The Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa: A Vegan Protein Source Rich in Fiber, B Vitamins, and Minerals

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Nutrition Professor, Bachelor's Human Nutritional Sciences · 5 years of experience · Argentina

Quinoa is a vegan protein source, fiber rich whole grain, with group b vitamins and minerals. It is a type of seed that can be used in recipes as rice but with a smaller and more circular shape and texture. Quinoa has to be washed out many times before cooking and consuming it because quinoa´s surface has saponin which is a toxic substance that should be eliminated by washing it out.

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Bachelor in Nutrition · 10 years of experience · Argentina

Yes, it is a pseudo grain high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contains sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids. I is also glute-free. However, before eating this pseudo grain you must rinse it. Rinsing removes quinoa´s natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.

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Master of Research - MRes - MRes Nutrition & Metabolic Disorders · 3 years of experience · UK

Quinoa is a seed also known as a pseudo-cereal because if its grain like look and properties. It is naturally gluten free and many people use it as a replacement for rice, porridge, oats, granola, and wheat where these trigger adverse reactions, allergies or medical conditions. Being a relatively new food item, also called a superfood, quinoa has not been tested for safety or long-term side effects on its own or in combination with other food in double blinded randomized clinical trials; therefore, although it is considered safe to consume, take caution when consuming and monitor any unusual symptoms. Because it is a seed, quinoa comes packed with phytic acid which is a toxin and an irritant as well as beans, pulses, nuts and seeds so if you react to any of these, you most likely will not tolerate quinoa. It is also important to note that there are many types of quinoa and most are farmed in a standard way which means the seeds are contaminated with chemicals like pesticides and insecticides which are high grade antibiotics.

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