Soaked chickpea water helps keep the stomach feeling full for a long time, which reduces hunger and helps in weight loss. (Representative Image/AP)Soaking chickpeas allows the water to absorb nutrients, making it rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. This nutrient-filled water can provide a refreshing boost of energyPoepe have long been consuming soaked raw chickpeas and drinking the water. In rural areas, people consider it a part of their daily diet. It is not only seen as a good source of energy but is also regarded as beneficial for everything from digestion to increasing immunity. Is the water of soaked chickpeas really that beneficial?Talking to News18, Dr Rajesh Pathak, a senior Ayurvedic physician from Bokaro in Jharkhand, explained the benefits and disadvantages of consuming soaked raw chickpeas and its water. What are the benefits of soaked chickpea water?Soaking chickpeas allows the water to absorb nutrients, making it rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. This nutrient-filled water can provide a refreshing boost of energy. Dr Pathak says drinking soaked chickpea water offers a quick energy boost. Additionally, eating soaked chickpeas helps improve digestion. The enzymes and fibre in the water aid digestion, relieve constipation and are considered a natural remedy for maintaining a healthy digestive system.Helpful in weight lossSoaked chickpea water helps keep the stomach feeling full for a long time, which reduces hunger and helps in weight loss. Additionally, the fibre in chickpeas helps reduce body fat. The vitamin C and zinc found in soaked chickpeas boost the immune system, protecting against infections and increasing the body’s immunity.Controls blood sugarSoaked chickpea water helps control sugar levels. It has a low glycemic index, which keeps blood sugar stable. This water also boosts metabolism, helping burn calories faster and providing energy to the body. It supports the smooth functioning of the body’s normal processes.What are the disadvantages of soaked chickpea water?Raw chickpeas contain a high amount of fibre and carbohydrates, which can take time for the body to digest. Drinking too much-soaked chickpea water may lead to gas and indigestion.Excess of oxalatesChickpeas contain oxalates, which, in excess, can combine with calcium in the body and increase the risk of kidney stones. If you have kidney problems, it’s best to consult a doctor before consuming soaked chickpea water. Soaking chickpeas for too long can also dissolve some nutrients in the water, reducing their benefits. Therefore, it’s important to soak chickpeas for the right amount of time to retain their nutrients.Possibility of allergySome people may be allergic to chickpeas. If you are allergic, you should avoid drinking soaked chickpea water, as it can cause skin rashes, swelling, or other allergic reactions.How to use it correctly?Soak raw chickpeas in water overnight, then strain the water and drink it in the morning. You can add a pinch of salt or squeeze some lemon to enhance the taste. Be careful not to soak the chickpeas for too long, as this can reduce their nutrients. Drinking a glass of chickpea water daily will provide good energy and support a healthy digestive system.