Quinoa is known as the “Gold of the Incas“ and dates back three to four thousand years ago when the Incas first had used these seeds for human consumption. Quinoa is a super food, derived from the seed of the quinoa plant with many health benefits. Today, this amazing seed has become a popular health food in North American. Here are the best 10 health benefits of quinoa.
Full of Essential Vitamins
Quinoa contains more nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants than any other grain. In fact, Quinoa is rich in vitamin B6, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and potassium; minerals like copper, magnesium, folate and zinc, also the powerful antioxidants, phytonutrients such as quercetin and kaempferol, that have lend anti-inflammatory properties.
High in Protein
Quinoa is a an excellent source of protein. Quinoa contains lysine, which is a rare amino acid found in grains. The protein levels can be in quinoa can be comparable to those in milk.
Quinoa is Gluten Free
Quinoa is gluten free, and if you suffer from gluten intolerance, quinoa is the best healthy choice to add to your diet. Quinoa is excellent for pasta, wheat flour, oatmeal, and much more and you can consume it ground, boiled, baked or steamed.
Low in Fat
Quinoa is extremely low in fat in comparison with other grains, and any fat found in this seed is actually essential fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acid, which are good fats that promote health. Quinoa is excellent healthy choice for weight loss and burning fat.
Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
Quinoa also reduces the chances of developing diabetes-type 2, and help keep glucose levels balanced for those who already have diabetes. In fact, quinoa is rich in healthy carbohydrates, that slowly digest and keep you full for longer while promoting healthy blood sugar and appetite level.
Reduces Migraines
Quinoa is high in riboflavin (vitamin B2), which promotes blood vessel expansion in the brain and reduces migraine headaches. Adding quinoa to your healthy diet, actually can help you fight intensive headaches.
Lessens the Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Quinoa reduces the risk of developing future cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. The fiber content in this food literally combs the walls of the arteries, removing plaque from the arterial walls, which can eventually cause a heart attack or stroke.
Maintains Optimal Blood Vessel and Heart Function
Quinoa is an excellent source of magnesium, an essential mineral for optimal metabolism, heart and blood vessel function.
Fights Constipation
Quinoa is a super food that fight constipation. This seed is high in dietary fiber that promotes optimal digestion and healthy, regular bowel movements.
Super Energizer
Inca warriors regularly consumed quinoa as a super food energizer. Regularly consuming quinoa is good for strength, stamina, energy and muscle recovery.
Extra tips how to enjoy quinoa
- Combine cooked and chilled quinoa with beans, pumpkin seeds, scallions and coriander in a tasty seasonal salad.
- Add nuts and fruits to cooked quinoa and serve as breakfast snack.
- For your new pasta recipe, add noodles made from quinoa.
- Sprouted quinoa can be used in salads and sandwiches for afternoon snacks.
- Add quinoa to your favorite vegetable soups.
- Add ground quinoa flour to cookie or muffin recipes.
Read more about quinoa health benefits at: http://bodyhealthmag.com/the-incredible-quinoa10-health-benefits/
Here you can find the recipe for Quinoa “Stuffing” Read more: Seeds, Small but Mighty