Nuts, seeds, and grains have things in them called phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors. These are helpful in that they help prevent them from germinating before they're in the proper environment, however, they're not so helpful when we eat them. They bind with minerals and prevent us from digesting them and absorbing all the goodness they have to offer. This can cause nutrient deficiencies and digestive irritation for some people (bloat, the runs, lower belly pain, cramps etc.)
Once nuts and seeds are soaked in salted water they can either be rinsed well and dehydrated at a low temperature (around 115F)to preserve the enzymes, which are destroyed at high heat.
EDIBLE NUTS & SEEDS AND THEIR SOAKING TIMES ~
Soaking releases the enzyme inhibitors in nuts and seeds that basically make them challenge your body's digestion and absorption. Thus, if you want maximum nutrient efficiency and a happy tummy, soak nuts and seeds, then rinse them well!
Soaking releases the enzyme inhibitors in nuts and seeds that basically make them challenge your body's digestion and absorption. Thus, if you want maximum nutrient efficiency and a happy tummy, soak nuts and seeds, then rinse them well!
|
Food |
Soaking Time (Hours) |
|
Almonds |
8 to 12 |
|
Amaranth |
8 |
|
Barley |
6 |
|
Black Beans |
8 to 12 |
|
Brazil Nuts |
3 |
|
Buckwheat |
6 |
|
Cashews |
2 to 4 |
|
Chickpeas |
8 |
|
Hazelnuts |
8 to 12 |
|
Lentils |
7 |
|
Pistachios |
8 |
|
Walnuts |
4 |
|
Sunflowers Seeds |
8 |
|
Wild Rice |
9 |
|
Wheat Berries |
7 |
|
Pumpkin Seeds |
8 |
|
Quinoa |
5 |
|
Radish Seeds |
8 |
|
Pecans |
6 |
|
Millet |
5 |
|
Oat Groats |
6 |
|
Mung Beans |
8 to 12 |