7 Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Superfood Quinoa

Pronounced ‘key-new-ah’, this superfood has become a popular component of a lot of diets. Being gluten free, high in nutrients and a good source of protien, it’s no wonder this superfood is here to stay. Howver, there’s more to this superfood, and it’s use in diets isn’t completely new. Confused? Read on to find out more. 

Quinoa, The Mother Of All Grain 

Though technically a seed, and not a grain, quinoa is considered the mother of all grains. Interestingly though, it’s a part of the goosefoot family, making it related to beets, and spinach – all of which are tremendous for your health! Quinoa, beetroot, spinach pulao, anybody? 

Quinoa Is Packed With Nutrients 

According to the USDA one cup of cooked quinoa has 2.8 grams of iron, or 15% of your daily recommended intake. It is also protien rich and contains vitamin E, Thiamin, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Zinc, Copper and Managanese. Phew, no wonder it’s called a superfood! 

Quinoa Is a Highly Adaptable Crop 

Good news travellers, you can grow your quinoa wherever you go. Quinoa can take the heat and the cold. It can be  grown from sea level to an altitude of 4,000 meters, and can withstand temperatures from minus eight to 38-degrees Celsius. A lesser known fact – 80% of the world’s Quinoa is grown in South America, specifically in Peru and Bolivia. 

Quinoa Can Give You Luscious Locks

Ladies and gentlemen, want your hair to have that sleek, shiny look? Eat Quinoa! The vegetable protien in Quinoa cleans your hair follicles. Its nine amino acids protect hair shafts, strengthening and even repairing damaged hair.  It also reduces dry scalp and dandruff, and treats split ends. 

In Some Countries, Quinoa Can Get You High 

Ofcourse that depends on how much you drink, but Chicha is a Central and South American commonly consumed beverage. It is typically made of corn, but in a lot of cases Quinoa is also used! However. its taste varies depending on which country you’re in, and whether it’s been fermented (akin to beer) or not.

NASA Has Served Quinoa For Long-Duration Manned Spaceflights 

Long before Quinoa was used in the health industry, it was used by NASA to feed their astronauts. The World Health Organization even equates its protein levels to that found in milk. Having zero cholesterol and the most nutrients per 100 calories, this gluten-free super seed has helped nourish astronauts to infinity and beyond!