Quinoa: A Superfood for Gut Health

Nowadays, we know of many gut diseases like celiac diseaseconstipationleaky gutIBS, and IBD. These patients share a common problem—they cannot eat all foods due to their digestive issues. Additionally, some patients have gluten intolerance. Today, we will discuss quinoa, a superfood that benefits these patients.

Healthy high protein vegan plant based lunch bowl with mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, herbed chickpeas and quinoa

What is quinoa and its background history?

Quinoa is called a superfood. The scientific name of quinoa is Chenopodium quinoa, a plant species grown for its tiny edible seeds. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae family.

The plant has been cultivated for about 5,000 years and is indigenous to the Andean region of South America, especially in Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Peru. Quinoa was an ancient food for the Inca people.

Quinoa’s nickname is Chisiyo Mama, which means “mother of all grains.” Quinoa is also known as a sacred food because of its ability to survive in extremely harsh environments and its dense nutritional value.

Types of quinoa

Quinoa is an edible seed and whole grain that comes in various colors, including red, yellow, and white.

Properties and mechanisms

Quinoa is rich in functional ingredients that are highly significant for improving human health.

Functional components include:

  • Polyphenols
  • Flavonoids
  • Carbohydrates
  • Peptides
  • Saponins

Key properties:

  • Bioactive
  • Bioavailable
  • Easy to digest
  • Rich in dietary fiber
  • Low glycemic index (53)
  • Contains kaempferol, a polyphenol
  • Antioxidant

Most grains do not contain all the amino acids needed to make a protein. Quinoa contains all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. For this reason, quinoa is called a superfood.

Nutritional value per 100g quinoa:

ItemValue
Energy1611 kJ
Protein13.6 g
Fat6 g
Carbs68 g
Sodium56 mg

Quinoa also contains many helpful vitamins and minerals, including:

  • Manganese
  • Phosphorus
  • Copper
  • Folate
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Potassium

Wooden bowl of quinoa seeds isolated on white background with clipping path, close up, top view

Health benefits of quinoa

1. Complete protein: Quinoa is a good source of complete protein, which helps reduce protein deficiency, even though we consume it as a carbohydrate.

2. Improves gut health: Quinoa is a good source of fiber. Eating quinoa can fulfill fiber requirements, which is essential for improving gut health.

3. Prevents chronic cardiovascular diseases: Quinoa helps to prevent chronic CVD.

4. Diabetic control: Quinoa’s low glycemic index helps manage diabetes. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes can try eating quinoa, but they should monitor their sugar levels. If levels rise, they should avoid it; if normal, they can eat it occasionally.

5. Prevents constipation: Quinoa’s dietary fiber content helps prevent constipation. Eating fermented quinoa provides even more fiber.

6. Gluten-free: Quinoa is a gluten-free food. It is suitable for people with gluten intolerance and helps prevent celiac disease.

7. Prevents dyslipidemia: Quinoa helps reduce triglycerides and increase HDL levels.

8. Reduces vitamin and mineral deficiencies: Quinoa is rich in vitamins and minerals, helping to combat deficiencies.

Preparation or conditions before eating quinoa

To get the full benefits of quinoa, follow these tips:

  1. Baking soda: Consume baking soda before eating quinoa to help alkalize the blood.
  2. Coffee enema: It can not be finished to say coffee enema benefits. Perform a coffee enema to cleanse the colon. A clean gut ensures maximum absorption of quinoa’s nutrients.
  3. Turmeric tea: Drink turmeric tea to reduce inflammation.
  4. Green juice: Consume green juice with spirulina for prebiotics and fiber.
  5. Fasting: Occasional fasting improves digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.
  6. Exercise: Daily exercise relaxes the mind and improves gut health.
 

Home made roasted cauliflower,butternut squash and quinoa salad

Sequence of eating quinoa

  1. Consume organic coconut vinegar 15 minutes before meals.
  2. Eat probiotic drinks like beet kvass.
  3. Combine quinoa with green leafy vegetables for fiber and a slow release of sugar.
  4. Add protein sources like fish, eggs, or meat.
  5. Include organic coconut oil or ghee for added nutrition.

How to eat quinoa

  1. Chew properly: Chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion.
  2. Relax and enjoy: Practice mindful eating by eating slowly and being present during meals.
  3. Sleep quality: Quality sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthy foods won’t help if you don’t sleep well.
  4. Relaxation techniques: Improve your relaxation to enhance digestion. Plz, Read our article on relaxation techniques for tips on relieving tension, stress, and anxiety naturally.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to eat quinoa?

You can use it in soups or salads or eat it in a fermented form to boost fiber intake.

2. What is the best time to eat quinoa?

Quinoa can be consumed anytime during the day, but it is especially beneficial before bedtime as it relaxes muscles.

3. Who should avoid quinoa?

Avoid quinoa if you experience digestive issues like bloating or if you are allergic to the seeds.

4. How to Eat Quinoa?

The best way to eat quinoa is the fermented way. If you eat quinoa this way, you will get more benefits. Plz Read our article on foxtail millets, where we share how to add more fiber by eating foxtail millets in a fermented way. You can use quinoa instead of foxtail millets. The nutrient value of these two foods is similar. Millets and quinoa are both called superfoods. You can also eat quinoa fried rice, which is a delicious and healthy option.

Can I Eat Quinoa Every Day?

If you’re eating quinoa for the first time, don’t overeat. Start by eating one or two cups of quinoa and observe how your body responds. If you experience problems like vomiting, itchiness, or stomachache, stop eating it. If you don’t have any issues, you can enjoy one bowl of quinoa per day.

Is Quinoa Actually Good for You?

Yes, quinoa is good for you because it contains nutrients and offers many health benefits. .Quinoa is also a high-fiber food.

 

Researches

Prebiotic Properties:

Quinoa contains polysaccharides that improve the growth of good gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Collinsella. These microbes are associated with reducing inflammatory conditions, type 1 diabetes, and colorectal cancer. Quinoa’s fermentation by gut microbes produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyric acid, which are vital for colon health and reducing inflammation.
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MicrobiomePost.com

Impact on Gut Microbiota:

Studies show quinoa can help balance the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria like Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes. These changes improve digestion and relive symptoms of gut-related issues such as colitis.
MicrobiomePost.com

Nutritional Advantages:

Quinoa is a high dietary fiber and its complete protein is very beneficial for improving gut motility and repair. Its polyphenols and antioxidants also play an important role in reducing oxidative stress in the digestive system.
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MicrobiomePost.com

For detailed scientific insights, you can review studies from reputable journals like Food Science & Nutrition

Frontiers

MicrobiomePost.com

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