Centuries ago, Quinoa was the prime focus of the ancient Incan diet. Inca warriors had more stamina and quicker recovery time by eating these quinoa seeds, making it a truly ancient super food. Today, quinoa is known worldwide as a powerful source of nutrition. Quinoa is obtained from a tall crop plant, Chenopodium quinoa, cultivated mainly in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile in the form of seeds, but the way quinoa is consumed equates it to the category of grains. Here is why you must include quinoa in your diet.

An incredibly enriched source of protein

There is no need to emphasize upon how important proteins are for proper health and perfect maintenance of body tissues and bones. One cup of quinoa has 9 grams of protein, which surpasses the level found in grains like wheat, barley and even the protein-rich egg which contains only close to 6 grams. In addition to this, Quinoa contains all 8 of the essential amino acids and hence considered as the ultimate source of protein. While quinoa is obviously an absolute favorite amongst vegetarians,  become a favorite dish among vegans and vegetarians, given the richness of proteins, it can easily replace meat, eggs as protein sources in a non-vegetarian diet as well.

An empowering dose of vitamins and minerals

Quinoa contains the best of the goodness of vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. A bowl of quinoa is almost like a super power with vitamin B6, thiamin niacin, potassium, riboflavin, plus minerals like copper, zinc, magnesium, and foliate, as well as the antioxidants phytonutrients quercetin and kaempferol, which lend anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting potential to each bowl consumed.

The perfect diet food

Quinoa is a low-cholesterol source of complex carbohydrates and thus it has a low glycemic index. Like a lot of other sources of carbohydrates, it does not cause the rise in the level of blood sugar. Rich in fiber, it is easily digested. Its heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats satisfy the stomach while providing more nutritional content than breads or cereals made of refined grains. Quinoa can be eaten as a breakfast food to provide long-lasting energy and help you breeze through your morning workout. A meal of vegetables and quinoa, or quinoa and beans can yield unbelievable results if you are on a diet and want to lose weight the healthy way.

A healthy way to cure migraine

Migraine pains can be extremely nasty and continuously being on medicine dose for the same can be equally nasty. Including Quinoa in your regular diet can to a large extent help tackling stubborn migraine pains. Quinoa is high in riboflavin, or vitamin B2, which promotes blood vessel expansion in the brain and reduces instances of migraine headaches.

Promotes detoxification

As a complex carbohydrate, quinoa enhances your digestive system and acts as an internal cleanser. Used regularly in your diet, quinoa can help keep you free of constipation and bloating. This seed can be used in diverse ways i.e. In breads, soups or other foods where grains are a primary ingredient, offering a steady source of colon-cleansing fiber. The vitamin B and folate in quinoa also help the liver in its role of eliminating wastes from the body, adding to quinoa’s detoxifying properties.

It's gluten free and it's tasty too

You can make pasta with quinoa and that pasta being wheat free, will be gluten free. If you suffer from digestive disorders such as Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, then quinoa can be your answer. Quinoa is technically a seed, consumed as a grain. Since it’s unrelated to wheat, it works as the perfect substitute for pasta, wheat flour, oatmeal, and so much more. You can grind, boil, bake, steam, and even fry quinoa. Basically, quinoa can be used in any form while still maintaining the health aspect.

Include the goodness of quinoa in your diet and enjoy the blend of taste and health like never before. To know more about quinoa, click here.