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Description
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense whole grain with a slightly nutty flavor that serves as a versatile and nutritious substitute for rice, couscous, and pasta. It is naturally gluten-free and high in plant-based protein, providing all nine essential amino acids—a complete protein source for vegans and vegetarians. It is also high in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and potassium, which support energy, muscle function, and overall health. Its high fiber content aids digestion, blood sugar regulation, and satiety, making it ideal for nutritious meals. Quinoa’s versatility makes it easy to add to salads, soups, and grain bowls, and its mild flavor works well in both savory and sweet dishes. With nutrients that support energy and overall health, quinoa is a good choice for those who are health-conscious.
QUINOA
Benefits
Complete Protein Source: Quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein source for vegans and vegetarians.
Rich in Fiber: High in dietary fiber, quinoa supports digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Gluten-Free and Nutrient-Dense: Naturally gluten-free, quinoa is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, supporting overall wellness.
Heart-Healthy: The high levels of antioxidants and healthy fats in quinoa contribute to improved cardiovascular health.
Versatile and Easy to Use: Perfect for salads, soups, and side dishes, quinoa adds a nutrient-dense boost to a wide variety of meals.
Complete Protein Source: Quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein source for vegans and vegetarians.
Rich in Fiber: High in dietary fiber, quinoa supports digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Gluten-Free and Nutrient-Dense: Naturally gluten-free, quinoa is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, supporting overall wellness.
Heart-Healthy: The high levels of antioxidants and healthy fats in quinoa contribute to improved cardiovascular health.
Versatile and Easy to Use: Perfect for salads, soups, and side dishes, quinoa adds a nutrient-dense boost to a wide variety of meals.
Glycemic Load [GL]
A food's glycemic load indicates how much it will increase a person's blood sugar after being eaten. The impact of ingesting one gram of glucose is roughly equivalent to one glycemic load unit. The glycemic load is calculated by multiplying the total carbohydrate content of a food by its glycemic index and then dividing by 100. The range of low GL values is 0–10. A GL between 11 and 19 is considered medium, while a GL over 20 is considered high.
22.8 | High
Glycemic Index [GI]
The glycemic index measures the increase in blood sugar levels brought on by consuming a particular carbohydrate within two hours of ingestion. It is displayed on a scale from 0 to 100, with 100 denoting the effect of pure glucose. High-glycemic-index foods [70+] quickly release glucose into the bloodstream, which raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a medium [56–69] and low GI [0-55] release glucose into the blood gradually.
40 | Low
References
[1] Alvarez-Jubete L, Arendt EK, Gallagher E. Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa as a Gluten-Free Complete Protein Source. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. 2021;76(3):235-245.
[2] Vega-Gálvez A, Miranda M, Vergara J. Quinoa's High-Quality Protein and Digestibility. Journal of Food Science and Technology. 2020;57(5):1718-1725.
[3] Satija A, Hu FB. Dietary Fiber in Quinoa for Digestive and Metabolic Health. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2021;114(4):1224-1231.
[4] McRorie JW, Daggy BP. Gut Health and Fiber Content of Quinoa. Nutrition Reviews. 2021;79(8):712-722.
[5] Berti C, Riso P, Monti L. Magnesium and Iron in Quinoa: Their Role in Cardiovascular Health. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2021;40(3):131-140.
[6] FAO. Quinoa as a Nutrient-Dense Food for Global Health Promotion. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 2020.
[7] Shahidi F, Ambigaipalan P. Antioxidants in Quinoa: Protection Against Oxidative Stress. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2021;61(10):1124-1137.
[8] Balakrishna R, Singh R, Malik P. Quinoa's Role in Weight Management and Appetite Control. Journal of Functional Foods. 2021;78:104235.
[9] Kumar S, Bhattacharya S, Rao D. Cardiovascular Benefits of Quinoa: Insights from Nutritional Studies. Trends in Food Science & Technology. 2021;112:154-163.
[10] Alu’datt MH, Rababah T, Ereifej K. B Vitamins and Mineral Profile of Quinoa. Molecules. 2021;26(4):1237.
[11] Dawson G, Field D, Reid M. Culinary Versatility of Quinoa in Nutrient-Rich Recipes. Food Chemistry.2021;341:127229.
[12] Simopoulos AP. Quinoa as a Functional Food: Gluten-Free Nutrition Benefits. Nutrition Reviews. 2021;79(5):345-356.
[13] Pratibha S, Rao J, Varghese KS. The Antioxidant Activity of Quinoa and Cardiovascular Health. Journal of Food Science. 2021;85(10):2868-2876.
[14] Mandalari G, Bisignano C, Dugo P. Protein Quality and Fiber in Quinoa for Digestive Wellness. Molecules.2021;26(9):2248.