Is Quinoa Good for Weight Loss? Exploring The Superfood’s Potential
Hiral Patel
May 5, 2023
Weight Loss
Quinoa, the small yet mighty seed, has become the talk of the health and fitness world in recent years. Many people are touting it as a superfood for weight loss. As more and more people look for healthier options to incorporate into their diets, quinoa has become a staple for those seeking a nutrient-dense food that aids in weight loss. Quinoa’s versatility makes it easy to incorporate into various dishes. Moreover, it has become a popular option for vegans and vegetarians looking for an effective protein source.
Superfoods have become increasingly popular, with people turning to them to achieve optimal health and wellness. Quinoa is a superfood that has made a name for itself due to its many nutritional benefits. High in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, quinoa offers many health benefits, including weight loss. But is quinoa effective for weight loss, and how to incorporate it into your diet? The following sections of the article will explore the nutritional benefits of quinoa and its potential for weight loss.
Quinoa: An Overview
Quinoa is often considered a “pseudo-cereal” despite being a whole grain due to its small size. However, it possesses a nutritional profile that is comparable to other grains. Indigenous people in South America have cultivated quinoa for thousands of years. It is a versatile addition to any meal, whether vegan, gluten-free, or simply seeking a healthier option. Additionally, quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a boost of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals to any dish and elevating it to a deliciously healthy masterpiece.
Nutritional Properties of Cooked Quinoa
As per USDA, 100 grams of cooked quinoa hold the following nutritional values.
- Energy: 120kCal
- Protein: 4.4g
- Carbohydrates: 21.3g
- Fat: 1.92g
- Fibre: 2.8g
- Calcium: 17mg
- Iron: 1.49mg
- Magnesium: 64mg
- Phosphorus: 152mg
- Potassium: 172mg
Quinoa and Weight Loss: The Connection
Quinoa’s rich nutritional profile makes it an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet. Let’s explore the weight loss benefits of quinoa in detail.
High in Fibre
Studies show that Quinoa contains insoluble fibre, which slows down the digestion process. As a result, it helps keep you full for more extended periods. It leads to reduced food intake, which is beneficial for weight loss. Moreover, fibre-rich foods like quinoa improve digestion, improving nutrient absorption. Furthermore, it also encourages regular bowel movements.
Protein Powerhouse
Quinoa is a complete protein. It means that quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids the human body requires. Furthermore, it is a fantastic source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans. Harvard research shows that protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates. As a result, it increases satiety, reducing hunger and curbing food cravings. Moreover, protein boosts metabolism, increases calorie burn, and aids weight loss.
Microbiome Booster
Quinoa contains prebiotic fibre that feeds good bacteria in the gut, improving gut health and aiding weight loss. Recent studies suggest the vital role of gut bacteria in weight management. A healthy gut microbiome promotes healthy metabolism and reduces inflammation, making it easier to lose weight.
Low in Calories and Fat
Quinoa is low in calories and fat, making it an excellent option for weight loss. One serving of cooked quinoa (½ cup or 90 grams) contains only 111 calories and less than two grams of fat. It is also cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy option.
Versatile and Easy to Cook
Quinoa is quick and easy to prepare. In addition, one can use it in various dishes, making it a versatile ingredient. For example, it can be used as a substitute for rice, and one can add it to salads, soups, stews, and even baked goods. This versatility allows adding quinoa to various healthy meal options, making maintaining a balanced and varied diet easier.
Summary
Quinoa is an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet due to its high fibre and protein content, low calories and fat, versatility and ease of cooking. Its insoluble fibre slows digestion, keeps you full for longer, and reduces food intake, leading to weight loss. Quinoa is also a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. As a result, it increases satiety and curbing food cravings, thus aiding weight loss. Moreover, it contains prebiotic fibre that feeds good bacteria in the gut, improving gut health and helping weight loss. Finally, its versatility allows for inclusion in various healthy meal options, making it easier to maintain a balanced and varied diet.
How Much Quinoa is Healthy for Weight Loss?
The amount of quinoa a healthy individual should have can vary depending on age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. However, as a general guideline, per serving of cooked quinoa is about ½ cup or 90 grams. Therefore, including 1-2 servings of quinoa daily as part of a balanced meal plan can be a healthy choice for most individuals.
It is essential to remember that you must combine quinoa with other nutrient-dense foods as part of a varied and balanced diet. Additionally, like all good things, you should not overeat quinoa. You must adjust portion sizes according to individual needs and goals. Consulting a HealthifyMe nutritionist can help provide more personalised recommendations on incorporating quinoa and other foods into a healthy meal plan.
Summary
As a general guideline, a serving of cooked quinoa is about ½ cup or 90 grams, and including 1-2 servings of quinoa daily as part of a balanced meal plan can be a healthy choice for most individuals. However, the recommended amount for consumption may vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. Combining quinoa with other nutrient-dense foods is essential as part of a varied and balanced diet and avoiding overeating quinoa.
Other Health Advantages of Quinoa
Quinoa offers several health benefits beyond weight loss. For example, it can help regulate levels of triglycerides, LDL (bad cholesterol), and total cholesterol. As a result, it can reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, research shows that consuming foods high in fibre, like quinoa, can lower the risk of type-2 diabetes and help control blood sugar levels.
Research also shows that Quinoa is also a rich source of antioxidants, including quercetin and kaempferol, which can help reduce blood pressure and protect against dangerous free radicals in the body. Lastly, quinoa’s fibre content can help prevent constipation and other digestive issues, such as stomach bloating.
Tips to Use Quinoa for Weight Loss
- You can substitute quinoa for ordinary rice or pasta, or refined flour.
- You can use quinoa as a stuffing or filler for burger patties and sandwiches.
- Quinoa for breakfast is a fantastic way to start the day. In addition, Quinoa upma is an excellent breakfast choice for weight watchers.
- Salads undoubtedly enhance your nutrition, and including quinoa and your favourite fruits or vegetables makes it even better.
- You can also have quinoa soup with fresh vegetables.
Best Weight Loss Recipes with Quinoa
Quinoa Upma
Servings: 2-3
Total time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup
- Water: 2 cups
- Ginger: ½ tsp
- Mixed vegetables: ¾ cup (carrot, beans, peas)
- Onion: 1 (small, chopped)
- Green chilli: 1-2 chopped
- Salt: to taste
- Turmeric: ⅛ tsp
- Mustard seeds: 2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
Method:
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under running water.
- Keep it aside after draining the water.
- Heat some oil in a saucepan and add mustard seeds. When the seeds start to sputter, add chopped onions and green chillies.
- After frying for 2 minutes, add ginger and mixed veggies. Pour some water, add salt, and add the quinoa.
- Cook until quinoa turns tender and soaks all water. Add some turmeric and mix.
- Serve it with a lemon wedge or curd.
Chicken Quinoa Salad
Servings: 8
Total time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Onion: ½ cup
- Minced garlic: 5 tsp
- Quinoa: 2 cups (cooked)
- Chilli powder: 1 tsp
- Tomato: 2
- Capsicum: 3 (yellow, red, green)
- Cucumber: 4
- Boiled lean chicken: 3 cups (shredded)
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper: to taste
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
Method
- Prepare dressing with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, chilli powder, and lemon juice.
- Chop the capsicum, cucumber, onions, and tomato into cubes.
- Add quinoa, chopped veggies, and shredded chicken in a bowl, and toss in the salad dressing.
- Serve it.
Beet Quinoa Khichdi
Servings: 2
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup
- Moong daal: ¼ cup
- Grated beetroot: ½ cup
- Cumin seeds: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Chillies: 2
- Onion: 1 (chopped)
- Tomato: 1 (chopped)
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp
Method:
- Rinse the quinoa and drain the water.
- Heat oil in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds.
- After it sizzles, add moong dal and allow it to get golden brown. Mix in the chiles and fry for a minute. Add the chopped tomato, onion, and beetroot and saute it well.
- Add quinoa, salt and pepper.
- Add the necessary water; then, pressure-cook for three whistles.
- Once the pressure releases naturally, fluff up with a fork and serve hot.
Risks of Overconsumption
Quinoa can cause stomach pain, diarrhoea, bloating, and severe discomfort when consumed excessively. It occurs due to the fibre content of quinoa. Additionally, quinoa includes a naturally occurring chemical called saponins, present in the grains and the coating. If quinoa is not rinsed or washed well before cooking or consumption, it can lead to digestive problems. Moreover, excessive quinoa consumption may result in rashes, itchy skin, and other typical food allergy symptoms due to the substance saponin.
HealthifyMe Suggestion
Try a different way of consuming quinoa for weight loss by making “quinoa granola”. This recipe is a unique and tasty way to include quinoa in your breakfast or snack routine while benefiting from its weight-loss properties. The ingredients include uncooked quinoa, rolled oats, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, dried fruit, raw honey (optional), coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything and spread it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 300°F (150°C), stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown. Add dried fruit and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy it as a healthy breakfast cereal or snack on the go. This quinoa granola is low in calories, high in fibre, and rich in protein, making it an excellent option for weight loss.
The Final Word
Quinoa can be a nutritious addition to a weight loss diet due to its high protein and fibre content. It is also a versatile food that can be substituted for rice or pasta in many dishes. However, it is crucial to consume quinoa in moderation, as excessive consumption may result in side effects. Along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, incorporating quinoa into your meal plan can help with weight loss goals. However, before making any significant dietary changes, it is recommended to consult a health expert to ensure it is suitable for your individual needs.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information, please contact our certified nutritionists Here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Is quinoa a good option for weight loss?
A. Certainly, quinoa is advantageous for weight loss because it contains high levels of dietary fibre and protein, which boost metabolism. When attempting to lose weight, eating meals high in fibre is crucial. Each cup of cooked quinoa has five grams of dietary fibre.
Q. What are the nutritional benefits of quinoa?
A. Quinoa has several health benefits. It improves digestion and aids in weight loss. In addition, it prevents the risk of cancer, regulates blood glucose levels, prevents bone diseases, protects against cardiovascular diseases, and reduces the chances of developing gallstones and kidney stones.
Q. Is quinoa high in calories?
A. According to USDA, 100 grams of cooked quinoa contains 120 kcal. Therefore, its calories are not high and can fit into any weight-loss meal plan. Moreover, when it is part of an overall well-balanced and diverse diet, high-fibre foods like quinoa can aid in weight loss.
Q. How does quinoa help with weight loss?
A. Yes. Fibre is abundant in quinoa. Insoluble fibre prolongs your feeling of fullness, which aids in weight loss. In addition, dietary fibre boosts metabolism and reduces hunger, which helps people consume fewer calories.
Q. Can quinoa be part of a low-carb diet for weight loss?
A. If you want to include quinoa in your low-carb diet, do it in moderation. Prepare it and track the other carbohydrates in your meal. If you eat it, consider it a salad ingredient rather than a main course. Only restricted amounts of quinoa are appropriate for low-carb diets.
Q. How much quinoa should I eat for weight loss?
A. You can have 40-50 grams of quinoa if you watch your weight. However, one to two cups of cooked quinoa is the maximum daily recommended intake.
Q. Are there any downsides to eating quinoa for weight loss?
A. People may have stomach aches, itchy skin, rashes, and other typical food allergy symptoms after consuming quinoa. These symptoms can be due to the saponin component found in the seed and its covering. However, consuming too much quinoa can cause bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. It is because your body cannot manage its high amount of fibre.
Q. Can quinoa be a replacement for rice or pasta for weight loss?
A. White rice or pasta lacks the protein and amino acids in quinoa. Quinoa is, therefore, a preferable choice for those attempting to lose weight. In addition, quinoa has more fibre per serving than rice, making it a healthier alternative. Finally, quinoa is a better option because it provides additional nourishment and quickly and effectively fills your stomach.
Q. Are there any recipes using quinoa for weight loss?
A. There are several recipes and ways to add quinoa to your weight loss journey. For example, quinoa upma, quinoa and chicken salad, brussels sprout and quinoa salad, quinoa banana pancakes, quinoa khichdi, quinoa soup, curd quinoa, etc.
Q. Can I eat quinoa every day for weight loss?
A. Yes, you can consume quinoa daily. The insoluble fibre found in quinoa helps people feel fuller for longer and curbs their appetite. Quinoa’s high protein and beneficial fat content speed up metabolism and maintain energy levels. However, consume it in moderation.
Research Sources
1. The U S Department of Agriculture
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168917/nutrients
2. P NPV, Joye IJ. Dietary Fibre from Whole Grains and Their Benefits on Metabolic Health. Nutrients. 2020 Oct 5;12(10):3045. doi: 10.3390/nu12103045. PMID: 33027944; PMCID: PMC7599874.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7599874/
3. Harvard Health Publishing
4. Aoun A, Darwish F, Hamod N. The Influence of the Gut Microbiome on Obesity in Adults and the Role of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics for Weight Loss. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2020 Jun 30;25(2):113-123. DoI: 10.3746/pnf.2020.25.2.113. PMID: 32676461; PMCID: PMC7333005.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7333005/
5. Li L, Lietz G, Bal W, Watson A, Morfey B, Seal C. Effects of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Consumption on Markers of CVD Risk. Nutrients. 2018 Jun 16;10(6):777. DoI: 10.3390/nu10060777. PMID: 29914146; PMCID: PMC6024323.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6024323/
6. Park JH, Lee YJ, Kim YH, Yoon KS. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Seeds Cultivated in Korea. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2017 Sep;22(3):195-202. DoI: 10.3746/pnf.2017.22.3.195. Epub 2017 Sep 30. PMID: 29043217; PMCID: PMC5642801.
