Phytic acid not only grabs on to or chelates important minerals, but also inhibits enzymes that we need to digest our food, including pepsin, needed for the breakdown of proteins in the stomach, and amylase needed for the breakdown of starch into sugar. Trypsin, needed for protein digestion in the small intestine, is also inhibited by phytates.

There is no doubt that nuts are a notoriously healthy snack food. While they once got a bad rap for their high fat content, we’ve gotten over it.

We know nuts are packed with loads of vitamins, some protein, fibre and antioxidants, so they’ve gotten their seal of approval.

There is a downside to most nuts though – phytic acid! In short, phytic acid or phytates bind to minerals that we consume making them difficult for the body to process and utilise properly.

These minerals cannot be absorbed by the body efficiently, basically deeming those good qualities of nuts useless. Over time, a diet high in phytates can lead to severe mineral deficiencies despite a “healthy” diet.

The best of the best

*Macadamia

*Walnuts

*Pistachios

The reason that humans suffer from indigestion and autoimmune reactions from unsprouted foods is because we aren’t designed to break down antinutrients in plant compounds that lock up or deplete vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Regularly consuming high amounts of antinutrients can significantly impact your health.