3 Tasty Reasons to Try Quinoa in Your Diet
By Genevieve Cunningham
Quinoa. This is one of the most mispronounced and misunderstood of all health foods. While it’s been on the market for a while, its popularity has been gaining ground as of late. People are finally understanding its place in the kitchen, and this is causing an increase in its overall use. But even with its growing popularity, it remains misunderstood and underused. If you haven’t made quinoa a part of your diet yet, take a look at these three great reasons to give it a try.
It’s Packed With Protein
Quinoa may be a grain, but it’s one that’s packed full of protein. In fact, the protein content of quinoa is one of the highest of any grain out there. Why does this matter? Because the body needs protein in order to function optimally. Protein helps to build strong muscles, burn fat, keep your appetite under control, and boost overall strength. Since most diets include advice about adding more protein to your menu, quinoa is a great side choice to meet this demand.
It’s High in Fiber
Fiber is an important part of every diet. It keeps the body feeling full, aids in digestion, lowers blood sugar levels, and helps you maintain a healthy weight. Because quinoa contains high amounts of fiber, it can also bring all of these benefits to the table. It’s often the fiber content that makes this a better choice than many other side dishes such as potatoes and white rice.
It’s Naturally Gluten-Free
Gluten-free is all the rage. Whether people actually have a gluten intolerance or not, many are turning to a gluten-free diet. They claim that it keeps inflammation away from the gut, improves digestion, and even helps them to lose weight. For those who are trying to eliminate or limit their gluten intake, quinoa makes a great choice. It is naturally gluten-free, so adding it as a side to any meal gives you a simple, healthy, and delicious gluten-free choice.
Some popular health foods seem too good to be true, but quinoa is not one of these. It’s delicious, especially after you’ve developed a tolerance for the texture, and it’s as healthy as its numerous claims. If you need a quick and easy way to improve your diet, give quinoa a try and expand your diet and recipe box more than ever before.
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