Sprouted nuts are all the rage and we are here to tell you they are damn healthy

For those of you who are unfamiliar with sprouting, it is a process where we soak grains, seeds or legumes in water for a certain period of time so they get germinated, thereby making them easier to break down in the digestive tract, leading to faster nutrient absorption. Moreover, sprouting helps remove phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors which are linked to a higher risk of leaky gut syndrome, inflammatory bowel disorders and malnutrition.

Even though most nuts are packed with protein, vitamins and minerals, sprouting will ensure that nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, protein and antioxidants are unblocked, providing a host of health benefits, such as:

1. Promotes digestion

Sprouting increases the amount of fiber and protein in the nut and provides enzymes that make foods easier to digest.

2. Immunity booster

Consuming sprouted nuts allow the body to absorb all the vital nutrients, proving to be a powerful source of antioxidants that protects and boosts the immune system.

3. Heart friendly

Nuts are an excellent source of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, and a regular intake of sprouted nuts can lower the bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and boost the good cholesterol levels (HDL), thereby enhancing the health of your heart.

4. Improves vision

Antioxidants in sprouted nuts protect eye cells and vitamin E in nuts such as almonds improves eye health.

5. Promotes blood circulation

Sprouted nuts, packed with iron and copper increase the oxygen levels and hence the blood circulation in the body.

6. Helps with weight loss

Sprouted nuts can be beneficial when you’re trying to lose weight because they contain high quantities of fiber and protein, besides boasting few calories, which makes you feel full for longer durations.

7. Good for skin

Walnuts are known for aiding healthy skin and its sprouted form can further enhance the efficacy of its nutritional quotient, helping with protecting skin against wrinkles and fine lines as it contains omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties.

8. Protects hair

Sprouted nuts, such as walnuts and almonds are excellent sources of nutrients, such as biotin, B-vitamins, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, protein and magnesium, which helps with promoting hair health by boosting growth and keeping dandruff at bay.

This is how you can sprout your own nuts

1. Wash the nuts and soak them in a bowl with water and add 1 tbsp of the sea/table salt.
2. Cover the bowl with a cloth and allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-12 hours.
3. Remember to rinse the nuts at least twice a day and drain the water after 10-12 hours. 
4. Add 2-3 tbsp of water twice a day to the bowl and repeat this process for the next 4-5 days until they begin to sprout. Usually, it takes 2-5 days for germination to complete.

Now your healthy sprouted nuts are ready, for you to treat yourself with a healthy dose of nutrients.