Amaranth which is also known as chaulai, rajgira or ramdana in India is an ancient grain which has gained huge popularity off late. Amaranth as a grain has a very impressive nutrient profile and has been associated with a number of health benefits. Here in India it is mostly consumed during Navratri fasting because Amaranth is actually not considered as a grain. Amaranth instead is classified as a pseudo cereal which means it shares a comparable set of nutrients and can be used in similar ways as a cereal. Besides being incredibly versatile, this nutritious grain is naturally gluten free and rich in protein, fiber, micronutrients and antioxidants
Some basics about Amaranth
- Amaranth is higher in protein and fiber as compared to quinoa
- It is an ancient grain which is highly nutritious
- Technically, amaranth is a seed and not a grain
- It is known as Amaranth, Chaulai, Ramdana or Rajgira
- Being a seed, it is highly consumed during the Navratra fasting
- Amaranth is an excellent source of complete protein
- Amaranth is used in a number of ways, it’s leaves are consumed, the grains (seeds) are used, flour is used and even puffed amaranth is readily used
Nutritional Value (1/2 cup cooked amaranth)
- Calories : 125
- Carbs : 22 grams
- Protein : 05 grams
- Fat : 2.5 grams
- Amaranth is very high in manganese, magnesium, copper, calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, phosphorous and potassium
- It is also a vital source of vitamin K, all B group vitamins, vitamin E and vitamin C
Benefits of amaranth
- Amaranth is easy to digest and is gluten free
- It is very good for the brain health
- Amaranth helps reduce stress and anxiety
- It also helps maintain good mood and good neurological health
- Amaranth helps develop strong bones because of calcium, potassium and phosphorus present in it
- Amaranth is very high in antioxidants
- It is an excellent source of protein and is high in lysine which helps in calcium absorption and has more protein than quinoa
- Amaranth is thus a source of complete protein, it also has a very high concentration of amino acid
- It helps inflammation
- Amaranth is very good for your heart and eyes
- It lowers and maintains the sugar levels in your body
- Amaranth boosts immunity as it has high concentration of zinc
- Amaranth also helps improve digestion as it is high in fiber and has laxative properties
- It helps to fight anemia because of the high iron concentration in it
Beneficial for women
- Amaranth is very good for women as it balances hormones in the body
- It is good during and post pregnancy because of the high concentration of good nutrients in it
- It is good for skin and hair because of Vitamins K and E present in it
- It also supports weight loss as it has high concentration of nutrients, is very high in protein, high in fiber and low in calories
How to cook Amaranth ?
- Amaranth leaves can be used to make saag, salads etc
- Amaranth seeds are used to make porridge, salad etc
- Popped amaranth is used to make bars, smoothies, instant breakfast and salads
- Amaranth flour is used for making multigrain rotis, pancakes and cakes
Very informative and helpful