Have you been eating merrily and indulging in scrumptious but not-so-healthy foods over the recent Christmas festive period? If so, you may have already gained some pounds and may be trying to figure out a way to lose it again.
But fret not… in order to lose some of that post-festive weight just in time for the Chinese New Year, why not replace your carbohydrate based dishes, such as rice, noodles and bread… with one of nature’s superfoods, quinoa?
Quinoa.
Becoming one of the world’s most popular health foods
Fast becoming one of the world’s most popular health foods, quinoa is gluten free and high in proteins. As well it also contains plenty of fibre, magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphates, Vitamin E and antioxidants.
The gluten free aspect of the quinoa comes in, because quinoa, unlike what many of us might think, is not actually a grain. It is a relative of spinach and beetroot and the part of the quinoa that we commonly eat, is the seed.
Types of quinoa
There are three common types of quinoa – these are the red, white and black quinoa. Overall though there are more than 120 species of quinoa available throughout the world.
White quinoa is the type that is most readily available in stores. This type of quinoa also has the lightest texture and fluffs up after cooking – as such, it may resemble white rice. So it is usually recommended as a healthy replacement for white rice and other forms of refined carbohydrates.
On the other hand, red quinoa has a more chewy texture as well as a richer and nuttier flavour. Cold salads usually incorporate this type of quinoa because it tends to hold its shape well after cooking.
Black quinoa, though, has a more earthy flavour and is sweeter than white quinoa.
Other health benefits of quinoa
Quinoa is also low in glycemic index (GI). The GI of a food is associated with the food’s effect on a person’s blood glucose levels. The lower the GI number, the slower the rate of absorption of that particular food in the body, and thus, the fuller you will feel for a longer period of time. This would thus make you less likely to snack in between meals.
As well, quinoa is also said to help your body metabolise fats more efficiently, due to its high content of proteins and amino acids.
Where to buy quinoa
Quinoa at Superlife Co.
And local health store SuperLife Co., individual portions of quinoa are available and come in a range of Asian inspired flavours, such as Mushroom, Spicy Curry and Japanese Quinoa. These come packaged with real bits of mushrooms, seaweed or other toppings, ensuring a wholesome and ready to cook meal within each package.
The packages also contain no MSG, preservatives or additives. So this makes a healthy and ready-to-eat meal for busy workers who are always on the go.
This blog post was brought to you by SuperLife Co.
Leave a Comment