Buckwheat is a traditional staple food of Russia, Eastern Europe and parts of Asia, according to Michio Kushi in the book, "Macrobiotic Diet." Derived from a plant, buckwheat is both nutritious and is an acceptable food for those suffering from gluten intolerance, as it actually does not contain any wheat. Buckwheat may also be helpful for the kidneys, as it contains nutrients that are anti-inflammatory and that neutralize acidity in the body. Buckwheat can be consumed in several forms, from breakfast cereal to condiment.
Identification
Buckwheat is a small, seed-like fruit that is often considered to be a grain. Buckwheat comes from the herbaceous plant, buckwheat, which makes a flower that subsequently produces the groats that are sold mostly at health food stores. Michael T. Murray, in his book, "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods," notes that buckwheat is found in two forms, and can be roasted, producing a nut-like flavor, or unroasted, which has a subtle flavor. Though it has wheat in the name, buckwheat contains no wheat or gluten, so is safe to eat for those suffering from gluten intolerance.
Function
Buckwheat is particularly strengthening for the kidneys, according to Phyllis A. Balch in the book, "Prescription for Dietary Wellness." This is due in part to its ability to neutralize acidic wastes that are damaging to the kidneys and other organs. Besides helping the kidneys, buckwheat also builds the blood, lowers blood pressure and reduces serum cholesterol. It also strengthens capillaries and reduces risk of hemorrhage.
Nutrition
A 1/2 cup of roasted or dry buckwheat contains 284 calories, 9.6g of protein, 2.2g of fat and 61.5g of carbohydrates, according to "The Complete Book of Nutritional Healing" by Deborah Mitchell. Mitchell also notes that buckwheat is high in the flavonoids rutin and quercitin, which are anti-inflammatory. When suffering from kidney issues, inflammation occurs in the body, so it is important to eat foods such as buckwheat to reduce the inflammatory response. Kidneys also oversee the excretion of magnesium, which can be affected if kidneys are not working properly. Buckwheat is high in magnesium, and can help buffer the loss of this nutrient.
Forms
Buckwheat can be cooked in its whole groat form, or from a refined granular form. Buckwheat flour is also used in soba noodles, often found in Japanese restaurants, according to Kushi, but these also contain wheat. Buckwheat can be eaten as a hot breakfast cereal, with flax seed and milk added for thickness and flavor. Toasted buckwheat can be eaten as a snack, or added to soups and salads.
Considerations
Buckwheat may cause an allergic reaction, so pay close attention to symptoms after consuming this food. Allergic reactions cause inflammation in the body, which can harm kidneys. If suffering from symptoms related to kidney diseases, see your doctor immediately to determine the cause and if prescription medication is necessary.
References
- "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Michael T. Murray; 2005
- "Prescription for Dietary Wellness"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2003
- "The Complete Book of Nutritional Healing"; Deborah Mitchell; 2008
- "Macrobiotic Diet"; Michio Kushi; 1993
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