It is often used in its intact whole-grain form, popped or puffed, or ground into flour.
It is naturallygluten-freeand is considered an ancient grain, dating back 7,0008,000 years ago in the Americas.
Amaranth has an impressive nutrient profile and has been associated with several health benefits.
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Quinoa is another popular pseudocereal, similar to amaranth.
Both have a nutty, earthy flavor and short cooking times and are naturally gluten-free.
Quinoa contains more zinc, folate, and vitamin B6 than amaranth.
Overall, amaranth seems to rise just above quinoa nutritionally.
However, both are nutrient-dense ancient grains that make an excellent addition to your diet.
Nevertheless, research data still suggests the potential health benefits of the amaranth grain.
Amaranth containsboth soluble and insoluble fiber.
A 2019 review looked at studies of amaranth in relation to cardiovascular risk.
Most studies involved animals, and fewer studies involved humans.
However, studies in humans were inconclusive regarding amaranth’s ability to lower cholesterol.
Could Reduce Inflammation
Amaranth contains lunasin,a peptide believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2014 study showed that amaranth decreasedinflammationin both humans and mice.
This suggests that amaranth may serve as a natural supplement for inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.
Both of these nutrients help you feel full for longer.
Could Support Bone Health
Amaranth is a good source ofplant-basedcalcium.
Calcium is important for repairing and strengthening bones.
In addition, amaranth is an excellent source of phosphorus, which is also important for strong bones.
More studies are necessary to see if these results can be replicated in humans.
The stems, leaves, and seeds of the amaranth plant are all edible.
The amaranth grain is easy to cook.
Should Anyone Not Eat Amaranth?
When consumed in everyday amounts in food form, amaranth is generally considered safe to eat.
Summary
Amaranth is a gluten-free, highly nutritious ancient grain.
It is generally considered safe to consume in everyday food amounts.
Whole Grains Council.Amaranth May grain of the month.
USDA FoodData Central.Amaranth grain, cooked.
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National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Selenium fact sheet for health professionals.
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National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Manganese fact sheet for health professionals.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Magnesium fact sheet for health professionals.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Phosphorus fact sheet for health professionals.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Potassium fact sheet for health professionals.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Calcium fact sheet for health professionals.
USDA FoodData Central.Quinoa, cooked.
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