GERMINATIONSTAPLEFOODS.doc.docVIP

Germination is the process whereby growth emerges from a period of dormancy. The most common example of germination is the sprouting of a seedling from seed of an angiosperm or gymnosperm. However, the growth of a sporeling from a spore, for example the growth of hyphae from fungal spores, is also germination. Germination actually creates viable stem cells of plant origin with similar biochemical messaging to our own regenerative stem cells. The seed contains an embryo and in most plants stored food reserves wrapped in a seed coat. Under favorable conditions, the seed begins to germinate, and embryonic tissues resume growth, developing towards a seedling. Grains require careful preparation because they contain a number of anti-nutrients that can cause serious health problems. Phytic acid is an organic acid in which phosphorus is bound. It is mostly found in the bran or outer hull of seeds. Untreated phytic acid can combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and especially zinc in the intestinal tract and block their absorption. A diet high in improperly prepared whole grains may lead to serious mineral deficiencies and bone loss. The modern (but misguided) practice of consuming large amounts of unprocessed bran often improves colon transit time at first but may lead to irritable and inflammatory bowel and, in the long term, many other adverse effects. Other antinutrients in whole grains include enzyme inhibitors which can inhibit digestion and put stress on the pancreas; irritating tannins; complex sugars which the body cannot break down; and gluten and casein as well as related hard-to-digest proteins which may provoke allergies, digestive disorders and even mental illness. Most of these anti-nutrients are part of the seed’s system of preservation (preventing sprouting until conditions are favorable). Plants require moisture, warmth, time and slight acidity in order to sprout. Proper preparation of grains is a kind and gentle process that imitates the p