Although amaranth has only recently gained popularity as a health food, this ancient grain has been a dietary staple in certain parts of the world for millennia.
Amaranth has an impressive nutrient profile and has been associated with several impressive health benefits.
What is amaranth?
Amaranth is a group of more than 60 different species of grains that have been cultivated for about 8,000 years.
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Explore new cuisinesThese grains were once considered a staple food in the Inca, Maya, and Aztec civilizations.
Amaranth is classified as a pseudocereal, meaning that it’s not technically a cereal grain like wheat or oats, but it shares a comparable set of nutrients and is used in similar ways. Its earthy, nutty flavor works well in a variety of dishes.
Besides being incredibly versatile, this nutritious grain is naturally gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, micronutrients, and antioxidants.
Summary: Amaranth is a versatile and nutritious group of grains that have been cultivated for thousands of years.
1. Amaranth is highly nutritious
This ancient grain is rich in fiber and protein, as well as many important micronutrients.
In particular, amaranth is a good source of manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron.
One cup (246 grams) of cooked amaranth contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 251
- Protein: 9.3 grams
- Carbs: 46 grams
- Fat: 5.2 grams
- Manganese: 105% of your daily need
- Magnesium: 40% of your daily need
- Phosphorus: 36% of your daily need
- Iron: 29% of your daily need
- Selenium: 19% of your daily need
- Copper: 18% of your daily need
Amaranth is packed with manganese, exceeding your daily nutrient needs in just one serving. Manganese is especially important for brain function and is believed to protect against certain neurological conditions.
It’s also rich in magnesium, an essential nutrient involved in nearly 300 reactions in the body, including DNA synthesis and muscle contraction.
What’s more, amaranth is high in phosphorus, a mineral that is important for bone health. It’s also rich in iron, which helps your body produce blood.
Summary: Amaranth is a good source of fiber, protein, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron, along with several other important micronutrients.
2. Amaranth contains antioxidants
Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that help protect against harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
Amaranth is a good source of health-promoting antioxidants.
One review reported that amaranth is especially high in phenolic acids, which are plant compounds that act as antioxidants. These include gallic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillic acid, all of which may help protect against diseases like heart disease and cancer.
In one rat study, amaranth was found to increase the activity of certain antioxidants and help protect the liver against alcohol.
The antioxidant content is highest in raw amaranth, and studies have found that soaking and processing it may decrease its antioxidant activity.
Further studies are needed to determine how the antioxidants in amaranth may impact humans.
Summary: Amaranth is high in several antioxidants, such as gallic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillic acid, which may help protect against disease.
3. Eating amaranth could reduce inflammation
Inflammation is a normal immune response designed to protect the body against injury and infection.
However, chronic inflammation can contribute to chronic disease and has been associated with conditions like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
Several studies have found that amaranth could have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
In one test-tube study, amaranth was found to reduce several markers of inflammation.
Similarly, an animal study showed that amaranth helped inhibit the production of immunoglobulin E, a type of antibody involved in allergic inflammation.
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However, more research is needed to measure the potential anti-inflammatory effects of amaranth in humans.
Summary: Animal and test-tube studies show that amaranth may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
4. Amaranth may lower cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found throughout the body. Too much cholesterol can build up in the blood and cause arteries to narrow.
Interestingly, some animal studies have found that amaranth may have cholesterol-lowering properties.
One study in hamsters showed that amaranth oil decreased total and “bad” LDL cholesterol by 15% and 22%, respectively. Furthermore, amaranth grain reduced “bad” LDL cholesterol while increasing “good” HDL cholesterol.
Additionally, a study in chickens reported that a diet containing amaranth decreased total cholesterol by up to 30% and “bad” LDL cholesterol by up to 70%.
Despite these promising results, additional research is needed to understand how amaranth may affect cholesterol levels in humans.
Summary: Some animal studies show that amaranth may help reduce levels of total and “bad” LDL cholesterol.
5. Amaranth could aid weight loss
If you want to lose weight, you may want to consider adding amaranth to your diet.
Amaranth is high in protein and fiber, both of which can aid your weight loss efforts.
In one small study, a high-protein breakfast was found to decrease levels of ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger.
Another study in 19 people showed that a high-protein diet was associated with a reduction in appetite and calorie intake.
Meanwhile, the fiber in amaranth may move slowly through the gastrointestinal tract undigested, helping promote feelings of fullness.
One study followed 252 women for 20 months and found that increased fiber intake was associated with a lower risk of gaining weight and body fat.
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Still, further research is needed to look at the effects of amaranth on weight loss.
To maximize weight loss, be sure to pair amaranth with an overall healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Summary: Amaranth is high in protein and fiber, both of which may help reduce appetite and increase weight loss.
6. Amaranth is naturally gluten-free
Gluten is a type of protein that is found in grains such as wheat, barley, spelt, and rye.
For those with celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response in the body, causing damage and inflammation in the digestive tract.
Those with gluten sensitivity may also experience negative symptoms, including diarrhea, bloating, and gas.
While many of the most commonly consumed grains contain gluten, amaranth is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by those on a gluten-free diet.
Other naturally gluten-free grains include sorghum, quinoa, millet, oats, buckwheat, and brown rice.
Summary: Amaranth is a nutritious, gluten-free grain that is a suitable dietary addition for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
How to include amaranth in your diet
Amaranth is simple to prepare and can be used in many different dishes.
Before cooking amaranth, you can sprout it by soaking it in water and then allowing the grains to germinate for one to three days.
Sprouting makes grains easier to digest and breaks down antinutrients, which can impair mineral absorption.
To cook amaranth, combine water with amaranth in a 3:1 ratio. Heat it until it reaches a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the water is absorbed.
Here are a few easy ways to enjoy this nutritious grain:
- Add amaranth to smoothies to boost the fiber and protein content.
- Use it in dishes in place of pasta, rice, or couscous.
- Mix it into soups or stews to add thickness.
- Make it into a breakfast cereal by stirring in fruit, nuts, or cinnamon.
Summary: Amaranth can be sprouted to enhance digestion and mineral absorption. Cooked amaranth can be used in many different dishes.
Summary
Amaranth is a nutritious, gluten-free grain that provides plenty of fiber, protein, and micronutrients.
It has also been associated with many health benefits, including reduced inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and increased weight loss.
Best of all, this grain is easy to prepare and can be added to a variety of dishes, making it an excellent addition to your diet.
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