Today we talk about quinoa, which belongs to the quenopodiaceae family, like beetroot or spinach, and stands out for its high protein, vitamin and mineral content. It is coming on strong and ready to find a leading role in the healthiest diets.
With a long tradition behind it, this pseudocereal, which originally comes from the Andes and has its roots in countries such as Bolivia, has a multitude of properties and benefits for preventing and combating illnesses, regulating the body and increasing our energy levels.

Properties of quinoa

• It has a high level of protein; it can contain up to 23%.
• It is composed of minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium), vitamins (C, E, B1, B2 and niacin) and phosphorus.
• It is rich in amino acids, which influence brain development.
• Its fat content is rich in Omega 6.
• It is an important source of soluble and insoluble fibre.
• It has a very low glycaemic index.

But these properties may leave you a little cold with so many facts, so here are the 10 incredible benefits of quinoa. If you want to give your meals a healthier touch, we are sure to convince you.

1. Slimming down by eating healthily

Due to its high fibre and protein content compared to other cereals, quinoa has a low glycaemic index. This makes it highly recommended for women who want to lose weight while eating healthily or people with diabetes. Of course, its high level of fibre also helps to improve intestinal transit and prevent constipation. By the way, if you want to find out about other foods that help you lose weight, don’t miss our list.

2. It controls cholesterol levels

Thanks to its fibre and unsaturated lipid content, quinoa helps to control blood cholesterol levels by improving the body’s lipid profile. As you know, we must monitor the balance of fats in the blood to prevent cardiovascular problems. But quinoa is just one of the foods that help control cholesterol.

3. Antioxidant

Quinoa is composed of large amounts of flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol. We know that these names may sound strange to you, but the important thing is what they bring to our body; these are powerful antioxidants that help to purify the body and improve our health.

4. Food for sportspeople

Quinoa contains minerals, complex carbohydrates and protein, making it a valuable food for athletes as a source of energy. Nutritionists explain that quinoa has almost twice the protein (8 grams per cup) of other grains and is one of the few foods that contains all nine essential amino acids our bodies need to build muscle and recover from hard workouts.

5. For people with coeliac disease

Its composition does not contain gluten, so it is recommended for people with coeliac disease or people on gluten-free diets. The great thing about quinoa is that it is naturally gluten-free, making it healthier than other gluten-free foods made synthetically.

6. It helps strengthen hair

Quinoa’s combination of nutrients helps to strengthen and soften damaged hair. We can apply it with a natural mask made by mixing the boiled seeds with a little olive oil. Remember that every hair is different, so you should consult your dermatologist before starting treatment.

7. It takes care of your body

This pseudocereal is not only good for health but also for beauty: including it in our diet helps to combat sagging skin. Thanks to its high protein and vitamin content, we can improve muscle building and thus prevent imperfections such as cellulite and stretch marks. Add them to your detox juices whenever you want to take a little extra care of yourself after a few days of overindulgence… Perfect for cleansing!

8. Moisturised skin

Due to its high protein content, quinoa is ideal for dry and chapped skin as it is a great source of moisture. The best way to apply it is in the form of a mask: boil quinoa grains in a little milk for about 15 minutes and let it cool. Once done, spread it over the face and leave it on for half an hour. Bear in mind that the skin is a very delicate area and that we should not start a treatment without our dermatologist’s supervision.

9. It helps reduce migraines

Quinoa contains a high level of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessel walls, which lowers blood pressure. American doctor Mehmet Oz explains on his TV programme that, the composition of quinoa can help fight migraine.

10. Natural anti-stress

Infusions made from quinoa grains help regulate stress caused by daily routine. The infusion is recommended before going to sleep to act as a relaxant during the night.

Source: www.enfemenino.com.