11 Amazing Health Benefits of Amaranth

Amaranth plant health benefits includes lowering high cholesterol level, supporting digestive system, strengthening bones, a good source of protein, works as an antioxidant agent, support eyesight, support weight loss, prevent birth defects, prevent baldness, treat varicose veins and a good gluten free food option.

Incorporating nutritious foods like amaranth can prevent you from the risks associated with debilitating health problems such as low blood pressure, inflammation, fatigue, etc. Regular consumption of amaranth is said to alleviate symptoms that contribute to chronic diseases like cancer, macular degeneration, and dementia. Nutritionists encourage people to add nourishing food options into their diet to increase lifespan.

What is Amaranth?

The edible amaranth seeds are obtained from amaranth plant that is categorized as Amaranthus genus, scientifically.

The plant belongs to Mexico and various parts of US. The amaranth seeds have been part of their traditional cuisines for centuries due to grain’s nourishing nature.

Apart from seeds, you can consume leafy amaranth vegetable, cereal, and grain flour – each variety is a powerhouse of protein, minerals, and vitamins.

Nutritional Value of Amaranth

• Calcium 116 mg
• Copper              4 mg
• Dietary Fiber 2 g
• Folate 1 mcg
• Iron 2 mg
• Magnesium 160 mg
• Manganese 1 mg
• Niacin 6 mg
• Phosphorus 364 mg
• Potassium 332 mg
• Protein 9 g
• Riboflavin 1 mg
• Selenium 5 mcg
• Sodium 8 mg
• Vitamin B6 3 mg
• Vitamin E 5 mg
• Zinc 1 mg

11 Amazing Health Benefits of Amaranth

1. Lowers High Cholesterol Levels

Incorporating amaranth seeds can be useful in case of high cholesterol. Nutritionists recommend consuming amaranth cereal to combat factors that contribute to increasing your bad cholesterol content. This condition could also hurt your cardiovascular health.

Thus, regular consumption of amaranth allows you to obtain plenty of fiber and other nutrients like potassium and zinc. These nutritious properties function to balance your high cholesterol levels boosting your heart health.

2. For Digestive System

You can keep your digestive health on track by consuming fiber on a daily basis. Enriched with dietary fiber and minerals, amaranth grains can provide gastrointestinal benefits. Moreover, it has potential to treat gut problems by promoting the growth of good bacteria.

Nutritionists also encourage incorporating foods with high content of fiber to steer clear of indigestion issues. Therefore, having a bowl of freshly prepared amaranth cereal could become a healthy breakfast idea.

3. Strengthen Bones

It wouldn’t be wrong to categorize amaranth as a versatile food option as not only its seeds, but the leaves of the plant contain an adequate amount of calcium. The latter is an essential mineral to consume regularly to maintain bone density. Many studies have proved that diet enriched with calcium in young age can delay age-related debilitating bones issues.

Moreover, consuming amaranth is essential to boost the strength of your bones preventing osteoporosis. However, in case of demineralization of the bones, it is suggested to consult with your physician to avoid risks of daunting bone diseases.

4. A source of Protein

Your body needs plenty of protein as it helps perform various functions. Studies have proved amaranth as a powerhouse of protein. Incorporating the seeds into your daily diet is said to facilitate the growth, and rejuvenate tissues and cells present in your overall body.

When you consume a required quantity of protein, your body will stay active and energized. It is said to boost your metabolic rate too. Therefore, consuming an organic variety of amaranth could become a safe and natural source to reap plenty of protein.

5. Works as an Antioxidant Agent

A recent study has revealed that foods loaded with antioxidants are necessary to be incorporated into your diet as they ward off health-damaging external and internal factors. Amaranth grains can work well in this context due to the high content of antioxidants found in it. The latter is potent enough to fight toxins, infectious bacteria, and free radicals. They contribute to oxidative stress in the body organs, cause inflammation, and facilitate the development of cancerous cells.

6. For Eyesight

Your eyes fall prey to various eye diseases if you refrain from consuming nutrients that promote eye health. Amaranth is said to be a useful option in this regard. It cannot only improve your weak eyesight but can delay the onset of cataracts and macular degeneration. However, in case of an eye problem, consult with your optometrist to avoid further issues.

7. Amaranth for Weight Loss

Dietary fiber is known to keep you full for longer hours by curbing your increased appetite. That is essential for obese. Thus, incorporate amaranth grain into your diet and let it do the job for you.

8. Prevents Birth Defects

Expectant mothers are advised to consume plenty of vitamin, minerals, and proteins regarding the healthy development of the fetus.

Amaranth grains could become a nourishing option in this context as it is enriched with various nutrients. Regular consumption of the seeds is said to prevent the fetus from congenital diseases as well.

9. It Prevent Baldness

Baldness is mainly occurred due to imbalanced diet and deficiency of vitamins and minerals. Nutritionists suggest that zinc found in the amaranth grain can treat male baldness. The mineral is known to strengthen hair follicles that will ultimately result in the full head of hair.

10. It Treats Varicose Veins

Amaranth seeds could become a natural solution to this lesser-known condition. Minerals like potassium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, and magnesium are associated to treat varicose veins. Enriched with the minerals, amaranth grains function to strengthening capillary walls promoting the production of collagen. The adequate quantity of collagen later helps rejuvenate blood vessel walls.

11. Gluten Free Food Option

People who consumed gluten-free diet will be delighted to learn that amaranth contains zero gluten content. Moreover, it can become a nutritious alternative for those suffering from gluten intolerance and even Celiac’s disease. However, it is suggested to seek professional help and refrain from self-medication in case of Celiac’s disease.

12. Amaranth Prevents Atherosclerosis

The content of potassium in amaranth is what you need to prevent risks that contribute to a daunting health problem like atherosclerosis. It helps reduce high blood pressure that contributes to various cardiovascular problems. Studies have also revealed that potassium is necessary to ward off factors associated with bad cholesterol.

13. Reduces Inflammation

A recent study has concluded that regular consumption of amaranth can be a useful treatment of inflammation. Loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, it can alleviate conditions such as gout, arthritis, and other inflammation. However, it is suggested to consult with your primary care provider in case of severe joint inflammation as it could be a symptom of serious health problem.

Bottom Line

Amaranth seeds are no doubt a powerhouse of nutrients that have potential to improve your health condition. Therefore, incorporate it into your diet, embrace a healthy body, and enhance the quality of your life.