Soaking lentils and beans is advisable and beneficial for many reasons: 1. Reduces phytic acids 2. Reduces tannins and polyphenols 3. Promotes production of beneficial enzymes (serves to reduce phytic acids and polyphenols further) 4. Improves the body's ability to absorb minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium 5. Makes proteins more available for absorption 6. Reduces anti-nutritional enzyme inhibitors 7. Removes gas-causing compounds 8. Decreases cooking time and improves food texture