Cultivated by the Aztecs and in other tropical climates, Amaranth is now experiencing a revival in popularity as a gluten-free protein. Popularly known for its uses, it is rich in antioxidants, micro-nutrients, fiber, and protein. Even though Amaranth has achieved popularity recently as healthy food, this super ancient grain was a vital part of the diet for various people around the world.
What is Amaranth?
Amaranth is native to Mexico and Central America and was once considered a staple food for the people living in the ancient Aztec, Maya, and Inca civilizations. It delivers a nutty and earthy taste that pairs deliciously with a wide range of dishes. It is a highly nutritional pseudocereal that has a superior protein content compared to other cereals. Amaranth is a well-balanced food that has diverse functional properties like high nutritional value and aiding in proper digestion. The grain offers an impressive and vast nutrient profile, and it is associated with multiple health benefits.
Benefits of Amaranth
1. Naturally Gluten-Free
People with celiac disease cannot eat gluten because the body produces an immune response that generates inflammation and damage to the digestive tract. But Amaranth isn’t really a grain, and it does not have the sometimes-troublesome proteins that people find in wheat, rye, and barley. Thus, is a gluten-free grain, that contains many essential nutrients in it.
2. High in antioxidants
Rich in antioxidants, it helps in protecting the body against these free radicals. Also, helps in protecting against many degenerative diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
3. May help reduce cholesterol levels
Amaranth may be beneficial for some cholesterol-reducing properties. Some studies show that amaranth and its oil have the potential to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol greatly without lowering “good” HDL cholesterol.
4. May help aid weight loss
Rich in fiber and protein, Amaranth may help in weight loss. The fiber present in Amaranth moves slowly and undigested inside the gastrointestinal tract, which may help in promoting the feeling of fullness.
5. May reduce inflammation in the body
Amaranth is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the human body. A study has shown that Amaranth may have helped in inhibiting immunoglobulin E production, an antibody that causes allergic inflammation.
6. May help with hair loss and greying
Eating amaranth may help individuals with hair loss. One can also juice the leaves and apply them after shampooing. This may help moisturize and flatten grey hair.
7. May help with digestion
Insufficient fiber consumption could lead to constipation, bloating, and even increased fat storage. Amaranth is a high-fiber food that makes it filling and may help aid digestive health, and slows the absorption of sugars to let the body keep up with energy production.
8. Contains minerals for overall health
Amaranth is known to have a very rich source of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and copper and has a good source of zinc, potassium, and phosphorus. It may help to build strong bones and muscles, aid hydration, and boost energy.
9. High source of calcium
Amaranth is known to have twice the calcium as milk, which may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other calcium deficiencies.
10. Has potent lysine properties
Amaranth has a good amount of lysine, which may help the body absorb calcium, build muscle, and produce energy.
Considering the health benefits amaranth has, it is highly beneficial for the health and has a wide range of nutrients in it. It is a real storehouse of minerals, vitamins, and trace elements. Also, the plant is easy to process and does not lose its beneficial properties during the transformation process. With the increasing demand for this grain, we at Arjuna Natural fulfilling the demand for standard ingredients by supplying quality Amaranth extract.
