Why Buy Sprouted Nuts and Flour?

Are you wondering if sprouted nuts and flours are really better for you than regular old nuts and flours? Sprouted nuts and flours are becoming increasingly more popular and for a good reason. Sprouting actually brings nuts and seeds to life whereby they germinate and sprout. The process that the nuts and seeds go through makes it so their minerals are more bio-available to our bodies. More specifically, sprouting creates active enzymes. Without water, the enzymes lay dormant. The reason that sprouted nuts and seeds are better for you is because the active enzymes help with digestion and may increase your overall energy. Nuts also contain phytic acid, an anti-nutrient found in the bran of nuts and seeds that binds with minerals like calcium and iron, which prevents their absorption. Phytic acid is neutralized by the sprouting process, which can help with mineral absorption.

You can actually sprout your own seeds and nuts by soaking them in water for at least 7 hours. After they are done soaking, drain the water and place them in a jar with a lid. Rinse them at least twice a day until you see them start to germinate. You can take it one step further by roasting or dehydrating them for a healthy, crunchy, snack or to make nut butters.

To be honest, it is easier to buy sprouted products instead of making them on your own. Below you will find a few of my favorite ways to incorporate sprouted nuts, seeds, and flours into my diet:

• Sprouted pumpkin seeds. I love to top salads with pumpkin seeds for an added boost of protein, fat, fiber, and iron.

• Sprouted almonds. One of my favorite snacks is almonds and goji berries. I also like to throw a handful of almonds into my morning smoothie.

• Sprouted quinoa. Sprouted quinoa is my new favorite living food! Quinoa is great on top of salads, served cold as a composed salad, or as a savory breakfast with berries.

• Sprouted wheat flour. Try buying sprouted wheat flour to make banana bread for your kids. They are sure to love it!

The more live foods we can get into our diet the better. Try it and see if your energy increases after incorporating more sprouted products into your diet. I highly recommend buying a few sprouted products the next time you go to the grocery store, or plan ahead, and try sprouting on your own!