Quinoa is a grain native to South America. "The Gold of Incas" as it was popularly called, Quinoa was used for increasing stamina of warriors. Quinoa has many health benefits. It is an excellent source of high quality protein that contains all of nine essential amino acids. A good balance of amino acids makes Quinoa an excellent choice for vegans as it fulfills their protein requirements. Quinoa is a rich source of Lysine amino acid which is essential for repair and growth of tissues. Quinoa has been well-endowed with other nutrients such as Magnesium, Phosphorus and Folate. Quinoa is known to benefit in conditions of migraine, atherosclerosis and diabetes.
Quinoa for Migraine Headaches: Inclusion of Quinoa in diet of people prone to migraine headaches is known to improve the condition. Magnesium contained in Quinoa helps in relaxing blood vessels thus prevents constriction/ rebound dilation. Studies have shown that increasing intake of magnesium reduced headache frequency of people prone to migraine headaches. Riboflavin, another vitamin found in Quinoa, is known to reduce headache frequency of migraine sufferers. Riboflavin is necessary for production of energy inside cells.
Quinoa for Heart Health: Quinoa is an excellent source of magnesium. The mineral is known for relaxing blood vessels. Low consumption of magnesium is associated with risks of hypertension, heart arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease. Consumption of wholegrain (non-refined) cereals, such as Quinoa, and dietary fibre associated with better heart health. Men who consumed one bowl of wholewheat (non-refined) cereal had 29 percent fewer chance of heart failure according to a 19.6 years long Physicians health study.
Quinoa for Postmenopausal women: In a 3 year long study on post menopausal women, it was found that consumption of whole grains such as Quinoa at least six times per week
- Slowed Atherosclerosis (building-up of plague which contracts vessels)
- Slowed progression of stenosis ( narrowing arterial passage)
Quinoa for Antioxidant effects:
Manganese, found in Quinoa, is a cofactor for superoxide dismutose enzyme. Superoxide dismutose prevents oxidative damage of mitochondria and protects other cells such as red blood cells from damage by free radicals.
Quinoa for prevention of gallstone: According to a study in American Journal of Gastroenterology, foods which are high in insoluble fibers such as Quinoa can help women prevent gallstones. Researchers believe that consumption of insoluble fibers by postmenopausal women speeds up transit time and lowers bile acid secretion. Excessive Bile acid contributes to gallstone formation.