What Is Phytic Acid? Here Are Ways To Control This Anti-Nutrient
Phytic acid is a unique natural substance found in plant seeds. It's often considered as an antinutrient. Nutritionist Pooja Malhotra discusses phytic acid in detail. Read on to know.
Have you ever come across the word phytic acid? Well, in simple terms, phytic acid is a unique natural substance found in plant seeds. It's considered as an antinutrient because it impairs mineral absorption. So, it is believed that people who already have mineral deficiency must be very mindful of consuming phytic acid. However, where exactly can you find phytic acid? Are there any benefits? Answering these questions, nutritionist Pooja Malhotra shares a post on Instagram. She also states ways to reduce phytic acid.
According to Pooja, “Phytic acid is a unique substance present in plant foods like grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts. It's a storehouse of phosphorus and an antioxidant too.”
She states, “Phytic acid is considered an anti-nutrient as it interferes with the absorption of iron, zinc, calcium and other minerals too. The good news is that common preparation methods help reduce phytic acid content.”
She shares some ways to reduce phytic acid:
1) Soaking overnight or for 12 hours helps reduce phytic acid.
2) Sprouting/ germination of seeds, grains, and legumes cause the breakdown of phytates.
3) Roasting of grains
4) Fermentation too causes the breakdown of phytates.