Phytic acid, or phytates, is the stored form of phosphorus found in seeds, nuts, legumes, and unprocessed whole grains (concentrated in the outer bran layers). The amount of phytic acid in these foods varies widely even within the same food, based on the seed type, environmental conditions, climate, and soil quality.
Which foods are high in phytates?
Phytic acid is naturally found in the following foods:
- Grains: Such as whole wheat, oats, and rice.
- Legumes: Such as black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, soy beans, peanuts, and lentils.
- Nuts and seeds: Such as walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, and sesame seeds.
- Tubers: Such as potatoes, turnips, beets, and carrots.
Where do you find phytates?
Phytic acid is found in sesame seeds, linseeds, and sunflower seeds. Nuts naturally contain a high amount of phytic acid. The process of "activating" nuts by soaking them in water and then dehydrating them at a low temperature breaks down some of the phytic acid.
