Bodybuilder eating protein-rich quinoa.
Quinoa is all the rage – but is it worth the hype? In short, yes.
Though it’s been around for ages (the Incas considered it a sacred grain), quinoa has only recently become mainstream in North America. In fact, the United Nations recently called quinoa “one of the world’s superfoods.”
So what is quinoa? And what makes it so special?
Quinoa is the seed of a dark leafy plant that’s related to Swiss chard and spinach. Though technically a seed, it’s often considered a grain because of its taste and texture. Either way, it’s packed with nutrients and a super healthy addition to any diet. Here’s why:
- Quinoa is packed with protein. It’s the only “grain” that’s considered a complete protein – which is especially great for vegans and vegetarians. For every 100 grams of quinoa, you get 14 grams of protein.
- It’s wheat and gluten-free. For allergy-conscious dieters – or for folks with diet restrictions – quinoa is a safe bet.
- Low on the Glycemic Index. With a glycemic index rating in the low 50s (anything 55 and under is considered
low), quinoa doesn’t result in a blood sugar spike. Instead, it’s digested slowly – which helps us feel full longer. This is especially helpful for individuals looking to lose weight. - High in fiber. At 6 grams of fiber per 1/4 cup serving, quinoa has more fiber than an apple! Fiber can help prevent heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes.
- Nutrient powerhouse. Quinoa is packed with nutrients – from iron to riboflavin to magnesium to vitamin B2, quinoa is extremely rich with the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
Cooking quinoa is easy. It’s prepared much like rich – and it can make a healthy addition to many meals. A quick search online will yield countless quick, easy and healthy quinoa recipes.
Are you a quinoa believer? Let me know in the comments below!
you present 5 reasons to love it… and while convincing, there is only 1 reason for me to hate it, and that reason is that it is so damned expensive. Or at least it is expensive in my small city in Indiana.
I think you meant it is cooked a lot like rice? not rich. I am going to have to check this out. I am looking for ways to improve my diet and lose some weight. Thanks for sharing.
James
When I was looking to lose some weight a few months back I cut my bad eating habbits and ate quinoa nearly daily with raw veggies. It helped a lot and I didn’t feel hungry all the time like what happens in most diets. I strongly suggest adding it to your diet over rice, or replacing rice entirely with it.
Quinoa is great and has a rich, nutty taste. I bought some Black Quinoa on a recent trip to Bolivia, and I use it instead of rice with chicken. Good stuff!
I bought some at Costco, but don’t have any decent recipes for it. Even supercooks doesn’t help. Anyone know any?
Allrecipes.com has a ton of quinoa recipes. Epicurious and vegweb are also great. One of my favourite quinoa recipes is mystic mushroom chowder (http://allrecipes.com/recipe/mystic-mushroom-and-quinoa-chowder/detail.aspx). hope that helps
I love quinoa it is delicious and can replace rice and even pasta!
My go-to web site for recipes. World’s largest library. http://www.epicurious.com. I just looked and there are at least 5 pages under Quinoa. Be sure to look at the comments on anything that interests your tastes. They have variations and improvements there.
Man I love quinoa. I have for a while too. Its less expensive than cous cous and WAY more tasty. I believe it is what they refer to as ‘food from the gods’. I am happy that you endorse this awesome addition to any meal. My favourite is quinoa pillaf, veggies (steamed and sauteed) somee chicken or fish and herbs, quinoa cooked in chicken stock…. YUMMY
yep thats right, also if that is too expensive for you as ive read up in comments before try kous kous its really the same thing but cheaper, plus itll fill you up more. its what im using for my diet right now and really is helping me burn the fat and tone my muscles more
where would one buy this?Wholefoods?
Some people aren’t sure of how to pronounce it, quinoa is pronounced “keen-wah” and it’s great stuff!
This is one of the best recipes I’ve tried in a long time! Its hard to believe something that tastes this great can also be so good for you!! I love it!! http://allrecipes.com/recipe/quinoa-and-black-beans/detail.aspx