Superfood & Antioxidant for the Skin

Quinoa (pronounced as “KEEN-wah”) is gaining popularity in recent years even though this grain has been in existence more than 3,000 years ago. So why is it becoming a limelight in health stores, food magazines & recipe websites?

Why is it a Superfood?

According to Medical News Today, quinoa has many health benefits. Quinoa provides a higher amount of antioxidants than other common grains like white rice and potato. It is one of the few carbohydrate sources that is also high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. This seed (or more commonly referred to as a grain) is also high in minerals like magnesium, folate and iron.  In addition to the various beneficial anti-oxidant content, it also contains Vitamin B-6 & Vitamin E. Another important benefit of quinoa is that it is high in fiber.

Why is Quinoa an eczema-friendly food?

Quinoa is gluten-free and for children with eczema who are sensitive to gluten, bread and wheat, this grain is a desirable alternative because it’s easy to eat and digest for children and adults alike. This nutrient-rich food contains 2 antioxidants : quercetin and kaempferol, which helps to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Quercetin is a flavonoid (plant antioxidant) that has anti-inflammatory effect and it reduces blood histamine levels, which helps calm the itching and flare-up if you have itchy skin and rash. The fundamental of eczema diet is that it is alkaline based, to eliminate food that causes skin inflammation and itchiness. Quinoa is an alkaline-based food, which helps to balance the pH level of the fluids in your body. Small amounts of the anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), are also provided by quinoa. Omega-3 helps to improve skin condition and reduces inflammation.

 

Is it Easy to Cook Quinoa?

Quinoa cooks exactly like rice and tastes like rice. You’re simply upgrading to a BETTER “rice”.  You can either cook quinoa over a pot on the stove or even using a rice cooker. In fact, you could even progressively add quinoa into your daily meals by incorporating a small portion together when you cook your white rice. Quinoa is also versatile and can be added into your diet in a variety of ways. You can mix in your salad, stew, burger patties, cereal and the list goes on. If you have already been eating quinoa on a regular basis, and want to explore more dishes, here’s list of delicious and healthy recipes :

How to Choose Superior Quality Quinoa?

For a superfood that is packed with nutrient and goodness, quinoa is relatively inexpensive. However, you will need to choose fresh and chemical-free quinoa which has been stored well. The most common type of quinoa you will find in the store has an off-white color but red and black quinoa are becoming more available. Superlife Co. is a homegrown brand that specializes in quinoa. Superlife Co’s Quinoa are natural, organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, free from preservatives, chemicals and additives.  Their online shop carries 2 main variety : Plain quinoa packs & Ready-pack easy cook sachets :

Plain quinoa sacks (500g or 5kg) – white, red or mixed quinoa grains

Ready-pack easy cook sachets which has natural flavors included – eg. mushroom, &  Japanese quinoa.

  Exclusive for Skinshare Singapore readers, SAVE 5% when you purchase Superlife Co’s online shop using coupon codeSUPERSKINSHARE”. They deliver to your home, with free shipping above a certain order amount.

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