Healthcare | Thursday 11 January, 2018 12:19 pm |

Quinoa grain is more like a vegetable than a grain. Originated in South America, it has been used as a diet staple for centuries and is a close relative of spinach, kale and Swiss chard. There are many other great benefits to eating quinoa. India Gate Quinoa shares the five main pillars or benefits of Quinoa.

• It’s all about the protein

High protein content is one of the best reason to enjoy quinoa. It is a low-fat and cholesterol free source of vegetable protein making it perfect for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike and contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs. Unlike the other grains, a serving of quinoa (about 100 grams) contains approximately 8 grams of complete protein, which is hard to find especially in vegetarian form.

• Quinoa is full of fiber.

It has almost twice as much fiber as most other grains we eat.  Because of its high fiber content, quinoa makes you feel full for longer and is perfect for those who have diabetes. Fiber’s important because it can help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

• High in minerals

Quinoa seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, iron and calcium, that most people don’t get enough of. Quinoa contains roughly 5 mg of Iron in a single serving. That is roughly 37% of your daily iron intake. This is essential since fulfilling the iron need of the body is quite important since it maintains healthy cells, skin, hair and nails. And magnesium is good because it promotes healthy blood sugar control.

• Naturally gluten free.

Quinoa is naturally free of gluten and is beneficial for people following a gluten-free diet. Using quinoa can provide nutrients some may be missing from their diet die to elimination of certain traditional grains

• Low Glycemic Index

Quinoa has a wholesome dose of complex carbohydrates and yet has a low GI (Glycemic index), consequently it doesn’t spike blood sugars, as compared to other cereals. This is extremely helpful in order manage diabetes.

 

Quinoa Pancakes Recipe

With Quinoa, you can make the perfect diabetic breakfast recipe! Want to indulge in sweet home-made pancakes? Follow these simple steps to fulfill your cravings and at the same time reap several health benefits as well. Quinoa allows people to indulge guilt-free in foods they cannot eat otherwise!

 

• Ingredients
  • Quinoa flour 1/2 cup
  • Baking powder- 1 tsp
  • Almond powder- 2 tbsps
  • Corn flour- 1 to 1 1/2 tbsps
  • Vanilla extract- 1/2 tsp
  • Milk- ¼ cup
  • Egg- 1
  • Honey- 1 tbsp

 

• Method:

1. Sieve together dry ingredients.
2. Whisk in milk, vanilla, honey and egg yolk.
3. Fold in the dry ingredients and make a batter which is not too thick or thin.
4. Make pancakes on a slow flame without butter.
5. Lightly grease and wipe the pan from time to time.
6. Serve with maple syrup, chocolate sauce or freshly whipped cream.

 

• Nutritive Value

1. Calories: 270.6 kcals
2. Carbs:  31.3g
3. Proteins: 11.7 g
4. Fats: 10.7g
5. Fiber: 1.77g