Quinoa: Nutrition and Health Benefits

In recent times, quinoa has become one of the most popular superfoods. If you are not familiar with quinoa, it is a grain crop that is rich in nutrients.
Quinoa is frequently served in salads, and many people eat quinoa in exchange for carbs because they are filling. So what are the nutrition in quinoa that makes them good for your health?
Below is the list of nutrients contained in a cup (100g) of cooked quinoa:
Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) |
|
Energy | 368 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 64.2 g |
Dietary fibre | 7.0 g |
Protein | 14.1 g |
Vitamin A | 1 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 0.49 mg |
Vitamin E | 2.4 mg |
Calcium | 47 mg |
Iron | 4.6 mg |
Magnesium | 197 mg |
Manganese | 2.0 mg |
Potassium | 563 mg |
Water | 13.3 g |
Who would not want to reap these nutrients of this amazing superfood? More than the nutritional values below is the health benefits you’ll get from quinoa:
Helps with weight loss
Quinoa is high in fibre content, and in fact, quinoa contains two times higher fibre in comparison to the other grains such as rice. The high fibre content will make you fill fuller for longer and reduce your calorie intake. Other than fibre, quinoa is high in protein. Protein is one of the nutrients that play an essential role in increasing your metabolism and slowing down your appetite.
Promotes healthy blood sugar control
Compared with other grains, quinoa is low in carbohydrates. You don’t need to worry about consuming quinoa grains because they are not refined carbs. Refined carbs are not suitable for your health because they can cause a spike in your blood sugar level. They also can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, quinoa promotes healthy blood sugar control by reducing blood triglycerides and free fatty acids.
Great dietary substitute (for vegans and vegetarian)
Quinoa is a source of complete protein. By complete protein, it means that quinoa is one of a few superfoods that contain nine essential amino acids. Our own body can not produce these essential amino acids. Therefore, the only way for our body to consume them is by obtaining it through our diet. Consuming meats, eggs, and poultry can be one of the ways to get essential amino acids. For vegans and vegetarians, quinoa can be a dietary substitute for meats and dairy.
High in antioxidants
Antioxidants are a substance that inhibits oxidation. How are antioxidants beneficial for our health? Antioxidants help to fight several diseases, and they also help to fight to age. The good news for you is quinoa contains high levels of antioxidants. It is recommended to sprout quinoa even longer so that the antioxidant level in quinoa increases.
For more information about the nutrients and health benefits of Quinoa, visit Okadoc and consult with our nutritionist. Find a doctor now at Okadoc.
c.
More Articles
Virtual Consultation With Doctors Through Okadoc
Okadoc now offers virtual consultation with trusted doctors and hospitals. Learn more here!
Seasonal Allergies: Spring Edition
Do you have any seasonal allergies especially in the spring? Discover what are the main causes, symptoms and tips to ease these allergies.
Why is Reading Important for Health?
If reading isn’t usually on your to-do list, try to clear your schedule and pick up a good book. Discover what are the benefits of reading on our health.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms and Treatment
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects women. Here is an explication of what is it, what are the symptoms and how to treat it.