Multi-seed Greek yoghurt bread and the perils of mineral deficiencies
‘You can trace every disease, and every ailment to a mineral deficiency’
This claim was made by Linus Pauling, a two-time Nobel Prize winner and reflects his deep belief in the fundamental role of nutrition, particularly micronutrients, in maintaining health. Pauling’s view stemmed from his pioneering work in biochemistry and later his advocacy for orthomolecular medicine, which aims to achieve optimal health through proper molecular balance in the body.
While Pauling’s claim is perhaps exaggerated, it highlights an essential truth: minerals are vital for countless physiological functions. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and selenium support enzyme activity, bone formation, oxygen transport, and immune defense. Obviously though not all diseases arise solely from mineral shortages. Genetic factors, infections, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences also play major roles in human illness.
Seeds are nutrient-dense sources of essential minerals. Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, zinc, and iron and support muscle function, immunity and red blood cell production. Sunflower seeds provide significant amounts of selenium, copper and vitamin E which provides antioxidant protection and improves skin health. Flaxseeds are high in manganese and phosphorus which are vital for bone development and metabolism. Sesame seeds supply calcium, iron, and zinc, essential for bone strength and enzyme activity.
Recipe for multi-grain Greek yogurt bread
- 375g rye flour
- 12g baking powder
- 4g sea salt
- 360g Greek yogurt
- 2 eggs
- 30ml olive oil
- 50g mixed seeds (flaxseed, sunflower, sesame, pumpkin seeds…)
Preheat the oven to 180°c and prepare and grease a bread tin. Put the flour, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl and add the Greek yogurt, eggs, and olive oil. Mix until well combined and smooth. Spread the dough into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Add the seeds to the top, brush with olive oil and bake until golden brown.