Re: Queasy on Quinoa

Hi Mr Cooties,

Its not a good idea to eat grains raw due to the anti-nutrients like phytates and enzyme inhibitors which can interfere with the absorption of minerals and reduce digestion. The saponins are natural substances that protect the plant but are mildly toxic so possibly thats what made you feel ill. There might have been moulds on it too, I've found that grains flakes eg millet and quinoa have moulds.

Rinsing, soaking and sprouting will remove/reduce the anti-nutrients. Rather than eat straight from the box rinse thoroughly first, then soak for about 12 hrs or more in water with some acid like lemon juice. Maybe you could eat raw then or sprout them, sprouted quinoa is great, very energising. From what I've read cooking doesnt seem to reduce the antinutrients significantly. I think for my rejuvelac I'll have to discard the first batch of water as the phytates go into the water.

Anne