QUINOA - SUPER FOOD?

A delish Quinoa sallad

Have you heard of Quinoa? Do you know what it is? Though not technically a grain, Quinoa can substitute nearly any grain in cooking. Quinoa is actually the seed of a leafy plant and its' relatives include spinach, beets and Swiss chard. Due to its nice texture, taste and rich amounts of protein, iron, potassium, magnesium and other vitamins and minerals, it is my new food love! It's also a good source of dietary fiber and is easily digested.

Health Benefits
A recently rediscovered ancient "grain" native to South America, quinoa was once called "the gold of the Incas," who recognized its value in increasing the stamina of their warriors. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa's amino acid profile well balanced, making it a good choice for vegans concerned about adequate protein intake, but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this "grain" may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis.

Help for Migraine Headaches
If you are prone to migraines, try adding quinoa to your diet. Quinoa is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessels, preventing the constriction and rebound dilation characteristic of migraines. Increased intake of magnesium has been shown to be related to a reduced frequency of headache episodes reported by migraine sufferers. Quinoa is also a good source of riboflavin, which is necessary for proper energy production within cells. Riboflavin (also called vitamin B2) has been shown to help reduce the frequency of attacks in migraine sufferers, most likely by improving the energy metabolism within their brain and muscle cells.

Cardiovascular Health
Quinoa is a very good source of magnesium, the mineral that relaxes blood vessels. Since low dietary levels of magnesium are associated with increased rates of hypertension, ischemic heart disease and heart arrhythmias, this ancient grain can offer yet another way to provide cardiovascular health for those concerned about atherosclerosis.

These, and many more studies have confirmed that quinoa is a bit of a super food. You can buy it in most supermarkets nowadays, it's easy to cook and can be used in numerous ways. Give it a go! Maybe try this different quinoa breakfast option: Warm and Nutty Cinnamon Quinoa