1. What Is QuinoaQuinoa, a species of goosefoot(Chenopodium) is a pseudo cereal (thatis their seeds can be ground into flourand consumed) rather than a true cereal,as it is not a member of the true grassfamily.It is also closely related to species suchas beetroot, spinach and tumbleweedwhich have shrub like growth.

2. Where Does Quinoa Grow?It originated in the Andean region of Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia andPeru, where it was domesticated 3,000 to 4,000 years ago for humanconsumption and found its place into the humble Indian household(albeit being an upper middle class commodity).It gained popularity and has been cultivated away from naturaldistributionin places like the United States, Australia and Japan to name a few. 3. Nutrition Facts OfQuinoaBased On 1 Cup Serving 4. What Are The NutritionalBenefits?Essential Amino AcidsQuinoa seeds contain essential amino acids like lysine andacceptable quantities of calcium, phosphorus, and iron.A study showed that deficiency of essential amino acidsleads to symptoms of nervousness, exhaustion, anddizziness to a greater or lesser extent and moderateconsumption of Quinoa can help avoid such symptoms. 5. Anti-Inflammatory Prevents ObesityQuinoa provides a hearty combination of anti-inflammatory compounds thatdecrease risk of inflammation-related problems, such as, obesity. 6. Gluten Free And High In ProteinIt is high in protein and lacks gluten which isgood newsfor those who suffer from Celiac disease.It is easy to digest. 7. Super FoodThe nutrient composition of Quinoa is favorable compared withcommon cereals earning the Quinoa grain the title of super food.Nutritional evaluations indicate that quinoa is a source of completeprotein, that is, it contains all the essential amino acids required in ahuman diet in correct proportions.The protein content per 100 calories is higher than brown rice,potatoes,barley and millet, but is less than wild rice (Indian rice) and oats. 8. Heart Healthy FatsIn comparison to cereal grasses like wheat, quinoa ishigher in fat content and can provide valuableamounts of heart-healthy fats like monounsaturatedfat (in the form of oleic acid).FiberThe grain is additionally a good source of dietary fiberand phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. 9. Vegan Friendly and Good For ThoseWho Are Lactose IntolerantIt is also a source of calcium, and thus,is useful for vegans and those who are lactoseintolerant. 10. How To Eat QuinoaQuinoa comes in seed form as a commercial product.The seeds are in general cooked the same way as rice andcan be used in a wide range of dishes.The good news is processes of boiling, simmering, and steaming quinoa donot appear to significantly compromise the quality of quinoa's fatty acids,allowing us to enjoy its cooked texture and flavor while maintaining thisnutrient benefit.The leaves are eaten as a leaf vegetable, much like amaranth,but, the commercial availability of quinoa greens is limited. 11. The seeds are softened making themsuitable to be added to salads and othercold foods, making quinoa a versatilefood.HealthyBodyHappySpirit.blogspot.com