The Health Benefits of Quinoa

A new grain originally belongs to the South America is unknown to us and Why is it regarded as so nutritious? Actually, quinoa is not regarded as a plant but it is a plant, used like any other grain. Quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrition like protein, calcium, phosphorus essential amino acids, potassium, magnesium etc.

Quinoa is definitely the grain that I am most comfortable with and cook with most often. It is so versatile and I’ve found myself using this grain as a base for salads, adding it to stir fry and even Dalia (porridge)! Just perfect for the morning breakfast.

This super food grain is gluten-free and is a great source of iron, vitamin B-6 and magnesium. It is also considered one of the few plant-based complete proteins, and the ratio of protein to carbohydrate is impressive for a grain!

Quinoa health benefits are not restricted to these. There are many other benefits as well. It contains a lot of fatty acids as well. Oleic acid is found in quinoa in great amounts. It’s beneficial for the heart as it contains monounsaturated fatty acids, most of it is alpha-linolenic acids. The omega-3 fatty acid contained in plants, it is also found in some other seeds like flax seeds, and chia seeds. Quinoa, unlike other whole grains, are completely gluten-free. So the quinoa health benefits can never be ignored.

Nutritional Values of Quinoa in One Cup:

If you are still having some doubts about quinoa, its whopping nutritional value can let all your doubts to rest.

• Protein-8 Gm.

• Manganese-58% of the RDA.

• Phosphorous-28% of the RDA.

• Folate-19% of the RDA.

• Iron- 15% of the RDA.

• Potassium-9% of the RDA.

• Over 10% of the RDA for vitamins B1, B2, and B6.

• Small amounts of Calcium, B3 (Niacin), and Vitamin E.

Health Benefits of Quinoa:

Quinoa is full of protein, fiber, and minerals. It is also full of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. The following points will speak about the benefits of quinoa.

Gluten-Free:

Gluten is regarded by some nutritionists to be a roadblock to the weight loss journey. So people who want to lose weight can have quinoa. As most other carbohydrates contain gluten. It can cause bloating and digestive issues for some people who have to strike off gluten from their diet and can take quinoa. Not only is it nutrient rich but is completely gluten-free.

Low-glycemic index:

Food with a low-glycemic index can keep your blood sugar levels steady, like quinoa. But foods like quinoa don’t spike blood sugar levels suddenly. Refined flours which are causing havoc with our health are the ones that are guilty of expanding our tummy and give an invitation to lifestyle diseases. Quinoa has a glycemic index of 53 which is way lower than other grains.

High in protein:

Quinoa is high in protein and amino acids. It is rich in protein sources about eight grams in one cup of cooked quinoa. It is a rich source of protein for people who are vegetarians or vegans. High in minerals: Quinoa is rich in four main minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron.

High in minerals:

Quinoa is rich in four main minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron.

High In antioxidants:

It is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants fight free radicals which neutralize free radicals which fight aging and many diseases.

Rich in flavonoids:

It contains flavonoids, and plant antioxidants, which are Quercetin (a yellow crystalline pigment present in plants, used as a food supplement to reduce allergic responses or boost immunity Kaempferol (is a natural flavonol, a type of flavonoid, found in a variety of plants and plant-derived foods) and it is antiviral, anti-cancer

So this grain is a powerhouse of energy!