Quinoa (Chenopodium) is a grain-like crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. It is a pseudo-cereal, rather than a true cereal, or grain. As such, it as it is not a member of the true grass family. Quinoa is closely related to species such as beetroots and spinach.
1. Source of protein
Quinoa is rich in protein, providing you with up to 9 essential amino acids,namely:histidine,isoleucine,leucine,lysine,methionine,phenylalanine,threonine,tryptophan and valine. The aforementioned cannot be manufactured in the body and hence has to be provided for by the diet you take.
2. Fiber Rich
Quinoa is laden with fiber. Fiber helps in losing weight as well as relieving constipation. In addition, it helps o check on constipation and prevents hemorrhoids. This is because fiber gives you a feeling of fullness in the stomach; making you eat less hence you are less likely to eat much. Fiber is also helpful in reducing incidences of heart diseases as well as diabetes because it lowers cholesterol level.
3. Iron Rich
Quinoa has abundance of iron which is useful in maintaining healthy red cells and formation of hemoglobin. Iron is useful in the body for the purposes of transport of oxygen to the muscles as well as aiding neuron- transmission process, enhancing enzyme activities and metabolism.
4. Lysine Content.
Quinoa contains a chemical compound known as lysine which is vital for growth of tissues and repair.
5. Rich in magnesium
Quinoa has abundant magnesium which plays the role of relaxing blood vessels hence minimizing migraines attack. It has also been found to lower Type 2 diabetes by enhancing blood sugar regulation. In addition, magnesium is useful in the transmission of nerve transmission, regulation of body temperature, removal of toxic waste, production of energy and promotion of healthy bones and teeth.
6. Rich in Riboflavin (B2)
That Quinoa is rich in Vitamin B2 cannot be overemphasized. Vitamin B2 boosts energy metabolism in the brain cells and has been found to provide the energy necessary in the cells.
7. Rich in Manganese
As an anti-oxidant, manganese aids in preventing damage to the mitochondria during energy production as well as safeguarding the red blood cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals damage the DNA of healthy cells, leading to cancerous cells which in turn cause complications such as cancer of the colon, breast cancer among others.
