The Superfoods They are not something new in society, in fact, in many countries they have been enjoying their properties for many years. In Spain, it has been relatively little time when we have known them. That is why many consider them a simple youth and / or vegetarian fashion and refuse to incorporate them into their habitual diets. What these people do not know is the amount of benefits and nutrients that they can provide us. When we think of them, chia, turmeric or other "new foods" come to mind. But in reality, many of the foods that we already have incorporated into the diet, such as blueberries or garlic, are already considered superfoods. One of those that is booming as it is a great source of energy and nutrients is the amaranth. Do you know him? Do you know what it is like and what it brings you?
What is amaranth?
This pseudocereals comes from the oldest seeds in America and is a ancestral food cultivated by the Incas, the Mayas and the Aztecs. The main component of this seed are the carbohydrates (59%), the vast majority of which are found in the form of starch. They are not accompanied by gluten as occurs in other cereals, in addition, as the glycemic index is low, it can also be taken by diabetics.
Its cultivation requires little water
Grow the plant amaranth It is a simple procedure, since the total amount of water required throughout its life cycle is only 60% compared to wheat or the barleyTherefore seed amaranth is an ideal crop for dry regions. It supports the scarcity and irregularity of rains and thanks to that it only needs moisture at the time of sowing.
Properties and benefits
Without a doubt, amaranth is one of the most rich and nutritious. It is currently one of the preferred products by athletes, because it is easy to transport and contains many proteins. But it is not only good for them, but also for those who wear a vegan diet and they look for high-quality plant-based proteins.
This great food is rich in minerals and in vitamin C, it also contains lysine (essential amino acid, that is, it needs to be ingested because our body cannot manufacture it by itself), which helps memory, intelligence and high learning. It is also low in fat and a healthy source of carbohydrates.
Another great benefit that can be obtained through this tasty food is that it is good for the stress. Also, some people, especially in Mexico, where he is from, they say that the amaranth is the food of joy since it generates tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is not produced naturally by the human body and is key to serotonin production, the hormone of happiness.
Finally, we must add that the cosmetics industry has already discovered its benefits for strengthen hair and its specific contributions to good skin health thanks to the amount of Vitamin E containing.
What recipes can you create with amaranth?
In the kitchen, the dishes that you can make are always fantastic, but if creativity is not your thing, here are some of the simpler recipes to make with this tasty and nutritious pseudocereal.
El amaranth can be used as you use the rice, that is, boiled and combined however you want, with salad, stews ... You can also use it to get popcorn directly over the fire of the pan, replacing the typical popcorn, so you will vary and take the popcorn in a healthy way. Also, you can create Cereal bars which, combined with a few ounces of chocolate, are a delicious delicacy.
Now that you know the multiple properties of this superfood and the recipes that you can create with it, you just have to try it and enjoy it. Although you already know that, in addition to this, there are many more superfoods that are highly recommended to incorporate into your diet such as lucuma, sesame or spelled. Do you usually take another one? Which? What dish would you prepare with amaranth?
