Nuts and seeds are nutritional powerhouses. We should try to sneak some into our diets as much as possible! However, most people don’t know the one technique to get the most out of these superfoods: soaking.
NUTS & SEEDS
Nuts and seeds are full of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They aid in our digestion, strengthen tissue, and can even reduce cholesterol. Among the most popular include hazelnuts (which regulate blood sugar), pistachios (rich in iron), pine nuts (high in vitamin B1), and cashews (rich in magnesium). You might also be familiar with sesame seeds (contain calcium), flax seeds (rich in essential fats), and pumpkin seeds (ideal for intestinal regulation).
WHY SOAK THEM?
Nuts and seeds contain phytic acids and enzyme inhibitors. These substances protect the nut or seed, preventing it from sprouting prematurely until it encounters the optimum growing conditions. Good thing there’s a simple and natural way to full harness all of their health benefits!
Moisture is like nature’s go-ahead for the nut or seed to start growing. By soaking them, you mimic the natural process. Unsoaked nuts, on the other hand, may still contain these phytic acids. This can keep your body from absorbing all the nutrients and make it more difficult to digest.
Here are our suggested soaking times:
Hazelnuts: 8 hours
Sunflower seeds: 4 hours
Chia seeds: 2 hours
Pumpkin seeds: 6 hours
Pistachios, Cashews: no need to soak
NEED INSPIRATION?
There are many creative ways to incorporate nuts and seeds into your diet! For example, throw a handful of seeds into a smoothie or a cake. You can also add nuts to your breakfast cereal or a vegetarian salad for even more nutrients and flavor.
