We’re taught from a young age about the importance of healthy eating. That the body is a temple, and that good health is the secret to living a good life.
Personally, this was one of the frustrating hurdles life had ever lodged in my path. Despite being highly motivated to improve my lifestyle and eating habits, I often found myself failing to maintain my diets, hungry and miserable with what I was forcing myself to eat. I remember questioning if healthy eating was truly practical.
What we weren’t taught was that maintaining a healthy diet wasn’t impossible, but simply required focus, planning and a splash of creativity. Over the years I’ve discovered an arsenal of techniques and ingredients that have made my road to healthy living a smooth ride.
One such incredible ingredient is Quinoa. Quinoa is often described as a superfood and although it won’t give you superpowers, it does quite a lot to earn it that reputation. Let’s have a look at some of the unique and amazing properties of this phenomenal ingredient.
The Health Benefits Of Organic Quinoa
Quinoa is a seed produced by a plant of the same name. Many mistake it for a grain, due to its similar properties, thus it is often termed a ‘pseudo grain’. Quinoa has incredibly high nutritional value and some of it’s best qualities include:
- Quinoa is naturally gluten-free and high in protein, making it an amazing and accessible option for those with gluten intolerance and those leading vegan lifestyles. Quinoa is also widely considered to be Kosher.
- Quinoa is high protein and is one of the few foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. These 9 are essential because the body cannot produce them itself, thus for quinoa to provide all 9 in one meal is very impressive and practical.
- Quinoa has a low glycemic index of 53. This means quinoa doesn’t raise blood sugar levels quickly and enters the bloodstream at a steady pace. This makes Quinoa a godsend for those struggling with their blood sugar.
- Quinoa is great for those trying to lose weight, as it is high in fiber which makes you feel full for longer and high in protein which increases the body’s metabolism.
- Quinoa is high in mineral value, containing high values of all 4 minerals, especially magnesium. Quinoa is also very high in antioxidants, which are substances that assist in fighting symptoms of aging and disease.
- Quinoa can be prepared in bulk and stored, making it very practical for those who may not have as much time to invest in cooking healthy options. This makes it much easier for you to plan out your eating schedules and maintain your diets.
Is Quninoa Better Than Rice?
When considering its texture and flavor, rice has long been the most popular grain on Earth. Once cooked, quinoa likewise acquires a texture similar to that of rice, however quinoa has a far higher nutritious content than rice.
Since both quinoa and rice are inherently gluten-free, they are excellent choices for anyone who are intolerant to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat and other grains. When comparing nutritious content, quinoa is has the most when compared to all grains like corn, rice and wheat.
Is It OK to Eat Quinoa Daily?
Considering that quinoa comes from the seed of a plant, there are no real risks in eating this daily for those with a healthy digestive system. Quinoa is like a blank canvas to the kitchen artist. It can be served up with countless variations to keep the meal ideas that can be created fun and different.
Quinoa never has to be boring. It is the perfect addition to all of your sauces and wok masterpieces, insert it into casseroles, or layer it in baked savory entrees. Eating a serving of quinoa every day could cut your risk of developing chronic illnesses that could cause a premature death including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems by 17%, according to a Harvard Public School of Health study.
Can Quinoa Help You Burn Belly Fat?
Eating grains like quinoa will speed up your metabolism and help you lose abdominal fat. Dietary fiber, protein and magnesium, which are abundant in quinoa, can help you feel fuller for longer and ward off cravings for sweets while also facilitating digestion.
Much of the uphill battle when it comes to eating less is eating foods that keep us feeling fuller longer. Qunioa has the ability to do that with bulk that is full of nutrients, not empty calories. Because of quinoa’s high nutritional value, it is a smart decision to include it as much as possible as your carb component in your meals.
Which is Healthier, Red or White Quinoa?
A popular debate continues about which is better tasting, and which is healthier: red quinoa or white quinoa?
From a health standpoint, the difference between the two quinoa colors is small. The red has slightly more antioxidants than its white quinoa counterpart.
Which Quinoa Tastes Better, White or Red?
The texture and flavor of white quinoa is where people may argue that white quinoa is smoother and milder than red quinoa. Red quinoa may have a slightly more bitter taste, especially when consumed raw. Most people eat quinoa cooked, so this quality is not as noticeable when cooked, and especially when it is used in a recipe where the quinoa is mixed in with different foods and flavors.
Where To Buy Quinoa
2 Highly Rated Quinoa Products Worth Trying
1. Trader Joe’s: Harvest Grains Blend
Trader Joe’s: Harvest Grains Blend is an amazing product containing Quinoa and other healthy grains. This product is advertised as ‘simple, hearty and delicious’ and can be used to create complete stand-alone meals or complementary side dishes.
The product contains Red Quinoa, but also houses a cache of wonderful and healthy grains such as: Israeli Style Couscous, Orzo and Baby Garbanzo Beans. The product is sold in a pack of 3, weighing 454g each.
Reviews on this product on Amazon are extremely positive. Many comment on the variety of ways the grains can be prepared, and the variety of scenarios they can be used in. Some stated they loved preparing it as a side dish with fish or with chicken. Some used it as the main component of their vegan dishes. Almost all reviews agreed that the product was delicious and many commented that it could be prepared very quickly. It’s 5 star rating comes as no surprise.
2. Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice
Seeds of Change: Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice is another stand out Quinoa product available on Amazon. It is advertised as an incredibly delicious and made with healthy ingredients. It is important to most healthy eaters that this product contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.
This product is filling and hearty, containing 1.7Kg of brown rice and quinoa. This product is very popular on Amazon with an amazing and much deserved 5 star rating. Many comment on the amazing flavor of the rice and the ease with which it cooks. It is most commonly used as a more impressive or different than the usual side or as a quick, healthy and tasty meal.
To sum it up, we love quinoa for its healthy versatility. You can make a few days’ worth of quinoa and add it to each meal to ensure a wide spectrum of nutrients, protein and fiber is being added to balance your diet. It combines well with many different cultural and seasonal ingredients. Quinoa is an ancient grain, appreciated by many cultures for good reason. Try cycling organic quinoa into your menu plan as much as you see fit. Your body will thank-you for it.
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