What are an Activated Nuts?

Quite often, there is a common factor regarding new trends. What we think is a new idea is often not new at all. It turns out to be a revival of something that was done years ago. This is somewhat the case with the trend of eating activated nuts.

The History of Activating Nuts

Activating seeds and nuts goes back to ancient cultures. The Aztecs used activation as a preservation method. They would soak the nuts or seeds in salted water, also known as brine, then let the nuts dry in the sun. That method was effective but time-consuming. Today, there are much faster methods of activating nuts.

Why Activated Nuts

There’s no debating that nuts are beneficial to overall wellness. They are a fantastic, nutrient-dense snack. Nuts provide protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. However, nuts can be difficult to digest. The reason for that is the enzyme inhibitors that are beneficial to nuts can make nuts difficult to digest and inhibit the absorption of some of the nutrients in the nuts. In addition to that, nuts contain phytic acid which the human digestive system is unable to break down. This can result in a feeling of digestive discomfort. The activation process deactivates the enzyme inhibitors and removes the phytic acid. Some research shows that activating nuts increases their nutritional value.

The Activation Process

While there is a basic process for activating nuts, all nuts do not require the same amount of soaking and drying time. Activated walnuts require 5 to 8 hours of soaking and 12 to 24 hours drying time. Activated Hazelnuts require 7 to 12 hours of soaking and 12 to 15 hours of drying time. Activated almonds should be soaked overnight and dried for at least 15 hours possibly up to 24 hours. Activated Brazil nuts need to soak 7 to 12 hours and dry for 12 to 24 hours and activated cashews require 2 to 3 hours of soaking time and 12 to 15 hours of drying time. Cashews have a thin outer skin. Soaking them too long can lead to sliminess and bitterness. They can be soaked overnight if placed in the refrigerator.