Boring to look at, but quite a powerhouse of nutrition!
Health Benefits of Quinoa
The quinoa grain is rich in essential nutrients when compared to whole grains, particularly protein, as well as in soluble fiber, and it is considered a “medicinal food” with several health benefits, mainly:
- Contributing to muscle formation. Quinoa contains all essential amino acids necessary for building muscle, and it is easy to digest. This is especially relevant for vegetarians and vegans, who usually lack protein sources in their diets. Additionally, it is gluten free and can be safely eaten by those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Aiding metabolic function. This Andean superfood offers more than just complete nutrition. It also helps decrease cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Additionally, the dietary fiber in quinoa can help stool formation and encourage bowel movements, hence relieving constipation. Quinoa is also naturally low in sodium, which makes it a fit choice for everyone, especially those with high blood pressure and other diseases where excessive sodium intake is a concern.
How It Works
Most quinoa properties are determined by a high amount of essential amino acids, which are transformed into bioavailable protein. Quinoa possesses eight amino acids that the human body can’t produce. They are considered essential for both children and adults, not only to be transformed into protein and muscle, but also for aiding in many other metabolic functions.
These amino acids include isoleucine, a blood glucose-lowering amino acid; leucine, which is crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass; lysine and methionine, both required for growth and tissue repair; phenylalanine, which plays a key role in the biosynthesis of other amino acids; threonine, an immunostimulant that promotes endocrine health; tryptophan, which is required for infant growth and brain serotonin synthesis; and valine, which promotes mental vigor, muscle coordination, and emotional calmness.
Quinoa Side Effects
Quinoa is a safe food that rarely provokes allergies or gastrointestinal comfort. Because quinoa grains or seeds contain a large amount of saponin and phytic acid, however, it is important to rinse them thoroughly and cook them before consumption in order to avoid the mildly irritating effects and nutrient absorption problems of these compounds.
Cooking quinoa is quite simple like rice, but so many ways of flavoring- have FUN!
COOKING QUINOA (INSTEAD OF SOAKING OR GERMINATING IT) IS RECOMMENDED IN ORDER TO FULLY TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ITS NUTRITIONAL CONTENT.
Health with Franz 