by Michelle Pierson
Should We Soak Nuts and Seeds?
If you're new to raw food diet recipes I'm sure you've come across multiple ones calling for nuts and seeds as the main staple. I like to call these transitional recipes, especially for someone changing their eating habits from the Standard American Diet.
Raw food diet recipes containing lots of nuts and seeds are also commonly used for social entertainment functions, so as to entice the novice by mocking texture and taste, similar to their favorite cooked meals.
Nuts and seeds are fine in small quantities but too many can be heavy and taxing on the digestive system, leaving you feeling bloated and/or lethargic.
Applying healthy strategies like soaking nuts and seeds will help ease the strain on your digestive system. This process allows the enzymes inhibitors and phytates to be diminished, while starting the production of beneficial enzymes.
Phytic acid is found in the outer layer or bran. By not soaking and removing the phytic acid, over time may cause your body to inquire mineral deficiencies or bone loss. You may even sprout your nuts and seeds for added cellular nutrition but this can only happen if the seed or nut is truly raw--meaning it has not been heated.
How to Soak Nuts and Seeds
1. Measure the desired amount and place in bowl, fill enough water to generously cover the nuts or seeds. Over the course of a few hours they will absorb the water, so preferably use filtered water and pour enough so that they can soak it up.
2. You may soak overnight or for about 6-8 hours. When the time is up, discard of the soaking water. Do not use! For it contains the enzymes inhibitors which you do not want. After you drain the soaking water, rinse briefly.
3. Depending on what kind of recipe you are using the nuts or seeds for, you may be able to start right away with no need to dry them. Some people place them in a dehydrator, a popular raw foodist appliance that draws the moisture out of the food. This is a great technique if you desire a crunchy taste.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
