1. Know Your Quinoa
It is a grain that comes from a plant with the scientific name Chenopodium quinoa. The herb has a rich medicinal heritage. Its origins can be traced to the Inca civilization. It is famed for its high-quality nutritious ingredients. So what sets apart quinoa from the myriad other foods? Quinoa's combination of proteins, vitamins and minerals is rarely seen in any other food.
2. Why Is It a Super Grain?
Quinoa is a protein-rich grain. With a protein content of 12 to 18 percent, it has more protein compared with rice, millet or wheat. The rich protein content is attributed to the essential amino acids lysine, methionine and cystine. You may find it nutritionally wise, therefore, to combine it with foods that are low in protein, but rich in other nutrients. Quinoa is also packed with carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins, and it is gluten free as well.
3. Cooking Quinoa
More often than not, quinoa can be a substitute for rice. Creative combinations and insightful approaches can make your meals delightfully appetizing. You can prepare salads, pilafs, puddings and porridges with quinoa. To remove any bitter taste, wash the grain with water. Once the saponins are removed, it is ready to cook as you wish, and it takes very little time to cook. You can refrigerate any leftovers for use at a later date.
4. Health Benefits
Aside from the protein content, quinoa is rich in magnesium and riboflavin. Magnesium is a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes involved in the body's use of glucose and insulin secretion. Magnesium improves cardiovascular health. Riboflavin increases your energy by boosting the body metabolism. According to a July 2005 study in the "American Heart Journal," quinoa reduces the atherosclerotic effects in postmenopausal women with diminished estrogen or female hormone levels. You need to eat it at least six times a week, though.
The grain is copper-rich as well. Copper is a cofactor of the enzyme superoxide dismutase that has a protective effect on the energy-producing cellular organelles called mitochondria. If you want to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, gallstones and childhood asthma, there is no food like quinoa.
5. Caveats
No food is without its downside, especially when handled the wrong way. Quinoa does not cause allergies in most people, but if you are among those who have been advised to avoid oxalates, then you may think twice about taking in quinoa. Oxalates can lead to gout and other health issues, especially in the elderly.
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