Phytates (Phytic Acid)

What are Phytates?

Antioxidant compounds found in seeds, grains, nuts, and legumes that can temporarily bind to minerals like zinc and iron, slightly reducing their absorption.

Phytates, or phytic acid, are found naturally in many plant foods like grains, legumes, and nuts. They are often called ‘anti-nutrients’ because they can bind to minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium, potentially making them harder to absorb.

However, this is rarely a concern for healthy individuals with a balanced diet. Soaking, sprouting, or cooking your legumes and grains can help reduce phytic acid levels, improving the bioavailability of the minerals in those foods.