Is Quinoa Good for Diabetes?

Quinoa (pronounced as keen-wah) or Chenopodium quinoa is an annual herb of the goosefoot family. The herb is known for its edible starchy seeds. It is native to the Andean highlands and is popular over the world for its health benefits.

• Quinoa seeds may be used as cooked grains or grounded into flour. These are gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and other nutrients.
  • Gluten is the general name given to the protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, which may not be tolerated by some people because of health conditions such as gluten allergy or celiac disease.
• Quinoa is one of the few plant sources that are considered a complete protein. The seeds contain all the nine essential amino acids needed for good health.
• Quinoa seeds come in the category of pseudocereals (not true cereals; includes plants such as amaranth, quinoa, and buckwheat that produce fruits and seeds but are not a part of the grass family).
• Quinoa is considered a superfood because of its rich nutrient profile packed with antioxidants, protein, minerals, vitamins, and fiber.

Quinoa seeds are considered a superfood because they are rich in various nutrients including protein, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. The various health benefits of quinoa are as follows:

• Weight management: Quinoa is rich in fiber and protein. Both these ingredients help you stay full for longer, thus helping in limiting the calorie intake.
• Healthy muscles: Being a source of complete protein (all essential amino acids are present), quinoa may help maintain muscle health. They may also provide comfort to the sore muscles after a workout.
• Diabetes-friendly: Quinoa is a whole grain, rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and proteins. They help in managing diabetes and preventing the complications of the disease.
• Maintaining cardiovascular health: Quinoa helps maintain heart health and regulate blood pressure. Potassium present in quinoa is essential in maintaining a healthy heartbeat and lowering blood pressure. Vitamins in this grain are also needed for overall health.
• Healthy immune system: Studies have reported that quinoa helps boost immunity. It can also reduce swelling and inflammation in the body.