Quinoa

Definition

Quinoa comes from the Chenopodium quinoa plant. The product of this plant, the quinoa itself, is often referred to as a pseudo grain, whereas in truth it is actually a fruit. This myth is similar to the popular conception that tomatoes are vegetables, while they are truly fruits.

Health considerations

Quinoa is a source of fiber and protein; quinoa contains all the essential amino acids, making it a “complete” protein. It is also a source of B vitamins excluding B12, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and manganese. Quinoa contains antioxidants and isoflavones, which have been shown to decrease blood pressure and help maintain bone density. See: Phytoestrogens.

May be found in

Cereals, power bars, salads, entrées, vegan and vegetarian dishes, pasta, quinoa flour, crackers, multigrain breads

References

Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture
Nutrition data

Alternative spellings and names

Chenopodium quinoa