12 Health Benefits of Quinoa, According to Science (+8 Delicious Recipes To Try)

In recent years, quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) has become a buzzword among the health-conscious. Considered a trendy superfood, quinoa’s superior make-up earns its status.

Quinoa, a seed among grains, can be served hot or cold, and is typically boiled in the same manner as rice. It is simple to prepare and makes for a great substitute to other grains that might not be as nutritionally complete, such as wheat and rice.

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Quinoa is coated in saponins, which are bitter-tasting compounds that act as a natural pesticide. Because of this, it is important to thoroughly rinse and soak quinoa before cooking. Saponins are found in other vegetables as well--they are the agents that cause foaming and mimic a soapy lather when these foods are rinsed with water.

The three main varieties of quinoa are white, red, and black, with white quinoa being the most common and readily available in stores. Quinoa is also sold in flake form and can also be purchased as a flour, commonly used in gluten-free baked goods.

A Storied History

Researchers trace quinoa’s roots back to the Inca Empire of the Andes region of South America, 3000 B.C. (present day Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile). It is in this region that quinoa thrived; in 3000 B.C., approximately 250 varieties of quinoa grew here.

Long before greenhouses and technology made cultivation easier, quinoa was harvested in a variety of climates. Its tolerance for multiple growing conditions made it a food of choice among the ancients, thriving in high altitudes, tolerating hot sun, and surviving chilling freezes. Additionally, all parts of the plant are edible, though today it is mainly the seeds that are packaged and sold.

The traditional Andean cultures regarded quinoa as both a food as well as a medicinal plant. Quinoa is a demulcent (or anti-inflammatory) grain; it protects mucous membranes as well as the lining of internal organs. Ancient cultures have used quinoa to ease sour stomachs, treat constipation, and provide remedies for tuberculosis and gonorrhea.

Most quinoa sold in the U.S. still comes from South America today, but presently there is an estimate of over 1,800 varieties of quinoa available worldwide.

“Superfood” Status

Quinoa has a reputation for being nutrient-dense, with a profile that mimics grains but differs in a few key areas. Quinoa is grouped with grains due to the manner in which it is typically eaten, but in technical terms, quinoa is considered a "pseudocereal." Pseudocereals are a subgroup of foods that are not quite grains, but can be easily ground into flour in the same way grains can. Quinoa can be served as both sweet and savory, and can provide a gluten-free alternative for other typically-glutenous grains.

Interestingly, quinoa actually belongs to the same family of foods as spinach and beets.

One of quinoa's defining features is its potent punch of protein. It also contains high levels of fiber, certain vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants, making it a well-rounded addition to your diet.

The Break Down

The impressive nutrition content per one cup of cooked quinoa is:

Calories 222

Carbohydrates 39 grams

Fat 4 grams

Protein 8 grams

Fiber 5 grams

Quinoa also contains a considerable amount of manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, folate, copper, iron, zinc, potassium, and vitamin B, as well as small amounts of vitamin E, niacin (B3), and calcium.

Below are just a few of the many health benefits of this versatile food.

1. It's a complete protein containing all 9 essential amino acids.

Arguably the most well-known attribute of quinoa is that it is a “complete protein,” containing all 9 essential amino acids. This sets it apart from other grains and plantfoods.

Amino acids are the building blocks of life and are digested and transformed into proteins in the human body. Amino acids can break down food, repair body tissue, and be used as a source of energy, among other important functions.

The body cannot produce essential amino acids on its own, therefore consuming foods, like quinoa, that contain all of the essential amino acids, is imperative for our health and wellness.

Other members of the grain family tend to be low in lysine and are therefore considered "incomplete proteins."

Lysine is a necessary amino acid for the human body. It helps the body absorb calcium, burn fat, and maintain skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. Quinoa is considered to be a superior grain by the simple fact that it contains this amino acid. As most sources of lysine come from animal products such as meats and cheeses, quinoa is a rare and exceptional plant source of this amino acid.

Due to its status as a complete protein, quinoa is a smart choice for those with dietary restrictions, such as lactose-intolerance, vegetarianism/veganism, and certain allergies.

Warnings of a protein deficiency include the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty losing weight

  • Low energy levels

  • Fatigue

  • Muscle pain

  • Joint pain

  • Low immunity

A cup of quinoa, weighing in at 222 calories and 8 grams of protein, puts it on par with one egg, but with none of the cholesterol.

The average sedentary American needs between 46-56 grams of protein daily. The more active you are, the more protein your body requires. To calculate your individual protein needs, plug in your numbers into this calculator.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa is a complete protein, unlike other grains, making it a superior nutritional choice compared to other grains.

2. It reduces inflammation.

The antioxidants found in quinoa help reduce inflammation in the body. Antioxidants prevent damage to the body caused by free radicals (atoms or molecules that interfere with the normal functioning of cells).

Inflammation is, in essence, the body’s natural defense mechanism. When foreign bodies invade the body, such as allergens, bacteria, and viruses, the human body produces white blood cells to protect and block from infection.

Chronic inflammation is when the immune system is triggered when no foreign bodies are present in the body. Examples of inflammatory diseases include arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other diseases of the joints.

Chronic inflammation can sap energy and increase the risk of cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. Certain antioxidants can prevent, protect against, and reduce inflammation. Quinoa contains these particular antioxidants, known as flavanoids.

Flavanoids come from plant sources. Scientists believe that one of those flavanoids--polyphenols--can reduce the risk of cancer, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Quercetin and kaempferol, two other antioxidants found in quinoa, are also linked to lowering inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that quercetin and kaempferol have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects in animal studies, and scientists continue to study the effects of these antioxidants in humans, believing that they have the same effects on humans.

Quercetin has also been found to decrease inflammation markers in the blood, which proves it effectiveness in reducing inflammation.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa’s antioxidants and flavanoids are linked to lower rates of inflammation and reduced risk of certain diseases like arthritis and other diseases of the joints.

3. It helps trim your waistline.

One of today’s biggest health epidemics is obesity. More than 36.5% of U.S. adults are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Obesity contributes to some of the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S., including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers.

Both exercise and nutrition are key to maintaining a healthy weight, but when put to the test, diet is considered the more important factor, specifically a diet rich in fiber.

Fortunately, quinoa provides plenty of it.

An average taken from 4 varieties of quinoa found that per 100 grams of (raw) quinoa, there are 10-16 grams of fiber. About 1.5 of those grams of fiber are soluble fiber. Soluble fiber attracts water and slows down the rate of digestion, which has been shown to reduce appetite, aid weight loss efforts, and reduce cholesterol. After quinoa is boiled, it contains about 5 grams of fiber, as it absorbs a large amount of water during cooking.

Because fiber promotes a feeling of fullness, it can help reduce the risk of overeating and in turn, reduce rates of obesity. The RDI of fiber for a 2,000-calorie diet is 28 grams, however, Americans on average consume only 15 grams of fiber each day. The Standard American Diet, which is largely comprised of processed foods rather than plant-based whole foods, accounts for some of these fiber deficiencies. Consuming whole foods like quinoa helps to counteract these deficiencies.

Complications of consuming too little fiber include constipation, hemorrhoids, and bowel disease. Foods high in fiber, like quinoa, promote intestinal health.

Key Takeaway: A diet that includes quinoa can help you lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of intestinal disease.

4. It's an iron-rich plantfood.

Iron is typically linked to red meat, but for a plant, quinoa contains an impressive amount of it.

Iron is necessary for many biological functions, including the very important task of transporting oxygen throughout the body. Iron plays other integral roles as well, including producing red blood cells, converting glucose to energy, contributing to normal cognitive function, and producing enzymes (and thus new cells). (16)

Iron deficiency leads to anemia, which is a reduction of red blood cells. Anemia occurs when the body does not contain enough iron, and is common, especially among women of childbearing age. Eating too few iron-rich foods can lead to iron deficiency, as well as blood loss (due to internal bleeding, menstruation, or injury).

Symptoms of iron deficiency include:

  • Fatigue

  • Weakness

  • Pale skin

  • Dizziness

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Brittle nails

  • Headaches

  • Shortness of breath

Quinoa can help combat iron deficiency and anemia. Quinoa is an iron-rich food: one cup of cooked quinoa provides 15% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of iron.

Quinoa is rich in many nutrients, but also contains phytic acid, which can reduce the absorption of those essential nutrients. Soaking quinoa before preparing and eating it will help reduce the loss of vital nutrients that quinoa is so known for. (18)

Key Takeaway: Quinoa is a great source of iron, higher than most other plantfoods, and can help combat iron deficiency. Be sure to soak in water before eating to retain its nutritional excellence.

5. It's also rich in magnesium.

Like iron, quinoa is also high in magnesium.

Magnesium is necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body, most notably biochemical reactions related to the health of nerves, muscles, bones, and the immune system.

It is estimated that up to 80% of people have a magnesium deficiency. As such, magnesium has become quite a buzzword in recent years.

Magnesium deficiency can manifest in many ways, including the following symptoms:

  • Behavioral disturbances

  • Irritability

  • Lethargy

  • Impaired memory

  • Nausea

  • Muscle spasms

  • Tremors

  • Vertigo

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Additional deficiencies such as calcium and potassium deficiency

Conditions related to low magnesium include depression, chronic fatigue, epilepsy, parkinson's, sleep disorders, cluster headaches, osteoporosis, chest pain, type 2 diabetes, asthma, and more.

As evidenced above, a deficiency in magnesium can lead to difficult-to-manage full-body complications. Quinoa provides about 30% of the RDI of magnesium to help combat this extremely common deficiency.

Again, as mentioned previously, beware of phytic acid. As recommended above, soaking quinoa before preparing and eating will help to retain its vital nutrients.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa is a great source of magnesium, which is a nutrient about 80% of people are deficient in. Be sure to soak quinoa in water before eating to maximize nutritional benefits.

6. One serving contains over half of your daily requirement of manganese.

A serving of quinoa contains nearly 60% of the RDI of manganese, a vital mineral that helps fight free radicals.

Manganese is important for the health and function of the bones, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. It is only present in small amounts in the body on its own, and low levels of it can cause a variety of health problems, including infertility, bone disease, and seizures. It is also linked to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), diabetes, and epilepsy.

Manganese is a critical mineral to brain health, nerve function, regulating blood glucose levels, and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.

It is estimated that close to 40% of the general population does not get adequate amounts of manganese from their diet. The Standard American Diet contains more refined grains than whole grains, which at least partially accounts for this deficiency.

Luckily, this is an easy problem to fix: whole grains like quinoa are an excellent source of manganese and are the most recommended dietary source to increase levels of this mineral in the body.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa has an abundant amount of manganese, a mineral that up to 40% of people are deficient in. Be sure to soak quinoa in water before eating to receive the maximum levels of this mineral.

7. It has a low glycemic index.

High blood sugar can wreak havoc on the body, and a diet rich in foods like quinoa can help lower high blood sugar.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that about 86 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, a complication of high blood sugar. Heightened blood sugar can cause damage to the pancreas, affecting its ability to produce insulin. It can also cause atherosclerosis--the hardening of blood vessels.

Common complications of high blood sugar include:

  • Kidney failure

  • Stroke

  • Blindness

  • Neuropathy

  • Poor circulation

  • Slow wound healing

  • Potential amputation (typically toes and feet)

The glycemic index (or GI) is a tool to rank carbohydrates according to their propensity for raising blood glucose levels. The scale measures various foods from 1-100, with 1 being the lowest glycemic index and 100 being the highest. Foods with a lower glycemic index are ideal for diabetics and others that are monitoring their sugar intake. Foods with a low glycemic index promote steady blood sugar levels over longer periods of time. Foods with a high glycemic index cause a large spike in blood glucose, followed by a “sugar crash.”

Foods that fall under a glycemic index of 55 are considered “low-glycemic range.” Quinoa has a glycemic index of 53, qualifying it as a low-glycemic food. Part of the secret of its low number is its high amount of fiber. One benefit of fibrous foods is that they slow down the movement of food through the system, which in turn reduces the rate of sugar absorption.

To keep your meal’s glycemic index as low as possible when preparing quinoa, try to cook meals that include other unprocessed, whole foods such as fresh vegetables or fruits. Mixing sugar additives in with your quinoa dish will only raise the glycemic index. (24)

Key Takeaway: Quinoa has a low glycemic index, which means that your blood sugar won’t spike after eating it. This is especially important for diabetics and those that are monitoring their sugar intake.

8. It contains essential B vitamins.

Quinoa is also an exemplary source of B vitamins. It contains an impressive amount of B1 (known commonly as both thiamine and thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), and B6, among lesser amounts of other B vitamins.

B vitamins are extremely important to our health. They are water soluble, meaning the body does not store them for later use. Due to their water solubility, the body requires replenishing of B vitamins from food, as leftover amounts are discarded through urination.

B vitamins are known to strengthen the immune system.

B1

Vitamin B1 plays an important role in metabolizing energy. Most people rarely experience a B1 deficiency, however, symptoms of a deficiency include headache, fatigue, irritability, and abdominal discomfort.

B2

Vitamin B2 fights free radicals and works as an antioxidant. Vitamin B2 deficiency is also rare. Symptoms of a deficiency include fatigue, slowed growth, eye fatigue, and sores around the mouth.

B6

Vitamin B6 creates antibodies to fight against disease, makes hemoglobin (which carries oxygen to tissues in the body), breaks down proteins, and regulates blood glucose levels.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa is a source of B vitamins and consuming it can help maintain the levels of B vitamins in the body, as B vitamins are water soluble and require consistent replenishing.

9. It's ideal for those with dietary restrictions, especially the gluten-free and vegan.

Quinoa is a great stand-in for those with gluten intolerance, gluten sensitivity, and Celiac disease.

Gluten is the only known protein that is completely indigestible, and in people with allergies and sensitivities to it, gluten can cause inflammation. Inflammation and other complications occur when gluten molecules slip through the intestinal lining whole.

Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free food and is more nutrient-dense than other grains typically consumed in a gluten-free diet, such as corn and rice. A study done by Columbia University found that adding foods like quinoa to a gluten-free diet significantly improved the nutritional value of these diets, including an increase in the content of B-vitamins. (20, 26)

Likewise, quinoa is a great choice for vegans and vegetarians. A study done by Harvard Medical School suggests that choosing healthier proteins, like quinoa, over red meat could lengthen your lifespan. The study, which spanned two decades, found that people whose main protein source was red meat tended to die younger, and to die more frequently of heart disease and cancer, than those who consumed alternate forms of protein (like quinoa).

Rich in iron and one of very few plant foods to offer all 9 essential amino acids, quinoa is the cream of the crop for the meat-free. Combining quinoa with other protein-rich foods, like beans, legumes, and tofu, can help provide a balanced vegan/vegetarian diet--and possibly a longer life. (20)

Key Takeaway: Quinoa offers a bevy of nutritious options for people who avoid gluten, meat, dairy, and/or eggs in their daily diets, either by choice, due to allergies, or due to disease.

10. It boosts energy, mood, and works as an antidepressant.

It is clear that the physical body benefits from superfoods like quinoa, but research also suggests that quinoa might be considered “brain food.” Some scientists have seen a link between foods with a high mineral content and the reduction and treatment of symptoms of mild to moderate depression. It is believed that the high mineral content boosts serotonin levels in the brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, and scientists believe it plays a role in regulating mood. (28) Low serotonin levels may contribute to depression, which has such symptoms as sadness, fatigue, irritability, and loss of interest in previously-enjoyed activities.

Foods like quinoa not only help boost serotonin in the brain, but quinoa’s outstanding nutrition report card also wards off fatigue and anemia.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa promotes mental health by raising energy levels, serotonin, and reducing fatigue and anemia.

11. It's versatile...

Unlike some superfoods, quinoa is extremely accessible. It is sold at national grocery chains and like its fellow grains, it can be purchased in bulk as well as in convenient, pre-seasoned, ready-to-cook packets. Because its texture so closely mimics oatmeal, cous-cous, rice, bulgar, and barley, quinoa can be cooked in a variety of ways to please a variety of palettes. Its versatility makes it easy to incorporate into your everyday diet, standing in for any dish that traditionally uses grains.

Add quinoa as an ingredient to your appetizers, snacks, sides, soups, dinners, and desserts. It’s gluten-free, cholesterol-free, vegan, protein-rich, magnesium-rich, iron-rich, fiber-rich, antioxidant-rich, filling, easy to prepare, low-fat, and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers. (31) With such an excellent rap sheet, it is no wonder it has been a staple in the South American diet since 3000 B.C.

As always, a diet rich in a variety of foods is healthiest, so quinoa should not be used as a total replacement for all grains and proteins. However, consumed along with a diet that includes unprocessed whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and other healthy grains and proteins, it is a healthy, smart choice.

Key Takeaway: Quinoa is an accessible and versatile food and is a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

12. ...and it's delicious.

Start incorporating this nutritious superfood into your everyday diet today. Remember to soak your quinoa before cooking. Soaking helps twofold: it removes the bitter flavor of the saponins and reduces the chance of digestive irritation sometimes attributed to this phytochemical. (32) It also helps the quinoa retain its essential nutrients.

Try These Recipes

Quinoa’s popularity ensures that there is no shortage of recipes to try. Here are a select few to get you started.

Breakfast:

Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Quinoa

Quinoa is a great alternative to oatmeal. Pack some extra protein into your morning for some long-lasting energy. Substitute soy, almond, or coconut milk to make this a well-rounded vegan breakfast.

Spiced Chai Breakfast Quinoa

For Chai tea latte-lovers, this meal combines the fragrance of cardamom, allspice, cloves, and ginger, the protein of quinoa, and the sweetness of brown sugar and coconut flakes.

Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Indulge in this sweet treat for a powerhouse breakfast, or enjoy it as a healthy and nutritious dessert alternative.

Side Dishes:

Quinoa Tabbouleh

Replace the traditional bulgar with quinoa in this recipe for a nutritious, gluten-free twist on this Mediterranean classic.

Quinoa Pilaf

Punch up your traditional pilaf with this quinoa version and serve on the side of a lean protein of your choosing for a max-protein meal.

Herbed Quinoa & Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Here's a vibrant green dish that combines the powerful protein of quinoa with the added protein of chickpeas.

Dinner:

Quinoa Vegetable Soup with Kale

Try this hearty soup recipe, and switch out with seasonal veggies to keep it tasty and budget-friendly any time of year.

Veggie Quinoa Burgers

Consider adding this meatless alternative to your repertoire. Quinoa, bread crumbs, fresh veggies, and cheese makes for a satisfying Meatless Monday idea.

There are so many ways to enjoy the health benefits of quinoa. Quinoa is an outstanding, scientifically-backed superfood that is easy to cook, readily available, and filling to boot. With recipe options from breakfast to dinner, cold to hot, and soups to stews, it has never been easier to ensure that your nutritional needs have been met.