Quinoa often de-
scribed as a "superfood"
or a "supergrain". Quinoa is packed with protein, fiber and various minerals and vitamins. It is gluten free. It is recommended for people who are on gluten free diet.
Often used as substitute for rice. It is considered as a grain but actually it is seed. When cooked Quinoa is soft and fluffy with slightly nutty taste. Quinoa comes from Peru, Bolivia and Chile. Quinoa seeds can be red, white, black, pink, yellow, grey, orange or green. The white variety is more flavorful and red contains more nutrients.
NUTRIENT PROFILE
Quinoa is a good source of protein, fiber, iron, copper, thiamine and B6. It is also an excellent source of magnesium, phosphorus, manganese and folate. The Quinoa unusual composition and exceptional balance of protein, oil, fat, minerals, fatty acid, antioxidants and vitamins make it a highly nutritious food. The phyto hormones are found in Quinoa unlike many other plant food. Phyto hormones help regulate plant growth. Some types are called phytoestrogens which are used for the treatment menopause symptoms because they behave like estrogen in the body. Quinoa has more protein and a greater balance of essential amino acids. Nutritionally it resembles milk protein. It surpasses cereals in an amount of dietary fiber, lipids, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus and vitamins B1, B2, B6 and vitamins C and E. It has zero cholesterol.
QUINOA HEALTH BENEFITS
Quinoa is most famous for being plant food that supplies complete proteins and providing essential amino acids in healthy balance. Essential amino acids are ones that the body cannot produce on their own. Their are nine essential amino acids. Unlike other grains Quinoa is the good source of lysine.
ANTI INFLAMMATORY BENEFITS
Quinoa and other whole grains help decrease the risk of inflammation. They help to promote the healthy gut microbes. And prevent obesity, inflammation and disease.
GLUTEN FREE
Gluten free diets are recommended for the people with celiac disease. People who follow gluten free diet don't get all essential nutrients. Quinoa is naturally gluten free and it is nutrition wise perfect for gluten free diet.
DIGESTION
QUINOA is more easily digested than other grains. It gives fullness after eating than wheat or rice.
DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION
Quinoa has played role in management of diabetes and hypertension. Quinoa rich in antioxidants called quercetin and Quinoa has the highest overall antioxidant activity. It helps to manage Type 2 diabetes associated with hypertension.
LONGEVITY
According to scientists the fiber in Quinoa could help people live longer. High dietary fiber intake may reduce the risk of total mortality. Recent studies linked whole grain consumption with longevity. Whole grain consumption is also associated with low risk of cardiovascular disease.
Thus all means that Quinoa can be incorporated into your diet in any ways. Quinoa flour can be used in gluten free baking. So the supergrain or the superfood should be introduced in daily diet for many health benefits. |
