Start your healthy lifestyle with Amaranthus - A healthier millet!

With the rise of gluten-free diets on the surge, finding appropriate alternatives to traditional grains is becoming more and more popular. And we're here to advise you that straying from quinoa or brown rice is acceptable. In fact, numerous grains and seeds with roots in ancient civilizations are gaining steam on modern menus, including millet and Amaranthus (to be more precise).

Although Amaranthus is a seed, it is an easily accessible (and reasonably priced) meal enhancer that is solely an excellent source of protein, nutrition, and delectable flavour. Here's a closer look at the reasons why you might want to buy plenty of this staple seed. 

What is Amaranthus?

Amaranthus (often referred to as an ancient grain) was first domesticated about 8,000 years ago in Mesoamerica as a seed. The historic Aztecs grew it in huge quantities as a staple crop (much like maize) and called it Huautli, which means 'the smallest giver of life.' Since then, it can survive drought and grown well in less-than-ideal circumstances.

Amaranthus is a pseudocereal, which means that it isn't only strictly cereal grain like oats or wheat. In fact, it does share a number of similar nutrients and functions. Its earthy, nutty flavour complements a wide range of foods when prepared. 

In addition to being very adaptable, this healthy grain is naturally gluten-free and abundant in protein, fibre, minerals, and antioxidants. In a nutshell, this millet variant is a versatile millet variation tastes delicious in both sweet and savoury meals.

Nutritional value of Amaranthus

Amaranthus is an ancient seed and is suitable for people with gluten sensitivity. It provides roughly 7g of protein per 1/4 cup dose and is also a supplier of high-quality protein. So, it further indicates that it has lysine as well as the other essential amino acids, calcium, iron, dietary fibre, vitamin C and more. 

Amaranthus v/s Quinoa

Although Amaranthus and Quinoa vouch for a healthy diet plan, both have distinct nutritional values and benefits to the human body. Both quinoa and Amaranthus are highly beneficial gluten-free seeds. 

Amaranthus has 9g of protein, particularly in comparison to quinoa's 8g, which is a slight increase in protein content. Both components take less time to get cooked, which is quite helpful in the kitchen. Amaranthus can take upwards of 20 minutes to cook fully compared to quinoa's approximate 15-minute cooking time.

But the flavour is where the differences are more noticeable. Amaranthus has a more prominent nuttiness and herbal note that some claim is reminiscent of hay. However, quinoa is milder in flavour (and readily combines with literally any ingredient).

Health benefits of Amaranthus

• Highly Nutritious

This ancient grain contains significant content of protein, fibre, and other crucial micronutrients. Amaranthus is a really brilliant supplier of iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. Additionally, one serving of Amaranthus has more manganese than your body requires daily. Manganese is known to defend against several neurological diseases and is particularly vital for brain function.

It is also a good source of magnesium, a necessary nutrient essential for nearly 300 bodily processes, including the creation of DNA and muscle contraction.

What else? 

Phosphorus, an essential mineral vital for healthy bones, is plentiful in Amaranthus. It also contains a lot of iron, which aids in blood production in your body.

• Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is the natural defence of the body's immunity system against infection and damage. Chronic inflammation, however, has been linked to diseases like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders and can cause chronic disease. 

There is evidence from numerous research that Amaranthus may reduce inflammation in the body. In fact, it has been shown to lower many markers of inflammation in a test-tube investigation. And similar to this, a study on animals revealed that Amaranthus assisted in reducing the development of immunoglobulin E, an antibody type associated with allergic irritation. 

• Rich in Antioxidants

The body's defences against dangerous free radicals are bolstered by antioxidants that are naturally occurring substances. Free radicals can harm cells and have a role in the emergence of chronic diseases. In such a case, antioxidants become helpful for your health that is present in Amaranthus.

 

According to research, Amaranthus is pretty high in phenolic acids, which are plant substances that function as antioxidants. These include vanillic acid, gallic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid, which all have the potential to offer protection against conditions including cancer and heart disease.

• Lower Cholesterol Levels

A molecule like fat called cholesterol is widespread throughout the human body. The blood can become clogged with too much cholesterol and could restrict the arteries. Interestingly, some animal studies proved that Amaranthus decreases cholesterol levels significantly. Additionally, Amaranthus oil can increase HDL cholesterol while lowering bad LDL cholesterol.

• Aid Weight Loss

Amaranthus might be a great addition to your diet if you're trying to lose a few extra pounds. Amaranthus contains a lot of protein and fibre, which can help you lose weight. Consumption of a relatively high-protein breakfast lowers ghrelin levels, the hormone that promotes appetite.

Besides that, the fibre in Amaranthus may travel through the system slowly and undigested, aiding in the promotion of feelings of fullness. However, combine Amaranthus with a wholesome, nutritious diet and an active lifestyle to boost weight loss.

• Naturally Gluten-Free

Grains like wheat, barley, spelt, and rye contain a kind of protein called gluten. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, the immune system reacts by damaging and inflaming the digestive tract. People with sensitivity to gluten may also have uncomfortable side effects like diarrhoea, bloating, and gas due to gluten consumption. 

Even though many of the most popular grains contain gluten, Amaranthus is a natural seed type with no trace of gluten and is suitable for people following a gluten-free diet. In addition to that, Sorghum, quinoa, millet, oats, buckwheat, and brown rice are healthy grains that are inherently gluten-free.

The Bottom Line

Amaranthus is a wholesome grain that is naturally gluten-free and high in fibre, protein, and minerals. Additionally, it provides a range of health advantages, such as less inflammation, lower cholesterol, and enhanced weight loss.

The best part is that this grain is simple to cook and versatile, making it a great addition to your diet. To begin living a healthy lifestyle, you can try Amaranthus millet products such as millet noodles, millet snacks, millet pasta, millet Rawa, etc.