You can find many products that are “sprouted” – nut mixes, breads, or flours but what does that mean? Sprouting is essentially germinating seeds and can vary to include grains, nuts, beans and seeds. Consuming these foods comes with many benefits.

Simply put, sprouted seeds are easier to digest than unsprouted because sprouting decreases anti-nutrients that naturally occur in plant seeds. Anti-nutrients protect the seed and help the plant survive against pests and insects. Unfortunately, anti-nutrients interfere with the body’s digestion and absorption of nutrients found in the seeds.  

By eating sprouted grains, seeds, nuts, and beans, you’re increasing your absorption of their nutrients because you’re digesting them better. Nutrients that you can find in sprouted seeds include B vitamins, iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin C and E. Studies have shown by soaking and sprouting beans and grains have shown an increase of vitamin C and E compared to dried grains.

Nuts and seeds can be an excellent source of protein and by eating them in sprouted form, the protein amino acids becomes more absorbable. In addition to this, sprouted foods’ fibre content also becomes more available. Studies have shown that sprouted foods provide more crude fibre which cannot be absorbed in the digestive tract and therefore creates more bulk for your stool.

Sprouted foods can also increase their enzyme and anti-oxidant properties. Studies have shown that sprouted legumes have an increased anti-oxidant level than they would when they were dried. Anti-oxidants are important to fight off free-radicals that contribute to diseases and illnesses.

There are many different ways you can enjoy sprouted seeds. You can sprout your own, or enjoy products that contain sprouted grains, nuts and seeds, like Living Intentions nut mixes.