Comments on: A Wheatberry Lesson

By: Kristen

Kristen — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:50:29 +0000

Hi there! I love you site. I also love wheatberries and all whole grain products in general. I just wanted to leave a comment regarding the importance of soaking. My research led me to believe that soaking grains is good for two reasons. First, it can help digestion. Though not all of us have a problem there, myself included. Second, and, I believe more importantly, it reduces the phytic acid content. All grains, nuts and seeds contain phytic acid. Phytic acid interferes with mineral absorbtion (calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc) because we lack the enzyme to break it down. This means that the phytic acid binds with those minerals and they pass unabsorbed through the intestine. Of course I want to absorb those minerals from my bowls of whole grain goodness! Soaking in a acid medium (vinegar, lemon juice) helps breakdown the phytic acid. But a warm water soak alone helps too – I know I don’t always love my breakfast to have a hint of vinegar/lemon! Though I don’t mind if I’m, say, making a pilaf out of my whole grains. Besides adding an acid, I’ve also read that complimentary grain soaking helps. Grinding up some wheatberries and adding it to your oat soak will help break down the phytic acid because wheat has a higher content of the phytase enzyme.

This is just a little “fyi” based on what I’ve read. If you have read or learned differently regarding this topic, please share! I’m always looking for good information when it comes to getting the best nutrition from foods.

By: Carol

Carol — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 15:06:55 +0000

And another thanks that you had this information still on your website. I searched everywhere for accurate nutritional information about cooked versus dry wheatberries. I only found your blog recently, and am enjoying it greatly.

By: Sarah

Sarah — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:01:05 +0000

Thank you I have been looking for this information EVERYWHERE!

By: Paige @ Healthy Hits the Spot

Paige @ Healthy Hits the Spot — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 22:28:44 +0000

Thank you for this! I have been wondering what “wheat berries” were for so long! I will have to try them : )

By: KathEats

KathEats — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:59:27 +0000

Thanks!

By: Samantha

Samantha — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:58:21 +0000

Just for clarification,according to eatingwell.com 1/2 cup of cooked wheatberries is 150kcal. Made a big pot last night to add to chili!

By: KathEats

KathEats — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:37:44 +0000

I don’t really know – either EarthFare or perhaps the Great Harvest there

By: Nissi

Nissi — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:37:03 +0000

In Charlotte? I forgot to add that.

By: Nissi

Nissi — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:36:29 +0000

Could you let me know where I can buy wheat berries in bulk (25-50 lbs)? Thanks.

By: leslee

leslee — Mon, 23 May 2011 00:19:08 +0000

It’s so fun & refreshing to read so many people interested in healthy food..way to go Americans. Baby steps toward a healthy next generation…we can do it!