Essene bread, a primitive bread made from ground, sprouted whole grains, is loaded with nutritional benefits. It's baked at very low temperatures, preferably by the sun, for about 10 hours to ensure maximum nutritional content. The recipe is attributed to the Essenes, a second century B.C. Jewish religious group. The original bread was made from sprouted wheat, but other sprouted grains such as spelt or rye can be substituted, and dried fruit and seeds can be added for flavor and extra nutrition.
Carbohydrates
Sprouted whole grains are a rich source of complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates' main role is to supply your body with energy, especially for brain and nervous system functions. Complex carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, or blood sugar, during the digestion process, which your body then uses for energy. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that you get between 40 and 60 percent of your total calories from complex carbohydrates and natural sugars.
Protein
Grain sprouts are a nutritious way to get adequate protein. Proteins are broken down into their amino acid components. Wheat contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that must be obtained through your diet, since your body cannot produce it. Tryptophan is necessary for normal growth, and your body uses it to help make serotonin, a neurotransmitter important to mood and sleep, and vitamin B-3, which helps convert food into energy and is essential for healthy skin, blood cells and brain and nervous system function. The sprouting process also tends to substantially decrease gluten proteins, while increasing folate, which is vital for new cell creation.
Fiber
Whole grains and sprouts found in Essene bread are rich in fiber. There are two types of fiber -- soluble and insoluble -- found in plant-based foods. Soluble fiber, found in foods such as oats, barley, fruits and dried beans, helps slow digestion, helping stabilize blood sugar levels and making you feel full longer. Wheat contains insoluble fiber and acts as a natural laxative, speeding the movement of food through the stomach and giving bulk to waste so it travels quickly through the intestines.
Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are protein molecules that work as biological catalysts, aiding chemical reactions essential in your body's digestive process. They're extremely heat sensitive and easily destroyed by cooking. While most breads are cooked at high temperatures, Essene bread is allowed to "dehydrate" at a temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit until a crust forms around the bread. This process leaves the enzymes intact, making it a living food.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in your body, have been shown to increase during wheat's germination, or sprouting period. These three super vitamins act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage, neutralizing unstable molecules and keeping tissues and skin healthy. An increase in the B vitamins also occurs during germination. This eight-member vitamin group helps convert food into energy and is essential for healthy skin, blood cells and brain and nervous system function.
References
- Vegetarian Times: Nutritional Information: Essene Bread
- Mother Earth News: How to Make Sprouted Grain Bread: The Essene Whole Grain Bread Recipe
- Whole Grains Council: Whole Grains 101: Health Benefits of Sprouted Grains
- Harvard Health Publications: Harvard Medical School: Listing of Vitamins
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fiber
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Carbohydrates
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Carbohydrates
Writer Bio
Karen Curinga has been writing published articles since 2003 and is the author of multiple books. Her articles have appeared in "UTHeath," "Catalyst" and more. Curinga is a freelance writer and certified coach/consultant who has worked with hundreds of clients. She received a Bachelor of Science in psychology.