Rice is a strict no-no for diet-conscious people because of the number of carbs; however, sometimes we crave it but can’t have it. Not anymore! Try Quinoa! The following article has listed some benefits of replacing your regular white rice with Quinoa.
Quinoa is an edible seed inside an herbaceous plant rich in vitamins, dietary fiber, and protein. However, the leaves of the plant are also eatable due to their spinach-like texture.
Some advantages of adding it to your diet are:
- It is gluten-free
Glutenous protein is not digestible by everyone, and it doesn’t have essential nutrients in it. That’s why Quinoa is a good option since it is naturally gluten-free and has a lot of nutrients like copper, magnesium, potassium, etc.
- It is high in fiber
Eating food high in fiber helps to control blood pressure & cholesterol and prevent constipation. Hence, try to incorporate Quinoa as it has more amount of soluble fiber than any other grain.
- It keeps full for longer
Since Quinoa is rich in all amino acids required for the body, it helps to feel full for a more extended period. Also, being a complete protein, it acts as an excellent plant-based protein for vegans and vegetarians.
- Better carbs and calories than white rice
A cup of Quinoa has approximately 39 carbs and 222 calories, which are 15 times less in carbs and 40 fewer calories from a cup of white rice. That’s why Quinoa is a better choice for those who are on a low-carb diet.
- Helps to lose weight
Glycemic index is low in Quinoa, and it is high in protein, which helps to boost metabolism and reduce appetite. The reduced appetite will stop you from snacking, mid-night binging, which will reduce your calorie intake, making you help to lose or control weight.
There are 120 types of Quinoa grown by the farmer, but red, white, and black are most commonly used and available. As a versatile plant, you can incorporate it easily in your breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The considerate thing to keep in mind is to wash it thoroughly to get rid of the bitter taste present in saponins. After that, boil the Quinoa and ta-da! Add to it your salad basket, make stuff potatoes or pumpkin, Upma, burgers, etc. Quinoa goes well with both sweet and savory palates and will give a nutty texture to your dish.
But remember that eating Quinoa can cause stomachache, itchy skin, or other food allergies. So, make sure you check beforehand that you don’t have any allergy to saponins.
Hence, next time you crave white rice, make Quinoa, an easy-to-make, gluten-free, and delicious substance for more health benefits.
