Quinoa is a kind of edible seed that is available in black, red, yellow, and white, among other hues. The plant is native to the Andean region of South America and has been cultivated for roughly 5000 years. Quinoa flakes are quinoa grains that have been flattened; they still retain all of the grain's nutritional value but cook more quickly. Quinoa is so nutrient-dense and higher in protein than any other grain that NASA has used it to feed astronauts on extended space trips.

Quinoa, in contrast to the majority of plant-based diets, is a complete protein, meaning it has all nine essential amino acids. Your muscles, bones, skin, and blood are all made up of proteins, which are made up of amino acids. Quinoa contains all nine of the "essential" nutrients that must be consumed everyday since your body cannot generate or store them.

Quinoa and quinoa flakes are also good sources of Folate, Iron, Thiamine, Copper, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc. It also has flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in the body. Fiber, a substance that is significant for health, is abundant in quinoa. Your diet can benefit from including more fiber-rich foods by supporting gut health, body weight maintenance, and other factors. Additionally, it is naturally gluten-free, a high source of protein, and can aid in meeting your daily protein requirements.

Quinoa is generally accessible and can be used in a variety of cuisines, both savory and sweet. Simply ensure that your quinoa has been rinsed before cooking to get rid of substances called saponins, which can have a bitter taste. Because it's high in fiber, minerals, antioxidants, and protein, it's a wise choice for a carbohydrate. Additionally, it is delicious, versatile, gluten-free, and remarkably simple to prepare.

Include quinoa as a source of carbohydrates in your diet.

PDO I Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND

References:

8 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Quinoa

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-health-benefits-quinoa#3.-Higher-in-fiber-than-many-grains

Quinoa

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/quinoa/