Why do nuts make you fart, and what can you do about it?

Why nuts make you fart, and what you can do about it

I’m making a concerted effort at the moment to eat a whole arse-load of Omega-3s. Apparently anxiety begins in the gut, and sanity begins with a whole lot of Omega-3s, so I’m stocking up on salmon, leafy greens and walnuts.


I love walnuts. Especially when they’re surrounded by a double fudge brownie. But I’ve been good and just been trying to scarf bucketloads of the tiny brains regularly.

The only problem is, when I do eat them, my belly gets rather uncomfortable. I get bloated and uncomfortable, and then things get really ugly.


Why do nuts make you fart?

So I did some research, and apparently nuts contain compounds, such as phytates and tannins that can impair digestion. Phytates and tannins both work by binding up minerals so they are unable to ignite the enzymatic reactions that tell a seed or nut to sprout until it is safe to do so.

The idea is for the plant that grew the nut or seed to ensure its survival in the world by going straight through any beast that eats it, undigested, so it can drop back to earth and grow a whole new tree. So basically, you can poop a new tree.

The good news is that there is something you can do to ensure those nuts don’t make you fart. The bad news is Pete Evans is right (ugh).

Why do nuts make you fart? Champagne Cartel

You’ve got to soak, sprout or ferment those seeds in order to break down those compounds so you can digest the nuts without playing the national anthem out of your butt.

The best way for me has been to ‘activate’ the nuts, which basically means you soak them and then put them in the oven on low so they dry out (traditionally this was done in the sun, but you know, technology and hygiene).

When you soak the nuts, you trick them into thinking it’s time to germinate and they begin to break down the phytates and tannins in preparation for sprouting and growing a new tree. Except before they get to become a tree, you’re going to eat those bad boys. Sucked in, tree.

For a great guide on how to activate various types of nuts, check this guide from Move Nourish Believe.

So now I’m happily back on my anti-crazy-person diet, and I’m activating my nuts like a giant wanker. But I’m much more comfortable, my pants fit better, and my family is quietly grateful. #winwin

Do you avoid nuts for windy reasons? Would you activate your almonds?

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