soaking eliminates residual anti-nutrients, ensuring a nutritious and easily digestible meal.
Oats
Soaking chickpeas before eating is essential to unlock their nutritional benefits. Soaking helps to break down phytic acid, a compound that inhibits nutrient absorption and reduces cooking time. It also makes chickpeas easier to digest, reduces the risk of bloating and discomfort and allows better nutrient absorption.

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