Monday, October 21, 2013

Quinoa Health Benefits: A Protein That's Low In Carbs, Gluten-Free, And Full of Nutrients




Did you know that Quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat?  It's a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids and is packed with nutrition.  According to Medical Daily, quinoa contains magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, lysine, manganese, and iron. This particular combination of nutrients and antioxidant materials translates into helping to prevent both cell damage and cardiovascular disease. Plus the low ratio of carbohydrates to protein helps it regulate blood sugar and for this reason is considered to be good for diabetics.

Most often used as a grain, quinoa in a single cup serving has 5 grams of dietary fiber and 8 grams of protein. This tiny edible seed, which is related to spinach and beetroots, can be cooked, and added to meals where it serves as a main or secondary protein. Most people believe its light, fluffy texture is similar to couscous.

Another benefit of quinoa is that it contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains. Fiber is most widely known to relieve constipation. It also helps to prevent heart disease by reducing high blood pressure and diabetes. Fiber lowers cholesterol and glucose levels, may lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids and may help you to lose weight as it takes a longer time to chew than does other foods because it makes you feel fuller for longer and is less “energy dense” which means it has fewer calories for the same volume of food.

So serve up a bowl of quinoa with steamed vegetables, garlic and light seasoning and enjoy!


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