Today I want to introduce you to quinoa, the world’s favorite cereal. Have you ever wondered why it is included in popular weight-loss diets and menus of famous restaurants, and why it is eaten by celebrities, vegans, and people who are into yoga and fitness?
I will begin with the background. For thousands of years, the staple food of the ancient Incas during their long treks was quinoa balls with fat. After a little digging on the Internet, I realized why.
- First, quinoa is a complete source of protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids, just like cow’s milk.
- Secondly, it contains a lot of fiber, which makes the food very nourishing.
- Thirdly, the high mineral content of quinoa, especially iron and magnesium, speeds up the metabolic processes in the body. This, in turn, leads to faster recovery.
It was this food that increased the stamina of the Indians and helped them survive the harsh conditions of the South American mountains. Hence the other names for quinoa, “mother grain” and “Inca gold.