Good to know facts of some Alternative grains

Alternative grains are like other grains only which are very familiar with us like wheat, rice, and millets. The only thing with the alternative grain is that we are not so familiar and using these grains on a high priority but these grains are a source of loads of nutrients that can boost our health when added with our existing food plan.

Oats   

We all are very much familiar with this grain because it poses loads of nutrients but the main and important nutrient is β glucan.

• β glucan is a soluble fiber that slows down food transit in the intestines as a result it takes longer time for the body to digest food
• Slower digestion means the body doesn’t absorb sugar as quickly, reducing the likelihood of blood sugar spikes and helping keep blood sugar levels stable
• Beta-glucan also stimulates lethal white blood cells (lymphocytes) that bind to tumors or viruses, and release chemicals to destroy it

Buckwheat   

 

• It contains all 9 essential amino acids which makes it a complete protein
• It is a gluten-free grain due to which it becomes an excellent option for celiacs, who are having gluten allergies, or anyone who is trying to avoid gluten
• Having a low glycemic index thus preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar which causes inflammation, mood swings, and weight gain
• Good source of rutin, a natural flavonoid that helps to extend the activity of vitamin C and other antioxidant nutrients
• Good source of tryptophan, ensure a sound night’s sleep by stimulating the production of the feel-good hormone serotonin
• Helps to reduce radiative stress caused due to higher use of cell phones and excess time spent on computers and also higher expose of microwave

Quinoa   

• Gluten-free grain
• Contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a good source of quality protein
• Good sources of flavonoid like quercetin and kaempferol which are potent plant antioxidants with numerous health benefits
• Excellent source of free phenols, which destroy free radicals in the bloodstream
• Help to slow down the aging process, decrease the risk of cancer and delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to the presence of free phenols

Amaranth   

• Gluten-free grain 
• Contains all 9 essential amino acids, especially high in Lysine content which helps the body absorb calcium, build muscle, and produce energy
• Good source of rutin, a natural flavonoid that helps to extend the activity of vitamin C and other antioxidant nutrients
• Rutin has been directly connected to eliminating varicose veins by strengthening capillary walls
• Good source of carotenoids which can prevent macular degeneration and slow down the development of cataracts
• Contains a higher concentration of calcium which makes amaranth a veritable superfood in terms of boosting bone strength and preventing osteoporosis
• Good source of peptides which helps in reduction of can inflammation in the body and even prevent the activity of free radicals that can cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous cells
• It contains all three major phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol) which prevent the absorption of regular dietary cholesterol, which are not easily absorbed, thus leads to a total lower cholesterol level.

*Do include in your meal to boost your health