Its All About Quinoa

Quinoa 

I was old enough to remember the quinoa trend that hit the western part of the world. I remember my mother experiencing a sense of pride knowing she's played her role in advocating the benefits of quinoa to everybody who would listen. Then an overwhelming sense of knowing she must now pay the price of everyone wanting quinoa, literally. From 2006 - 2013 quinoa crop prices tripled due to such a high demand in this unique seed. Over a decade later quinoa still holds its ranking in the superfood family. Here are five reasons I choose to write this for you.

Quinoa is a Complete protein 

Quinoa being a complete protein means it provides the nine amino acids your body can not create on its own. These nine amino acids help with protein synthesis, tissue repair, and absorption of nutrients. Not only is it a complete protein, but is protein packed. In just one cup of quinoa you’ll receive about eight grams of protein. 

Fiber, fiber, and more fiber 

Visualize fiber being a physical brush sweeping away at anything that no longer serves you. Now imagine each bag of quinoa coming with an ample supply of these brushes. 

Fiber helps increase the healthy bacteria in our guts. Happy bacteria equals happier bathroom breaks. In each cup of quinoa you receive about 5.18 grams of fiber, roughly around 18% of the recommended daily value. 

Quinoa V.S Cholesterol

Yes we’re going back to fiber. Quinoa is high in soluble fiber which aids in binding and removing cholesterol, remember that magic brush? Quinoa also naturally contains omega-3 and omega 6 fatty acids. These acids help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (good cholesterol). Craving quinoa yet?

Where's the gluten?

You won't find any here. Quinoa is ideal for those living with celiac disease, or anyone with a gluten intolerance. You ever feel really bloated after eating pasta, rice, or a slice of bread? Chances are on some level your body isn’t a fan of gluten. Quinoa doesn't give off these same effects making it pleasant while you eat and after.  

Anemia who?

It’s easy to fall in the category of not eating enough iron rich foods, especially if your diet is plant based. Athletes who do rigourace workouts, or women in general especially those going through a pregnancy can easily fall into this category as well. Fortunately, quinoa carries 16% of the recommended daily value in just one cup. Along with other minerals such as magnesium, folate, and zinc. 

The winner is… Quinoa

Although my mother was distressed over a higher grocery bill (due to a family of four eating quinoa at least once a day), as a whole our family was happy to see a positive change in the community. 2013 was named “The international year of Quinoa” by the UN ( United Nations).  It takes a lot for 51 countries to agree on one thing, I'm happy to report quinoa was one of them.