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Cauliflower pancakesChances are you've already heard of quinoa, the darling of superfood fans. Kaniwa (sometimes spelled canihua) is closely related to quinoa, and it has a nutty flavor similar to quinoa. Both are also native to the Andes Mountains in South America. Also in terms of nutritional value and health benefits, kaniwa resembles quinoa. However, as the rest of this article shows, there are also some interesting differences between kaniwa and quinoa in terms of nutrient composition.
Treasure Trove of Flavonoids
Flavonoids are among the most intensively-studied antioxidants, and kaniwa has been shown to contain exceptionally high levels of flavonoids, particularly isorhamnetin and quercetin. In fact, kaniwa has been shown to contain even more flavonoids than quinoa, its close relative.
In addition to providing anti-aging benefits for the skin, flavonoids may help prevent cardiovascular diseases, inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and viruses, and reduce the risk of certain inflammatory diseases.
Nutrient-Rich, Gluten-Free Substitute for Wheat
Whole-grain wheat is an excellent source of of B vitamins and essential minerals such as magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, iron, phosphorus and manganese. But wheat also contains gluten, a protein composite that can cause gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and flatulence in certain people. Also many other common grains, such as barley and rye, contain gluten.
Kaniwa, like its cousin quinoa, is naturally gluten-free; yet, it is supercharged with B vitamins and a wide range of minerals, including calcium, iron and phosphorus, as shown in the Nutrition Facts for Kaniwa table below.
Nutrition Facts for Kaniwa Seeds
- Protein: 15.4 g (31%)
- Crude fat:6.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 61 g (20%)
- Crude fiber: 7.7 g (31%)
- Thiamin (B1): 0.7 mg (48%)
- Riboflavin (B2): 0.4 mg (25%)
- Niacin (B3): 1.4 mg (7%)
Vitamins
- Calcium: 134 mg (13%)
- Iron: 15 mg (86%)
- Phosphorus: 424 mg (42%)