Quinoais a whole grain, edible seed that has gained popularity over the past few years.
From a nutritional standpoint, quinoa is considered a grain.
It is a great source of protein, fiber, and several key vitamins and minerals.
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Eating quinoa can benefit your health in several ways.
This article will review the nutritional content of quinoa and its associated health benefits.
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Nutrition Facts
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense food.
It contains a number of beneficial nutrients, includingomega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, essential minerals, andprotein.
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense food.
It is sometimes called a “superfood.”
A food that isn’t very nutrient-dense provides calories but few healthful nutrients.
Soda, for example, provides sugar and calories but no vitamins or minerals.
Quinoa is a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Provides Fiber
Getting fiber in your dietoffers many benefits, yet most Americans aren’t getting enough.
A Gluten-Free Alternative
Gluten is a protein found in wheat products.
It occurs naturally in some foods and is added to others to add protein or enhance texture or flavor.
Gluten comes from wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats.
Quinoa is a great alternative for these groups because it provides fiber, protein, and minerals without gluten.
Provides Protein
Most people can get enough protein in their diet.
People who follow vegan or mostly plant-based diets may need help getting enough protein.
Quinoa also happens to provide all nine essential amino acids.
The body needs iron to transport oxygen to tissues and organs.
It also needs it for growth, development, and hormones.
Zincsupports healthy growth, immune function, protein synthesis, and wound healing.
Potassium is needed for normal cell functioning throughout the body.
It helps to regulate fluid volume and controls the rate of heartbeats.
Bananas, cantaloupe, tomatoes, potatoes, and orange juice are considered good sources of potassium.
Quinoa fits right in the middle of this list, providing over 300 mg of potassium per 1 cup.
Quinoa is also rich in phenolic compounds, which haveantioxidantproperties.
May Improve Heart Health
The high fiber and potassium content of quinoa may benefit your heart health.
Also, quinoa is fairly low in sodium.
It also reduced triglyceride levels.
Potassium doesn’t help to prevent heart disease but does help to control your heartbeat.
BMI is a dated,flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
Just as there is no magic pill, there is no magic food.
How to Add Quinoa to Your Diet
There are several ways to incorporate quinoa into your diet.
Before cooking quinoa, it is important to rinse it with water before cooking.
This helps to removesaponinsthat may give it a bitter taste.
Some brands of quinoa may come already rinsed, so be sure to read the labels.
Cooking quinoa is similar to cooking rice.
To cook quinoa:
Quinoa is quite versatile, given its mild, nutty flavor.
It is considered a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
you could also add quinoa to your soups, stews, or salads.
Summary
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense food with several health benefits.
It is a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and several key minerals.
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