Why soak nuts and seeds?

The practice of soaking and sprouting nuts and grains has been around for a long time. It was recommended by Chinese medical doctors for healing illnesses as far back as 5,000 years ago.
So why soak nuts, seeds and grains and sprout them anyways? Why go through the hassle? We are going to focus on answering this question as we explore the benefits of soaking nuts, seeds and grains. However you can also find blogs written on "Why sprout nuts and seeds" and "How to soak nuts and seeds", "How to sprout nuts and seeds".
Today most people soak their nuts, seeds and grains for two reasons.
- Give the digestive system a break.
- Increase the nutrition and profile of consumption.
Phytic acid is located in the hull or exterior of various nuts, seeds and grains. It has a strong binding affinity when it comes to important minerals like zinc, iron, and calcium. In short this makes it challenging for the body to fully absorb the optimal nutrients from eating these wonderful foods. When these vital mineral deficiencies show up in persons body they can begin to cause some serious health imbalances and bone loss.
Soaking nuts, seeds and grains allows enzymes to break down and neutralize the phytic acid. This primarily makes it easier for your body to absorb all the minerals, vitamins and assimilate into the body. Even soaking your Eatnuts.com Nuts, Eatnuts.com Seeds and grains for 30 minutes, if that's all you have, is better then to not soak them at all.
Nut/Seed | Soaking Time | Sprouting Time |
Almond | 8-12 hours | 12 hours |
Cashew | 2-2 1/2 hours | Does not sprout |
Walnut | 4 hours | Does not sprout |
Pecan | 4-6 hours | Does not sprout |
Macadamia | Do not soak | Does not sprout |
Brazil Nut | Do not soak | Does not sprout |
Pine Nut | Do not soak | Does not sprout |
Pistachio | Do not soak | Does not sprout |
Sesame Seeds | 8 hours | 1-2 days |
Flax Seeds | 8 hours | Does not sprout |
Sunflower Seeds | 2 hours | 2-3 days |
Pumpkin Seeds/Pepitas | 8 hours | 1-2 days |
Hemp Seeds | Do not soak | Does not sprout |
By sprouting nuts, seeds and grains we make life much easier on the digestive system and increase the nutritional benefits we are getting from eating these foods
Since every nut and seed is different, the soaking time and sprouting time may vary. Below you will find a table breaking down the ideal soaking time for some commonly eaten varieties.
If you soak nuts, seeds and grains long enough they begin to germinate and sprout. Although there are a few nuts that will sprout, seeds and grains tend to be sprouted more often. Also, remember that the rule to soaking nuts does not apply to every nut out there.
Soaking nuts also modifies the texture and taste of the nut or seed. In fact many people say that they enjoy their nuts and seeds soaked better then not. The sprouting process immediately improves the nutritional profile of the nut or seed. It gives the nut a crispness and aliveness which is inherit to any seed that germinates into a living plant You also want to make sure that when you are soaking any nut or seed that it is raw and not roasted to get the benefits discussed above.
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About the Author
Lisa Saremi is health and wellness coach for Limitless-U and blogger for eatnuts.com. Lisa received training as a Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition's cutting-edge Health Coach Training Program on dietary theories, practical lifestyle management and innovative coaching methods with top health and wellness experts.