Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating soaked almonds fight cancer. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that eating four overnight soaked almonds daily is beneficial. It improves brain function and fights cancer.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
Are soaked almonds beneficial to health?
Soaking dried fruits is good for health. It helps break down nutrients that might stop the body from using nutrients properly. It can make the nutrients easier for your body to absorb.
Likewise, the soaked almonds have better nutritional value and are easier to chew. They improve digestion by neutralizing enzyme inhibitors and tannins, making them easier to digest. It may also enhance nutrient absorption by reducing phytic acid content. A research paper has shown that soaked almonds can reduce phytic acid in the body. Reducing it can prevent the absorption of other nutrients. However, further studies are needed to understand the mechanism behind the benefit of soaked almonds against phytic acid.
Moreover, some people find soaked almonds soft and more palatable.
Umesh Wadhawani, Nutritionist, says, “Almonds are an excellent source of omega 3 and other essential fatty acids. These nutrients are good for brain and mental health. Consuming them soaked can increase their nutrient value and improve digestibility. Almonds contain nutrients and must be consumed daily to maintain better health.”
Can soaked almonds fight cancer?
Not exactly. There is no evidence that suggests soaked almonds can fight cancer. However, almonds may reduce the risk of cancer as they are rich in several nutrients. The studies are still few in number, and reports on the efficacy of almonds against cancer still leave many aspects to be resolved.
In another fact check, we have discussed that almonds can prevent certain cancers. This fact check discuses that almonds can have a protective role against prostate, breast and colon cancer. This means almonds have anti-cancer properties, so people can incorporate them in their diet. However, it is important to understand that almonds cannot provide 100% immunity against all types of cancers.
Even though almonds, including soaked almonds, are a nutritious food and part of a healthy diet, it is essential to approach claims about specific foods preventing or fighting cancer with caution. The relationship between diet and cancer is complex and multifactorial.
The overall impact of almonds on cancer prevention or treatment is unclear, and it is important to consider them as part of a healthy diet. Moreover, there is no significant scientific evidence to suggest that almond skins possess carcinogenic properties.
Dr Kavitha Jain, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at Rangadore Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru informs, “Soaking the nut is harmless and not cancer-causing. It actually enhances the digestibility. Almond skin contain various compounds such as antioxidants and dietary fibre which contribute to their potential health-promoting effects”.
Dr. Sarthak Moharir, Chief Radiation Oncologist Apollo Cancer Centre, Bilaspur further adds, “Special diet or diet modifications do not cure cancer. Diet is very important for patients undergoing cancer treatment and it is advised they take a balanced meal with all macros and micronutrients as prescribed by their dietary counsellor.”
The American Society of Cancer website informs that cancer treatment depends on several factors such as cancer type, stage, available treatment options, and other important variables. So, people cannot rely on almonds to fight against cancer.
Can eating a specific food prevent cancer?
It may. Cancer is a complex disease influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. The best approach to reduce the risk of cancer includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and getting regular check-ups.
Most of these inputs which influences known mechanisms of cancer development can be modulated through diet. For instance, some foods, like those with antioxidants, protect our DNA from damage by harmful things called free radicals. Moreover, foods that fight inflammation are also good because they help calm down the body. Similarly, eating too much red meat can affect our hormones and make the risk of cancer go up. But if we eat healthy foods, it can help with problems like insulin resistance and inflammation, lowering the chances of getting cancer. In addition to these, eating foods with fiber is good for our gut and can lower the risk of cancer too.
It is now well established that lifestyle habits cause several human cancers. As a consequence, diet in particular has received increasing attention as many people wish to identify food that either increases or decreases the risk of cancer. To this, Nutritionist Wadhawani adds, “No single food item can cause or prevent a chronic health condition. It is the amalgamation of various factors including your diet, daily routine, workplace stress, relationships, sleep, movement, etc., that affect health”.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
