Crunchy, tasty almonds have long been a popular snack and ingredient. But did you know that soaking raw almonds overnight and consuming them the next morning could provide amazing beauty benefits? Almonds are packed with skin-nourishing vitamins, minerals and nutrients that flood out more efficiently after soaking. Eating just a handful of soaked almonds daily can lead to noticeable improvements in your complexion over time. From combating acne, dullness, and early aging to boosting glow and moisture levels, read on to discover the benefits of eating soaked almonds for skin.
Packed With Antioxidants
Almonds are loaded with antioxidants that counteract oxidative stress caused by things like pollution, smoking, too much sun exposure and unhealthy diets. This internal damage leads to accelerated aging including fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and sagging skin.
Powerful antioxidants like Vitamin E neutralize free radicals before they wreak havoc on cells. Just an ounce of almonds contains almost 40% of the recommended daily intake. Soaking boosts antioxidant availability so more gets absorbed by your body.
Fights Acne & Breakouts
Soaked almonds are great for acne-prone skin. Firstly, they boast antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents that curb breakouts and reduce angry red pimples. Secondly, almonds are rich in zinc which speeds up wound healing so those pesky zits disappear quicker.
Almonds also have almost 60% of your RDI for vitamin E which has been scientifically shown to improve acne. The healthy fats present boost skin moisture and lock it in so your complexion stays dewy and breakout-free.
Boosts Skin Elasticity
Did you know almonds are packed with copper? Just an ounce knocks out almost 50% of the RDA. This vital mineral ramps up collagen and elastin production to maintain youthful skin elasticity. It also protects against UV damage and environmental aggressors trying to degrade these structural proteins.
Additionally, the abundance of vitamins E, C and B complex found in almonds safeguards elasticity to prevent sagging. They neutralize free radicals while facilitating collagen formation through enzyme reactions.
Brightens Skin Tone & Fades Marks
Dull, uneven and blotchy complexion? Soaked almonds can help! They’re loaded with niacin or vitamin B3 which research indicates improves skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation issues over time. Niacin boosts circulation which quickens cell turnover. This replaces old, damaged cells with fresh ones for even tone.
Almonds also supply ample vitamin E which inhibits excess melanin production to combat pigmentation problems. Meanwhile, antioxidants in general shield skin from particulates trying to trigger more melanin formation via inflammation pathways. This multimodal action can steadily fade dark spots and discoloration.
Nourishes With Healthy Fats
Almonds contain abundant oleic acid and linoleic fatty acids that deeply nourish the skin’s moisture barrier. This barrier prevents water loss for a dewy, supple complexion resistant to dryness and wrinkling. The omega fatty acids also curb inflammation which translates to fewer breakouts and sensitivity issues.
Furthermore, almonds boast lots of vitamins A and E – both needed to harness healthy fats for absorption through skin pathways. Soaked almonds unleash more fats so your complexion reaps more nourishing and hydrating benefits.
Protects Against UV Damage
We all know UV exposure is Public Skin Enemy #1 as it degrades collagen, causes pigmentation and accelerates aging. Luckily, almonds contain UV-shielding nutrients like vitamin E, selenium and copper which strengthen skin’s defenses against sun damage.
Vitamin E minimizes cell mutations that can trigger skin cancer while renewing skin cell structures. Selenium and copper facilitate repair of UV-induced DNA damage and cell death pathways. The end result? Your skin stays smoother and younger-looking despite sun exposure when fortified with soaked almonds.
Minimizes Under Eye Circles & Puffiness
If dark under eye circles and puffy eye bags make you look tired and aged, start eating soaked almonds regularly. Almonds are jam-packed with skin-rejuvenating nutrients like niacin, zinc and vitamins C and E. Vitamin C boosts collagen production to firm up thin undereye skin prone to circles.
Meanwhile, niacin and zinc enhance circulation and blood flow to minimize pooled blood and lymph fluid under eyes – a prime culprit behind puffy eye bags. Vitamin E strengthens delicate skin capillaries in the area as an antioxidant. Soaked almonds unleash more of these beautifying nutrients from within the nut to tackle tired eyes.
Lightens Age Spots & Evens Skin Texture
Did you know almonds have skin-lightening and texture-perfecting superpowers when soaked? They supply alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs which are often used in chemical peels and anti-aging formulas. AHAs like glycolic and citric acids smooth rough skin texture and fade age spots by quickening cell turnover.
Soaked almonds also provide vitamins B3 and E which even out mottled skin tone by blocking excess melanin production and protecting against UV-damage. The result is a brighter, more even complexion minus the flaky, rough texture as you mature.
Prevents Premature Aging & Wrinkling
Almonds are nutritional powerhouses when it comes to curbing premature aging and wrinkles. Two key nutrients – copper and vitamin E – are unleashed more potently after soaking to shield your skin. Copper activates enzymes key to synthesizing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid which all plump up skin and prevent wrinkling.
Meanwhile, vitamin E minimizes cell damage from free radicals that degrade these structural proteins. It also facilitates new collagen formation as an antioxidant. Furthermore, the healthy fats present boost moisture retention and elasticity for fewer lines and sagging as you age.
Lowers Skin Inflammation & Sensitivity
Soaked almonds can curb irritated, sensitive and inflammation-prone skin issues like rosacea thanks to abundant vitamin E, zinc and healthy fats present. Vitamin E repairs damage to skin tissues and lipids while zinc calms aggravated nerves triggering flushing and burning. Meanwhile omega fats strengthen skin cell membranes making them less reactive to triggers.
Soaked almonds also encourage anti-inflammatory bacteria growth in the gut which then lowers inflammatory marker secretion throughout the body – including the skin. This translates to fewer flare-ups of sensitive skin disorders.
How To Soak & Eat Almonds For Best Results
Now that you know the many skin benefits, let’s look at the best practices for soaking and eating almonds:
- Choose Raw, Organic Almonds
This ensures maximum nutrient content without pesticides or heat damage during processing. Choose whole almonds with skin intact or blanched slivered almonds without skin as you prefer.
- Soak 6-8 Hours or Overnight
Place almonds in a bowl and cover with 2 cups filtered water per cup of nuts. Soak for 6-8 hours at room temperature or ideally overnight in the fridge. Drain and lightly rinse afterward.
- Chew Thoroughly Before Swallowing
Chewing well breaks down cell walls so you absorb nutrients better. Otherwise they’ll pass through undigested. Slow down and chew each bite 20-30 times.
- Eat 20-30 Grams Daily
Aim for 20-30 g of soaked almonds daily for skin benefits. This equals about 1 ounce or a small handful. Too many nuts can cause digestive issues so don’t overdo portions.
- Store Properly After Soaking
Place unused soaked almonds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Discard and remake a fresh batch after this as moist warmth encourages mold growth. Don’t freeze soaked nuts.
- Enjoy As Is, Sprinkle On Dishes or Blend Into Smoothies
The simplest way is eating soaked almonds plain as a snack. But you can also use them in various ways like sprinkled onto oatmeal, salads, yogurt or baked goods. For smoothies, grind them into almond butter first for better blending.
- Stay Consistent for Best Results
It takes up to 3 months of daily soaked almond consumption to notice significant skin improvements so aim for consistency. Taking biotin or collagen supplements as well enhances inner-outer skin nourishment efforts.
FAQs
Are soaked almonds better for you than regular almonds?
Yes. Soaking neutralizes enzyme inhibitors allowing your body to absorb 20-30% more nutrients available inside the nuts including key ones for skin health and beauty. The softer texture also makes nutrients more bioavailable.
What happens when you soak almonds in water overnight?
Soaking raw almonds for 6-8 hours or overnight causes them to swell up and soften as they absorb the surrounding water. This wakes up enzymes, breaks down phytic acid bridging nutrients together and makes minerals/vitamins more absorbable.
Do you have to soak almonds before eating them?
It’s best practice to soak raw almonds before eating if you want maximum nutrient bioavailability but not mandatory. Soaking unleashes more antioxidants, vitamins and minerals benefitting skin and overall health. Skip soaking if short on time.
How many soaked almonds should you eat in a day?
About 20-30 grams of soaked almonds daily (1 ounce) provides sufficient quantities of topical skin nutrients without overdoing calories or fiber. This equals around 20 small almond kernels or a small handful. Too many may cause bloating or digestive upset.
Are almonds good for your face/skin?
Definitely! Almonds nourish skin incredibly well from the inside out. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins combating acne, sensitivity, dryness, uneven tone, early wrinkling plus collagen/elastin-boosting minerals. Just be sure to soak raw almonds first to maximize nutrient bioavailability benefitting skin.
In closing
Incorporating just a daily handful of overnight-soaked raw almonds into your diet can transform lackluster complexions within weeks. Almonds are nutritional powerhouses filled with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that enhance skin health and appearance in myriad ways when absorbed efficiently.
Indulge in our collection of all-season available dry fruits specially curated for diabetic patients, including soaked almonds, which not only cater to your dietary needs but also offer a delicious route to revitalized, youthful skin at any age—promoting clearer skin, fading dark marks, boosted moisture, and fewer fine lines. So, prioritize your skin’s health and start soaking almonds tonight for a flavorful and nutritious treat.
