Quinoa and cholesterol regulation
As you probably already know, quinoa is a food with high biological value. Originating in the Andes, this ancient crop is the only vegetable that contains all essential amino acids. Precisely because of its high nutritional value and excellent balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, it is considered a superfood with numerous health benefits.
super food
With an average protein content of 16%, quinoa has more than twice the nutritional value of any grain, including wheat, barley and soy. Some varieties of this pseudo-cereal even have nearly 22% protein value. It is also considered an excellent source of essential fatty acids and fiber, and since it is gluten-free, it is suitable for all diets.
In fact, quinoa is listed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as one of the most promising crops for humanity due to its nutritional properties and multiple uses.
Food and cardiovascular health
So it’s no surprise that many scientific studies attribute many of the health benefits of quinoa to its consumption. Especially those related to cardiovascular health, which is a major cause of death in today’s globalized world.
Many of these diseases are caused by cholesterol: a naturally occurring waxy substance in the blood. Our bodies need it to build cells, make vitamins and other hormones, and other functions, but if its levels are too high, it can cause problems. As cholesterol levels increase, it slowly builds up in the lining of the arteries that supply blood to the heart and brain, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease, such as heart attacks and strokes.
To avoid this, it is recommended to follow a healthy lifestyle. In this sense, food is a powerful ally in preventing and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Quinoa and its health properties can play an important role.
Eating quinoa may lower cholesterol levels
Quinoa has a variety of beneficial effects, including preventing cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, and degenerative disease, improving the immune system, reducing postmenopausal-related symptoms, and promoting muscle mass gain.
Because it contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, quinoa helps lower LDL cholesterol (also called bad cholesterol because it accumulates in artery walls and blocks blood flow) levels while helping to increase HDL cholesterol in the body. (or good cholesterol), which provides protection against heart disease.
In fact, a study published in Food Science and Technology concluded that using quinoa in the diet may be considered beneficial in preventing and treating risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. Specifically, after consuming quinoa cereal bars daily for 30 days, more than 67% of participants experienced a reduction in total cholesterol, a 55% reduction in triglyceride levels, and 66% of cases showed a reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood sugar.
The power of bioactive compounds is key
This is all thanks to quinoa’s range of bioactive compounds, which influence the cellular and physiological activities of organisms and can have beneficial effects on health when ingested. They are: protein, fiber, minerals such as phosphorus, iron, potassium and magnesium, vitamin E and B vitamins, plant sterols, saponins, phenols, bioactive peptides and plant cell sterols. Due to their antioxidant capabilities, they are believed to promote proper blood circulation and keep blood sugar levels balanced.
