Raw, Roasted, or Soaked? The Best Way to Eat Almonds for 100% Vitamin Absorption
You've probably heard that "almonds are a gold mine." But how would you feel if I told you that you might be throwing away half of this gold without absorbing it into your body?
Many of our customers at Walmond ask: "Do roasted almonds lose their nutrients?" or "Why did grandmothers insist on soaking almonds in water?" The answer to these questions lies in chemistry. In this practical article, we are going to put different almond preparation methods under the microscope so you can learn how to unlock the nutrients of this precious seed and get the most out of your money.
As we mentioned in our comprehensive article [The Secret to Slimming with Almonds and Weight Management], how almonds enter your stomach determines the fate of calories and vitamins. Let's see which method is better for you.
1. Raw Almonds; The Gold Standard for Weight Loss
When you eat almonds exactly as they were picked from the tree (just without the hard wooden shell), you are getting them in their most natural state.
- Main Benefit: Full preservation of healthy fats. Unsaturated fats are sensitive to heat, and in the raw state, they remain 100% healthy and anti-inflammatory.
- Performance in the Body: Raw almonds have a firm and solid texture. Chewing them is harder, and digestion takes longer. This means longer-lasting satiety.
- Who is it for? If your main goal is weight loss or diabetes control, Walmond Raw Almonds are the best option.
2. Soaked Almonds; Hacking the Digestive System
Have you ever felt a heavy stomach after eating nuts? The reason is a substance called "Phytic Acid." Phytic acid is an "anti-nutrient" found in almond skin. Its job in nature is to protect the seed so it doesn't sprout prematurely. But in the human body, this substance binds to calcium, iron, and zinc, preventing these minerals from being absorbed into the blood.
The Magic of Water and Salt (Soaking)
What happens when you soak almonds in water (with a little salt) for 8 to 12 hours?
- Breaking the Lock: Phytic acid is neutralized.
- Enzyme Release: The enzyme "Lipase" is activated, which helps digest fats.
- Soft Texture: The almond becomes crunchy yet juicy, making it ideal for children or the elderly who have weak teeth.
Walmond Tip: If you have anemia or take Zinc supplements, make sure to soak your almonds so your body's iron absorption isn't disrupted.
3. Roasted Almonds; Dancing on the Edge!
No one can deny the magical taste of roasted almonds. Heat releases smoky aromas and makes the texture crunchier. But is this healthy? The answer is "Yes," provided it is done correctly.
The Risk of Acrylamide and Oxidation
If almonds are roasted at very high temperatures (above 130°C / 265°F) or for a long time:
- Healthy fats burn and oxidize (which is harmful to the heart).
- A toxic substance called Acrylamide forms.
- Vitamin E (which is sensitive to heat) is destroyed.
Walmond's Solution: "Home Roasting"
Store-bought roasted almonds are usually full of refined salt and preservatives and roasted with low-quality oils. The Best Way: Buy Walmond Raw Almonds and roast them yourself at home, in a pan over very low heat (for only 5 minutes) just to remove the raw smell, without burning them.
Quick Guide Table: Which Method Suits Me?
| Your Goal | Best Consumption Method | Scientific Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss & Slimming | Raw | Hardest digestion, highest calorie excretion, long satiety |
| Iron & Calcium Absorption | Soaked | Removal of Phytic Acid (absorption blocker), easy digestion |
| Pleasure & Serving | Lightly Roasted (Home-made) | Stronger taste and aroma (watch the salt) |
| Children & Elderly | Soaked & Peeled | Soft texture, prevents stomach ache |
How to Peel Almonds Correctly (Blanching)
Some cooking recipes (like almond slivers or almond milk) require white, peeled almonds. Instead of boiling almonds (which kills vitamins), use this professional method:
- Pour Walmond raw almonds into a bowl.
- Pour boiling water over them and wait for only 1 minute (no more).
- Immediately drain and plunge into ice water (thermal shock).
- Now, with a small finger press, the brown skin separates easily, leaving the white and healthy kernel.
Conclusion
Almonds are beneficial in any state, but the "preparation method" can double their effect or reduce it.
- If you have a sensitive stomach or are looking for maximum vitamin absorption, try Soaking.
- If you are on a weight loss diet, stay loyal to Raw Almonds.
- And if you crave roasted almonds, make them yourself at home with high-quality raw almonds.
Don't forget that the initial quality of the almond is the most important factor. Stale almonds, even if soaked, won't taste good. To start a healthy routine, you can get the freshest Iranian almonds from the Walmond online store: walmondhe.com