Quinoa Nutrition Info – Here Is Why You Want To Give This Super Food A Try

You’d have to be living under a rock to not have heard mention of Quinoa the super grain from South America. As we start to explore the nutritional facts of quinoa, you will note that this is a excellent thing. And here is a little historical tidbit for you. Quinoa was valued by the ancient Inca in Peru. It was thought to be sacred and was a staple of Andean diet for over six thousand years.

This grain is a complete protein which is one of the factors why it has been used for such a period of time. Among other amino acids, quinoa also contains the essential lysine. Interestingly quinoa is full of this essential nutrient. Our bodies need a variety of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins to create and preserve muscle mass. At this time most of us get protein from meat and dairy foods. Only a handful of grains and other plant based foods contain all the various types of protein blocks we need. This is why quinoa is deemed a super food and is also often called the mother grain.

But it doesn’t end there, this ancient grain is also low in cholesterol and sodium while delivering a good amount of dietary fiber. Quinoa is even full of Thiamine, Riboflavin, Folate, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Niacin, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorous, and Manganese. All those nutrients make it a very healthful wholegrain choice that also actually is low-calorie. No wonder that it’s a superfood.

Quinoa is perfect when you are trying to lose weight since both the fiber and protein in it will keep you full while you are enjoying a low-calorie food. You can make it instead of rice, potatoes, pasta and other white starches. It’s better for you and you won’t have to fret about sugar cravings later.

If you need to stick to gluten free foods, quinoa is your best ally. You can make all sorts of things from breads and puddings to risotto-like side dishes and even breakfast cereal (similar to oatmeal) out of it. Cooked quinoa can also be added to salads to give it some crunch and nutty flavor in addition to making the salad more filling.

Still not convinced this is worth a try? Let’s see what you can expect to gain from it. Here are some of the benefits that speak for incorporating this super food into your diet It can help remove harmful free radicals from your body through the antioxidants that can be found it it and is also good for your heart. Lignans can also be found in quinoa which are said to protect your heart from damage and keep it strong. Add to that the fact that it is a whole grain; it isn’t really surprising that it is considered quite healthy.

Ready to make some delicious food with this ancient grain? Take this easy quinoa muffins recipe for example. Quinoa is also a gluten free food, making it a good choice for anyone living a gluten-free life-style. As are these simple to make gluten free oatmeal cookies you can’t miss.

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