Beyond being a delicious, satisfying, and versatile addition to both savory and sweet dishes, quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse that's rightly earned its spot in the superfood hall of fame.
One cup cooked provides about 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. Unlike some plant proteins, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot make on their own.
A study by Harvard Public School of Health has reported that eating a bowl of quinoa daily is healthy and without any side effects.
Often considered one of the world's healthiest foods, quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrition that offers an array of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in every serving. Interestingly enough, the quinoa pronunciation (keen-wah) isn't the only source of confusion when it comes to this incredible ingredient.
Quinoa and rice can both be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. However, quinoa is slightly higher in nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
While quinoa is an excellent source of fiber, most of the fiber found in this seed is actually insoluble. Consuming too much fiber can lead to gastrointestinal side effects such as bloating, gas, stomach cramps, or dehydration among other symptoms.
In terms of overall health, quinoa wins! With complete proteins, fiber, and loads of micronutrients, quinoa is the healthier choice. For those counting calories or low on time, couscous is a great option.
Quinoa (pronounced "keen-wah") is a hearty, protein-rich seed, considered by many to be a whole grain. A "whole grain" contains all the original parts of the grain or seed, making it a healthier and more complete food than a refined or processed grain.
However, too much quinoa on your plate can result into stomach ache, diarrhea, bloating and even discomfort. This happens because your body cannot handle too much fiber present in it. Also, it contains a naturally-occurring chemical called saponins, which can cause stomach-issues if quinoa is not washed well.
High-Quality Protein for Muscle Building
With approximately 8 grams of protein per cup, quinoa provides a substantial amount of this crucial macronutrient. Incorporating quinoa into your diet can help support muscle development and repair.
Oats contain macronutrients such as total carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium, total fat, proteins, saturated fats, iron, zinc, potassium, etc. Though both kinds of cereals are rich in nutrients, Quinoa is considered to be the healthier of the two.
Quinoa is one of the best vegan sources of protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids the human body requires. It's also rich in minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, iron.
Quinoa, a well-known healthy pseudocereal, has a high content of dietary fiber, contains poly-unsaturated fatty acids, and is considered a high-quality source of protein. Furthermore, it contains an abundance of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals21–23 and therefore has potential protective effects against inflammation.
Why rinse quinoa? Rinsing removes quinoa's natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy. Although boxed quinoa is often pre-rinsed, it doesn't hurt to give the seeds an additional rinse at home.
Grains to avoid are wheat (such as wheat berries, spelt, kamut, farro and bulgur), rye, barley and triticale. Oats are technically gluten-free, but they carry a higher possibility of cross-contamination during manufacturing. To be safe, choose gluten-free oats such as Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Rolled Oats.
Experimenting with new-to-you varieties of whole grains like millet, sorghum, bulgur, or quinoa is also a great way to add variety to your diet, increase fiber intake and maintain microbial balance in your gut.
From a nutritional point of view, quinoa beats brown rice in most categories. It offers more dietary fiber and protein than brown rice, so it should make for a more filling addition to your diet.
Most foods lose their healthy fatty acids when oxidized, but quinoa's nutrients hold up to boiling, simmering and steaming.
Quinoa contains the plant compounds quercetin and kaempferol. These antioxidants may protect against a range of chronic conditions. For example, according to some research, kaempferol may help protect against infection, heart disease, diabetes, and several cancers, including those of the skin and liver.
That's because it's what is known as a complete grain, combining protein, fibre, B vitamins and complex carbohydrates all in one. Eating grains like quinoa will help to boost your metabolism, and burn belly fat faster, as will…
The darkest variety of quinoa is the black quinoa which is super rich and healthy as compared to the other two versions. It is the healthiest option of quinoa that has more protein, dietary fiber, and less amount of fat content inside. It takes time to cook black quinoa due to its nuttier and fluffy texture.
Basmati is a little bit nutty and a little bit floral (not unlike jasmine rice), but basmati has a slightly softer grain. In terms of nutrition, quinoa has the edge: Basmati rice has slightly more calories per serving than quinoa, and quinoa delivers more fiber and protein.
I find that some of the best seasonings for quinoa are cumin, dried bay leaf, turmeric, and salt, and black pepper. I also love to flavor it with fresh garlic and herbs such as parsley, dill, and cilantro. You can add the seasonings of your choice into the pot at the same time with the liquid and cook it as directed.