Quinoa Benefits

Quinoa is a Powerfood Vegetable Seed!

Most people think it's a grain but it's an actually a seed from a vegetable related to Swiss chard, spinach and beets. Here's its benefits, its history and tips and cautions:

1.High Quality Protein
It has nine essential amino acids, the protein balance is similar to milk. At 16.2 to 20 percent protein, it has more protein than rice (7.5%), millet (9.9%) or wheat (14%).

2. Great Source of Riboflavin
Riboflavin has been shown to help reduce the frequency of attacks in migraine sufferers by improving the energy metabolism within the brain and muscle cells.

3. Inca warriors had more stamina and quicker recovery time by eating these quinoa seeds, making it a truly ancient powerfood.

4. Antiseptic
The saponins from quinoa are used to promote healing of skin injuries in South America

5. Not Fattening
Only 172 calories per 1/4 cup dry (24 of the calories from protein and only 12 from sugars, the rest are complex carbohydrates, fiber and healthy fats).

6. Gluten Free
Since it is not related to wheat, or even a grain, it is gluten-free.

7. Alkaline-forming
Although it is not strongly alkaline-forming, it is comparable to wild rice, amaranth and sprouted grains.

8. Smart Carb
It is a complex carbohydrate with a low glycemic index, so it won't spike your blood sugar.