Benefits of Quinoa

Hilda Delgado, Staff Writer

Quinoa dates back to approximately four thousand years ago, when the Incas first realized it was fit for human consumption. Since then, this powerfood has been used to fuel your body with enriching nutrients among several other benefits:

Quinoa is classified as a pseudo-cereal.
en.wikipedia.org
Quinoa is classified as a pseudo-cereal.

1. Protein: Quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods a person can eat. It is complete with protein containing all nine essential amino-acids, helping to build muscle.

2. Fiber: Quinoa contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains. Quinoa consumed as a fiber source can in turn help reduce risks of high blood pressure and diabetes.

Even a small amount of quinoa is high in nutrients.
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Even a small amount of quinoa is high in nutrients.

3. Iron: Quinoa is high in iron. Iron helps keep our red blood cells healthy and is vital to hemoglobin formation. Iron carries oxygen to our blood, and increases brain activity.

4. Magnesium: There are many nutrients lacking in the modern diet. A very popular nutrient that seems to be missing nowadays is magnesium. Quinoa is particularly high in magnesium — one cup has about 30% of the Recommended Daily Allowance.

Try to mix quinoa in with your salad.
Try to mix quinoa in with your salad.

5. Gluten-Free: Given that quinoa is gluten-free, it has major benefits for metabolic health. Consuming quinoa instead of typical gluten free foods, has been proven to significantly reduce blood sugar, and insulin production.

Overall, quinoa is a superfood that, when incorporated into your diet, changes the way you feel on the inside and on the outside. By simply replacing your typical white rice with quinoa, you’ll be both making your meal healthier and improving your lifestyle.