Here are 9 Health Benefits of Quinoa –

1. Very Nutritious

Quinoa is not a cereal grain, but still, it counts as a whole-grain food. Quinoa contains 222 calories, 39 grams of carbs, and 4 grams of fat.

One cup of cooked quinoa contains –

•       Protein – 8 grams

•       Fiber – 5 grams

•       Copper – 18%

•       Folate – 19%

•       Iron – 15%

•       Magnesium – 30%

•       Manganese – 58%

•       Phosphorus – 28%

•       Potassium – 9%

•       Small amounts of vitamin E and B3 (niacin)

•       Vitamins B1, B2, and B6 – 10%

•       Zinc – 13%

•       A small amount of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids

2. Very High in Antioxidants

Quinoa is very high in antioxidants, thus it helps in neutralizing free radicals and help in fighting aging and many diseases. If you sprout it for few hours, then this antioxidant property will increase further.

3. Gluten-Free

If you want to minimize or avoid gluten, this food is best for you and it has been scientifically proven that Quinoa is gluten-free. Quinoa raises the nutritional value of your diet.

4. May Help You Lose Weight

Since Quinoa is high in protein and fats it helps in keeping you fuller for more time and it reduces appetite which will promote weight loss. Quinoa is considered an excellent food in reducing calorie intake.

Quinoa contains large amounts of flavonoids, like quercetin and kaempferol which consist of numerous health benefits.

5. Very High in Protein

Quinoa is a food that contains all essential nine amino acids, which makes it a complete protein containing food. Therefore, quinoa is an excellent protein source.

6. High in Iron and Magnesium

Quinoa is very high in magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron. It also contains phytic acid which can prevent them partially from being absorbed. But, if you soak or sprout quinoa for a few hours it will reduce most of the phytic acid.

7. Improve Metabolic Health

According to research, quinoa can improve metabolic health, and reduce blood sugar, insulin levels and also triglyceride levels.

8. Has a Low Glycemic Index,

Quinoa has low glycemic index i.e. 53, which is low and therefore it is considered as the best food of controlling your blood sugar levels.

However, it’s still relatively high in carbs. Therefore, it’s not a good food if you’re following a low-carb diet.

9. Very High in Fiber

Quinoa is its high fiber content which is more than twice as high as most grains. But, the boiled quinoa contains much less fiber as it can easily absorb more water.

According to research, soluble fiber can help reduce blood sugar levels, lowers cholesterol, Keep you full for a longer time and thus helps in weight loss. However, most of the fiber is also insoluble in it.