Considered as a Superfood, the kiwicha or amaranth by its scientific name Amaranthus Caudatus, is a leafy plant that can reach up to three meters in height and contains a very high nutritional value, because it provides large amounts of protein and energy for the human body.
Kiwicha, considered by the National Academy of Sciences of the United States as “the best food of vegetable origin for human consumption”, is present in countries such as Ecuador, Mexico, Guatemala and Peru, exporting the latter, during 2016, an approximate of US$ 2 million (49% more than the previous year in FOB value) to markets such as Japan.
According to the website quinoa.pe, the grain of kiwicha contains calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, zinc, vitamin E and the complete group of vitamin B. Its fiber, compared with wheat and other cereals, is very fine and smooth, so to include it in our daily diet can bring great benefits for our health. Here are five powerful reasons why kiwicha should be part of your diet.
It is a complete source of protein
As we already mentioned, the protein potential of kiwicha compared to other cereals is much higher. Kiwicha is made of 13 to 19% protein, which means more protein by weight than rice, sorghum or rye. It also contains eight complete essential aminoacids.
It contains many minerals
This is perhaps one of the most relevant characteristics of kiwicha: its high concentration of minerals. A cup of cooked kiwicha provides 29% of the recommended daily amount of iron, 40% of magnesium CDR, in addition to considerable amounts of calcium, potassium, zinc, copper and selenium.
Totally gluten free
Kiwicha, like quinoa, is naturally free of gluten, a glycoprotein present in most cereals that attaches to the intestinal walls producing a bowel prone contracting pathogenic microorganisms, toxic substances and undigested food.
Rich in dietary fiber
Kiwicha contains two types of fiber: insoluble and soluble, the former having a laxative effect in the human body because it passes intact through the gastrointestinal tract; while the second, attracts liquids, slows digestion and is known to reduce cholesterol.
Cardiovascular benefits
Some research suggests that kiwicha can benefit the cardiovascular system. According to an article published by Natural News, the study Proteome Science (2014) indicates that this product could treat atherosclerosis or the narrowing of the arteries.
May 18, 2017
By: Roxana Cobos, Chief of Communications AGAP
