By Jean Sumner
Quinoa is actually a seed that is extremely nutritious. The breakdown of the nutrients in quinoa is below.
- Protein: 8 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Manganese: 58% of the RDA
- Magnesium: 30% of the RDA
- Phosphorus: 28% of the RDA
- Folate: 19% of the RDA
- Copper: 18% of the RDA
- Iron: 15% of the RDA
- Zinc: 13% of the RDA
- Potassium: 9% of the RDA
- Over 10% of the RDA for Vitamins B1, B2 and B6
- Small amounts of Calcium, B3 (Niacin) and Vitamin E
Quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat. It is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids.
Quinoa contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains. Fiber is most widely known to relieve constipation. It also helps to prevent heart disease by reducing high blood pressure and diabetes. Fiber lowers cholesterol and glucose levels.
Quinoa contains Iron. Iron helps keep our red blood cells healthy and is the basis of hemoglobin formation.
Quinoa contains lysine. Lysine is mainly essential for tissue growth and repair.
Quinoa is rich in magnesium. Magnesium helps to relax blood vessels and thereby to alleviate migraines. Magnesium also may reduce Type 2 diabetes by promoting healthy blood sugar control. Other health benefits of magnesium include transmission of nerve impulses, body temperature regulation, detoxification, energy production, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth.
Quinoa is high in Riboflavin (B2). B2 improves energy metabolism within brain and muscle cells and is known to help create proper energy production in cells.
Quinoa has a high content of manganese. Manganese is an antioxidant, which helps to prevent damage of mitochondria during energy production as well as to protect red blood cells and other cells from injury by free radicals.