Quinoa Nutrition Facts

Quinoa (Qin-wah) is always thought as a type of grain. The truth is contrary to this general belief, as quinoa is not a grain but seeds of a leafy plant related to spinach! It is considered to be a pseudocereal or pseudograin. This means it is not a true grain or true cereal. Quinoa is an organic food grown in the Andes mountains of Ecuador. It is a small, round, yellow grain, that can be cooked in under 12 minutes. It has a very crunchy, light, fluffy texture with a slight nutty flavor after cooking. It was known as 'the gold of the Incas' as they had discovered one of the important quinoa nutrition facts. This fact helped them learn that consumption of this grain-like seed, increased the stamina of their warriors. They called it 'chisaya mama' that is, "mother of all grains'. Their soldiers walked on for days, on a diet of quinoa and fat balls.

Quinoa is high in protein and includes all the nine essential amino acids supplements. It is the choice of grains for vegans, as it helps them take in the adequate amount of proteins, required for a healthy diet. It has lysine, an amino acid that is very important for the growth of tissues and repair mechanism. It is an excellent source of magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorous and even manganese. It has slow releasing, high level carbohydrates, that give the stomach a full feeling for a long time. Thus, making it good for people who are watching their weight and need to keep up adequate blood sugar levels. Hence, it does not make one feel guilty of all the extra calories eaten.

Nutrition Facts for Quinoa
Quinoa is very good for people who suffer from migraines, diabetes and atherosclerosis. It is a good source of magnesium, that helps in relaxing the blood vessels and preventing the constriction and dilation, observed in a migraine attack. It also has riboflavin (vitamin B2) that is very important for producing energy within the cells. Vitamin B2 has been known to improve the energy metabolism within the brain and muscle cells, thus reducing the frequency of migraines.

Quinoa is an excellent choice for people suffering from hypertension, ischemic heart disease and cardiac arrhythmia and helps in improving the cardiovascular health. A study conducted with post menopausal women with heart diseases, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, etc. helped prove this point. These women were to eat 6 servings of whole grains like quinoa every week. After the study period, these women showed low progress of related cardiovascular diseases.

Quinoa has manganese and copper, that are the co-factors for super oxide dismutase enzyme. This enzyme helps protect the cells from damage by free radicals. A study has also shown that foods containing high insoluble fiber like quinoa have helped avoid the occurrences of gallstones in women.

Quinoa For Weight Loss
As mentioned above, it is an excellent source of magnesium. One serving of quinoa daily, and you take in 48% of your body's need for magnesium. It is also rich in iron, phosphorous zinc as well as tryptophan. As quinoa contains calcium, iron and proteins, it proves to be a great substitute for meat and meat products. It is a complete and only protein source of plant origin. Quinoa is easy to digest as it is free of gluten. As you can see, those who are dieting and have to refrain from certain foods can eat quinoa. It will suffice their daily need of essential nutrients and minerals as well as help maintain a healthy diet. Thus, recommended for people interested in shedding a few extra kilos.

Sprouted Quinoa Nutritional Facts
During the early days, cooked quinoa was ground to a paste and used as a healing lotion for wounds. It was also used to treat motion sickness, appendicitis and for nursing mothers. Poultice of quinoa flour was applied to mend broken bones. Sprouted quinoa is a rich source of dietary fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. It also contains vitamin B6, niacin and thiamine. It has lysine for building proteins in the body, great for the heart with its low-fat content and a source of complex carbohydrates.

Red Quinoa Nutritional Facts
Red quinoa is a rare grain, which is grown on small plots at a height of 12,000 feet on the Andean Plateau in Bolivia. It is used for cooking soups, salads, burgers, stuffing, porridges, breads, muffins, etc. It is a rich source of amino acids, that are easily absorbed by the body. Red quinoa contains dietary fibers, folate (vitamin B9) and riboflavin (vitamin B2). Red quinoa too is free from gluten and is a healthy grain choice for the heart.

This was a bit of information related to quinoa nutrition facts. This is actually a 'super-grain' that is great for people watching their weight, heart health as well as other dietary needs. With these nutritional facts of quinoa, you should have no qualms about including this 'super-grain; in your healthy diet regime.