TODAY'S POPULAR FOOD "QUINOA"
Quinoa, which has become popular in recent years, is a functional "cereal-like" product that is entering everyone's kitchen with its content and benefits. The history of quinoa, which has just started to appear on our tables in the last 10 years, dates back to 7000 years. Especially Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Chile and Ecuador regions are known as the homeland of quinoa. It has started to be produced in Turkey since 2010. Although it is sold at high prices in our country, it is a very cheap product, especially in South America and Africa. It is thought that it will contribute to the development goals of the United Nations. This is due to its easy adaptation to the soil even in unfavorable climates. At the same time, the fact that it is a product that is easy to access and cheap around the world suggests that it can prevent the problem of world hunger. Considering these reasons, the UN declared 2013 as the "Year of Quinoa" in order to increase the popularity of quinoa.
WHAT ARE THE FEATURES THAT MAKE QUINOA SO IMPORTANT?
Quinoa (Cheropodium Quinoa Willd) is in the functional food group. In other words, it aims to reduce the risk of various diseases. Since it is a gluten-free food, it is frequently preferred especially by Celiac patients. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), its protein content and quality are higher than other grains. For example, the amount of protein in 100 grams of rice is approximately 8 grams, while it is approximately 17 grams in quinoa. Thus, it is considered a good source of protein for vegan and vegetarian individuals. At the same time, it can be easily preferred by individuals who have difficulty accessing protein.
The vitamin and mineral content of quinoa is much higher than other grains. In addition to containing vitamins C and B, its calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and copper content is much richer than wheat. Especially calcium, iron and magnesium are minerals that may be deficient in individuals eating a gluten-free diet. For this reason, quinoa should be included in the diet of these individuals.
At the same time, quinoa acts as a natural antioxidant thanks to the vitamin E it contains. Thus immunity It supports health and provides protection against diseases. Apart from this, the benefits provided by the polyphenols and bioactive compounds contained in quinoa are;
Protection against heart diseases
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Eliminating toxins
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Preventing the development of cancer cells
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Contributing to brain neuron function by protecting the cell membrane
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Preventing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia
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Body weight control
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Relieving constipation problem thanks to the fiber it contains
IF QUINOA IS SO USEFUL, CAN I EAT IT UNLIMITED?
No food should be consumed unlimitedly, considering the benefits it provides. Quinoa is a new food that the digestive system of the Turkish nation is not used to. Therefore, it may cause digestive problems in some individuals. Especially in cases of excessive consumption, situations may occur where it cannot be digested and sticks to the intestines.
No matter how many benefits of quinoa, it should not be consumed in amounts higher than 1 portion per day. The amount of 1 serving of quinoa is about 200 grams, that is, the size of a glass of water. You can consume it by boiling it and mixing it into your salads, or you can use it in pilafs or in making desserts (such as pudding).
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