Last Updated on September 18, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A video on social media asserts a particular claim about eating almonds. We fact checked it and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The claim
The video , posted by upgradewith_sadhguru2.0, garnered over 60.2k likes and features Jagdish Vasudev, commonly known as Sadhguru. The video claims that the sprouting of almonds leads to the emergence of carcinogenic substances on their surface as a result of self defence mechanism used against insects or animals. The suggested course of action, as per the video, is that individuals should exclusively consume soaked almonds after thoroughly peeling off their skin.
Fact Check
Do almonds possess any self defense mechanism ?
Yes, almond trees possess several self-defense mechanisms that help protect them from potential threats. One of the primary defense strategies of this trees involves the production of compounds that can be toxic or unpalatable to herbivores. Almond skins, for example, contain substances like tannins and phenolic compounds that contribute to their slightly bitter taste. These compounds can act as deterrents, reducing the likelihood of animals consuming the outer protective layer of the nut.
Do carcinogenic substances come to the surface when the almonds sprout?
No, carcinogenic substances do not typically come to the surface when almonds sprout. The sprouting process of almonds involves the activation of enzymes and changes in the nut’s composition as it starts to grow into a new plant. As part of the natural growth cycle of plants, this process has nothing to do with the release of carcinogenic substances.
A 1982 study showed…..
A 67-year-old woman with a weight of 60 kg was diagnosed with large bowel carcinoma a year prior to her hospitalisation. Although the tumour was not operable, the patient said no both to surgical intervention and consideration of chemotherapy. Over eight months leading up to her hospitalisation, she independently used injectable Laetrile from Mexico. She later switched to Laetrile tablets due to cost, taking them inconsistently. About two weeks prior to her current ailment, she was given bitter almonds by a friend, claiming to enhance her protein intake. After consuming the almonds, she experienced symptoms of light-headedness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. This episode subsided, but she repeated the process with 12 bitter almonds, resulting in severe abdominal pain and collapse. Paramedics administered naloxone hydrochloride and dextrose solution en route to the hospital, which proved ineffective. Upon arrival at the emergency room, the patient was unresponsive and incontinent. She received treatments. Her pulmonary condition improved, and she was eventually extubated. Blood samples revealed cyanide levels and methemoglobin percentages, plotted over time with respect to treatment initiation. This case exemplifies severe cyanide intoxication resulting from consuming a lethal dose of bitter almonds.
Do almond skin possess any carcinogenic properties?
No. There is no significant scientific evidence to suggest that almond skins possess carcinogenic properties. Badam are widely known for their nutritional value and health benefits. They are a rich source of healthy fats, protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
“Soaking the nut is harmless and not cancer-causing; it actually enhances its digestibility.” said Dr Kavitha Jain, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at Rangadore Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru. Almonds’ skin contain various compounds such as antioxidants and dietary fibre, which contribute to their potential health-promoting effects. Carcinogenic properties in foods are typically associated with the presence of certain chemicals or substances that have been proven to increase the risk of cancer. Almonds and their skins are not commonly known to have carcinogenic compounds.
According to Nutritionist Swati Dave, “The skin of badam contains anti-nutrients like tannins and phytic acid. Soaking badam in water, along with a touch of an acidic medium like vinegar or lemon juice, reduces the presence of phytic acid. This soaking process can effectively neutralize phytic acid in as little as 7 hours. However, it’s important to be cautious regarding almond treatment. The use of harsh and poor-quality chemicals during treatment may result in potential exposure to the carcinogen called ‘acrylamide’ when consumed in significant quantities. Considering these factors, it’s advisable to opt for soaked badams. Choosing soaked almonds over raw or roasted is a healthier option. Soaked badams are not just easier to chew, they also aid the digestive system by facilitating easier breakdown.”
According to Botanist Nidhi Singh, “Both raw and roasted nuts are an ideal addition to most diets. They are a good source of beneficial nutrients such as Vitamin E, manganese, and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, but like everything in life they should be consumed in moderation. Nuts like almonds, Brazil nuts and pistachio also contain trace amounts of acrylamide and a mycotoxin aflatoxin which can get accumulated in the consumers body with prolonged high exposure (if consumed in large quantities). Both animal and epidemiological studies show strong association between aflatoxin and liver cancer. The good news is that studies also show that soaking, sprouting, roasting or fermenting nuts and grains lowers the presence of aflatoxin significantly.”
Voomika Mukherjee, a Health & Nutrition Life Coach says there is no scientific evidence suggesting that soaking almond skin contains any carcinogenic components. Almond skins are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and other beneficial compounds. In fact, they are often considered to have potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes because of it’s omega-3 properties.”
In addition, there are few studies that have linked the association between cancer prevention and almonds (nut), especially prostate, breast and colon cancer. Similarly, almonds also contain salicylates. As salicin is naturally-occurring salicylate, it is believed that almonds can cure headaches or even migraine completely. THIP Media has done a similar fact check that debunked the claim that Almond milk cause cyanide poisoning.
THIP Media Take: Following thorough research and consultation with experts, we can conclude that almonds are a highly popular nut consumed worldwide. Furthermore, there is a lack of compelling scientific evidence suggesting that almond skins play a role in the development of cancer.
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.
