Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
Is Drinking Fig Soaked Water Really Effective?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Nutrition
Question #9593
216 days ago
484

Is Drinking Fig Soaked Water Really Effective? - #9593

Aria

For years now, I’ve been struggling with digestive issues that seem to get worse no matter what I do. My main problems are bloating, constipation, and occasional stomach cramps, especially after meals. Someone recently suggested drinking fig soaked water as a natural remedy for digestion. They swore it helped them feel lighter and more regular, but I’m skeptical because I’ve tried so many remedies before that haven’t worked. Here’s my current situation: I eat what I thought was a decent diet—plenty of veggies, fruits, and some whole grains—but my digestion still feels sluggish. I’ve been on and off fiber supplements, probiotics, and even over-the-counter laxatives. These things help for a short time, but the bloating and constipation always return. Drinking fig soaked water sounds simple enough, but is it actually effective for long-term digestive health? I read that soaking figs overnight helps release their nutrients into the water and makes them easier to digest. If I start drinking fig soaked water, how long should I soak the figs? Some people say six hours is enough, while others recommend overnight. Also, do I eat the soaked figs along with drinking the water, or do I just throw them away? Another thing I’ve heard is that drinking fig soaked water can help with weight management. Is that true? I’ve been trying to lose a few pounds, and if this remedy can help with both digestion and weight, I’d love to try it. But I’m also worried if figs are too sugary for someone trying to watch their calorie intake. I’m curious about how drinking fig soaked water affects people with specific conditions. For example, I have mild acidity issues, and I’m worried this might aggravate it. Are there any side effects of drinking fig soaked water? Is it safe for someone with a sensitive stomach? Lastly, I’d like to know how often I need to drink fig soaked water to see results. Should I do it daily, or is a few times a week enough? Also, can it replace my morning coffee, or should I drink it at a different time of day for the best effect? If this really works, I’d be so happy to have a natural remedy for my digestive issues. But I don’t want to waste time on something that might not suit me. What are your thoughts on drinking fig soaked water, and do you have any tips to maximize its benefits?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Fig soaked water can be effective for digestion due to the high fiber and nutrients figs provide. The water helps promote regular bowel movements and reduce bloating.

How to Prepare: Soak 2-3 dried figs in water overnight. The figs will release nutrients, and the water becomes easier to digest. Drink the water in the morning, and you can also eat the figs for added fiber, though some prefer to discard them. Benefits: It can improve digestion and may assist with weight management due to the fiber content, but figs are naturally sweet, so consume in moderation if watching calories. It may help with mild acidity, but always start with a small amount to check for any discomfort, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Frequency: Drink fig soaked water daily for consistent results. It’s best to consume it in the morning before breakfast to help kickstart digestion. Side Effects: Generally safe, but for those with sensitive stomachs, start slowly and monitor for any irritation or bloating. Conclusion: Fig soaked water can help with digestion, bloating, and constipation. Start with daily consumption and adjust based on your body’s response. It can replace your morning coffee if desired.

11913 answered questions
78% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
215 days ago
4.83

Fig-soaked water can be an effective natural remedy for improving digestion, as figs are high in fiber, antioxidants, and enzymes that help promote regular bowel movements and reduce bloating. Soaking the figs overnight is typically recommended, as it allows the nutrients to be released into the water, making it easier for your digestive system to absorb. You can drink the water and eat the figs if desired, as they are rich in fiber, but if you prefer, you can discard the figs after soaking. For those concerned about sugar intake, figs do contain natural sugars, but in moderate amounts, they shouldn’t significantly impact your calorie count. As for acidity, figs are generally soothing and can help balance stomach pH, but if you have a particularly sensitive stomach, it’s best to start with small amounts and monitor how you feel. Drinking fig-soaked water daily is usually recommended to see long-term results, but it can be adjusted based on your body’s response. If it works for you, it could be a good substitute for coffee in the morning, especially if you find it gentle on your digestive system. To maximize its benefits, consider incorporating other Ayurvedic practices for digestion, like warm water or herbal teas after meals, and avoid heavy or overly processed foods that may counteract its effects.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers

0 replies

Alright, here’s the thing about fig soaked water. It’s a pretty darn simple and natural option for digestive health, so there’s little harm in giving it a try. Figs are enriched with fiber, and when you soak them overnight, it not only makes them easier to digest but also helps release some soluble fiber into the water, which can boost your digestion. Given your bloating and constipation, the fiber in figs might just be what your gut needs.

Now about logistics: overnight soaking is generally the norm—six to eight hours should do it, though overnight ensures they’re well softened. In the morning, consume both the water and the figs. The fiber from the figs could be more effective if you eat them, rather than just chucking 'em away. In Ayurveda, food combining and timing is key, so you might wanna consider having this on an empty stomach to maximize the absorption of its nutrients.

As for weight management, figs are a bit of a double-edged sword. They’re fibrous which can help in weight loss by keeping you full, but they also carry natural sugars. So if you’re watchin’ calories, balance is crucial. One or two figs with their water should be enough.

On to your question about acidity and a sensitive stomach: figs are generally alkaline-forming, so they might actually help with acidity. But every individual’s digestion is different—listen to your body. If you feel any discomfort, ease off and consult with someone knowledgeable.

Frequency? You might want to start with every other day to see how your system reacts and then adjust accordingly. No need to replace your morning coffee with this; just incorporate it into your routine at a time that feels right to you.

As with any natural remedy, results can vary based on your unique constitution, or ‘prakriti’ in Ayurvedic terms. But, if combined with a balanced diet, and mindful eating habits, fig soaked water could be a gentle and nurturing addition to your routine. Give it a shot — sometimes the simplest solutions end up making the most difference. If you hit any stumbling blocks or need tweaking, don’t hesitate to check back with a professional for advice tailored just for you.

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Maitri Bhavesh Kumar Acharya
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. Maitri, currently in my 2nd year of MD in Dravyaguna, and yeah, I run my own Ayurvedic clinic in Ranoli where I’ve been seeing patients for 2 years now. Honestly, what pulled me into this path deeper is how powerful herbs really are—when used right. Not just randomly mixing churnas but actually understanding their rasa, virya, vipaka etc. That’s kinda my zone, where textbook knowledge meets day-to-day case handling. My practice revolves around helping people with PCOD, acne, dandruff, back pain, stiffness in knees or joints that never seem to go away. And I don’t jump to giving a long list of medicines straight away—first I spend time figuring out their prakriti, their habits, food cycle, what triggers what… basically all the small stuff that gets missed. Then comes the plan—herbs (single or compound), some diet reshuffling, and always some lifestyle nudges. Sometimes they’re tiny, like sleep timing. Sometimes big like proper seasonal detox. Being into Dravyaguna helps me get into the depth of herbs more confidently. I don’t just look at the symptom—I think okay what guna will counter this? Should the drug be snigdha, ushna, tikta? Is there a reverse vipaka that’ll hurt the agni? I ask these questions before writing any combo. That’s made a huge diff in outcomes. Like I had this case of chronic urticaria that would flare up every week, and just tweaking the herbs based on sheetala vs ushna nature... helped calm the system in 3 weeks flat. Not magic, just logic. I also work with women who are struggling with hormonal swings, mood, delayed periods or even unexplained breakouts. When hormones go haywire, the skin shows, digestion slows, and mind gets foggy too. I keep my approach full-circle—cleansing, balancing, rejuvenating. No quick fixes, I tell them early on. What I’m hoping to do more of now is make Ayurveda feel practical. Not overwhelming. Just simple tools—ahara, vihara, aushadha—used consistently, with some trust in the body’s own healing. I’m still learning, still refining, but honestly, seeing people feel in control of their health again—that’s what keeps me rooted to this.
5
189 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am an Ayurvedic doctor who kinda grew into this path naturally—my roots are in Kerala, and I did my internship at VPSV Ayurveda College in Kottakkal, which honestly was one of the most eye-opening stages of my life. That place isn’t just a college, it’s a deep well of real Ayurveda. The kind that’s lived, not just studied. During my time there, I didn’t just observe—I *practiced*. Diagnosing, treating, understanding the patient beyond their symptoms, all that hands-on stuff that textbooks don’t really teach. It’s where I learned the rhythm of classical Kerala Ayurveda, the art of pulse reading, and how Panchakarma ain’t just about detox but more about deep repair. I work closely with patients—always felt more like a guide than just a doctor tbh. Whether it's about fixing a chronic issue or preventing one from happening, I focus on the full picture. I give a lot of attention to diet (pathya), routine, mental clutter, and stress stuff. Counseling on these isn’t an ‘extra’—I see it as a part of healing. And not the preachy kind either, more like what works *for you*, your lifestyle, your space. Also yeah—I’m a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence. This kinda allowed me to mix mindfulness with medicine, which I find super important, especially in today’s distracted world. I integrate meditation where needed—some patients need a virechana, some just need to breathe better before they sleep. There’s no one-size-fits-all and I kinda like that part of my job the most. I don’t claim to know it all, but I listen deeply, treat with care, and stay true to the Ayurvedic principles I was trained in. My role feels less about ‘curing’ and more about nudging people back to their natural balance... it’s not quick or flashy, but it feels right.
5
98 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
318 reviews
Dr. Ankit Khandelwal
I am practicing Ayurveda since 3 years now, and tbh even though that number looks small on paper—it sure feels way more intense when you think of the daily exposure to different conditions, people, energies. I focus mainly on holistic wellness, with a strong bend toward balancing the body-mind equation. Sometimes ppl ask if I only give herbs but truthfully it’s more about understanding the why behind the illness... not just the what. My work usually involve personalized treatment planning, where I mix classical Ayurvedic concepts—like dosha analysis, ahara-vihara (diet & lifestyle), and detox via Panchakarma—based on how the person is living right now. That dynamic bit matters. One patient with acidity might need total food overhaul. Another? Just better sleep and breath practices. I learnt to not jump into “fixing” unless I’m hearing fully. The past 3 years taught me to observe subtle signs more deeply. Like the small fatigue before full-blown fatigue. I don’t claim big breakthroughs, but I’ve seen lives shift—chronic migraines fading, IBS calming down, periods regularising, skin healing slowly from inside-out. And that feels huge. Every day kinda grows me. Whether it’s a simple consultation, or longer therapies, I try to keep things real, rooted, and not rushed. And yes there’s still lot to explore. But I’m in this for the long run and I want ppl to know that healing doesn’t mean perfection—it just means balance, awareness, and the willingness to start.
0 reviews
Dr. Deepali Goswami
I am Dr. Deepali Goswami, BAMS graduate n working mainly around women's health. Right now m running my own clinic where i treat all kind of gyne problems—from irregular periods to PCOD, white discharge, fertility-related issues, menopausal symptoms n lot more that affects everyday life of females. I usually try to keep the language simple while dealing with patients cause honestly half of them come already confused or like really scared of what's happening inside their body... and if I use too much technical terms it just make it worse. I’ve been practicing in this space for couple of years now—don’t remember the exact month, maybe two or three year back? but anyway, what matters is I’ve seen how many of these problems get ignored till they turn serious. That’s something I feel strongly about. My goal is to help women understand their symptoms early and explain how Ayurveda can help gently but properly, whether it’s hormonal stuff or pain or cycle issues. I use classic Ayurvedic concepts like dosha analysis, ritucharya, n yoni vyapad chikitsa wherever it fits, but sometimes modern lifestyle really needs to be factored in too. Like if someone working night shift, no point telling them to wake up at 5am and do abhyanga daily—it won’t work. I’m practical about it. Anyway, I try my best to create a space where women feel heard. Lot of them said nobody actually explained them what’s going on before. And that’s like the saddest part. I feel my biggest strength is really just listening n tailoring the treatment to her routine, diet n stress pattern. Some cases are harder of course... things don’t always go fast, esp when it’s been neglected for yrs. But then Ayurveda’s not magic. It takes a little time—but results feel real n lasting when done right.
5
12 reviews
Dr. Arun Desai
I am Dr. Arun Desai, working in Ayurveda for 19+ years now, both online and offline. My clinic, Ayur Sanjivani, is at #44 B 1, Opp Adarsh Laundry, beside Tej Residency, near Kavalemath Somwaar Peth Cross in Tilakwadi, Belgaum – bit of a long address but patients seem to find it just fine. Over time I’ve learned that people today want relief fast but still safe and lasting. That’s where I mix the depth of classical Ayurveda with practical tweaks to suit this fast moving lifestyle. I don’t like giving something that just masks a symptom – I want to get to the root cause whenever possible. At the clinic, I try to keep things warm and easy to talk, not a stiff doctor’s table vibe. Whether it’s diagnosis, a Panchakarma session, or simple counseling, I want patients to feel they can ask anything, even small doubts. Education matters too – when someone understands why a certain diet or lifestyle change is needed, they actually follow it better. Treatments may include herbal formulations, diet charts, yoga routines, exercise plans, detox, anti-stress work – all depending on their prakruti and condition. Over the years, I’ve treated people from many walks of life – each case different, which keeps me learning. Some come for joint pain, some for skin problems, others for lifestyle disorders like diabetes or high BP. I still follow authentic Ayurvedic principles but adapt them so they work in today’s reality. And yes, I’m always updating my knowledge, making sure the practice stays ethical and effective, because for me, Ayurveda isn’t just treatment – it’s a way to help someone rebuild their health from inside out.
5
70 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
325 reviews
Dr. Khushboo
I am someone who kinda started out in both worlds—Ayurveda and allopathy—and that mix really shaped how I see health today. My clinical journey began with 6 months of hands-on allopathic exposure at District Hospital Sitapur. Honestly, that place was intense. Fast-paced, high patient flow, constant cases of chronic and acute illnesses coming through. That taught me a lot about how to see disease. Not just treat it, but like… notice the patterns, get better at real-time diagnosis, really listen to what the patient isn’t saying out loud sometimes. It gave me this sharper sense of clinical grounding which I think still stays with me. Then I moved more deeply into Ayurveda and spent another 6 months diving into clinical training focused on Panchakarma therapies. Stuff like Abhyanga, Basti, Shirodhara—learned those not just as a list of techniques, but how and when to use 'em, especially for detox and deep healing. Every case felt like a different puzzle. There wasn’t always one right answer, you know? And that’s where I found I loved adapting protocols based on what the person actually needed, not just what the textbook says. Alongside that, I got certified in Garbha Sanskar through structured training. That really pulled me closer to maternal health. Pregnancy support through Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs or massage, it’s like this entire way of guiding a mother-to-be toward nourishing the baby right from conception—emotionally, physically, all of it. That part stuck with me hard. My overall approach? It’s kinda fluid. I believe in balancing natural therapies and evidence-based thinking. Whether it's seasonal imbalance, hormonal issues, Panchakarma detox plans, or just guiding someone on long-term wellness—I like making people feel safe, heard, and actually understood. I’m not into rushing plans or masking symptoms. I’d rather work together with someone to build something sustainable that really suits their body and where they’re at. In a way, I’m still learning every day. But my focus stays the same—use Ayurvedic wisdom practically, compassionately, and in a way that just... makes sense in real life.
5
63 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
47 reviews

Latest reviews

Leo
2 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed reply. Your clear and reassuring explanation really helped calm our nerves and point us in the right direction.
Thanks for the detailed reply. Your clear and reassuring explanation really helped calm our nerves and point us in the right direction.
Owen
18 hours ago
Really appreciate the swift answer! It's nice to know we should consult an ayurvedic doctor nearby for more info. Thanks for the help!
Really appreciate the swift answer! It's nice to know we should consult an ayurvedic doctor nearby for more info. Thanks for the help!
Christian
18 hours ago
Really appreciate the straightforward advice. It felt comforting to know there’s potential help with Ayurveda, will surely look into it.
Really appreciate the straightforward advice. It felt comforting to know there’s potential help with Ayurveda, will surely look into it.
James
18 hours ago
Thanks so much for the advice. It's a relief to have a clear idea about the next steps. Really appreciate the help!
Thanks so much for the advice. It's a relief to have a clear idea about the next steps. Really appreciate the help!