Benefits of Quinoa

Here at Bari Life we know how important it is to eat right following bariatric surgery. Along with your bariatric vitamins, what foods provide the proper nutrients and also taste great?

Quinoa What?

Quinoa, first domesticated by the Andean people 3,000 to 4,000 years ago, has become increasingly popular in the United States, Canada and Europe. It has been called a “superfood” because of its high protein content.

Per 100 calories, quinoas protein content is higher than that of brown rice, potatoes, barley and millet. With its delicate texture, it is a great substitute for pasta and rice.

Quinoa is quite right for your diet

Following bariatric surgery, you want to make sure you are getting enough nutrients and protein in your diet. Quinoa is a great addition to your diet for several reasons:

• Vitamins – quinoa seeds are rich in eight essential amino acids and vitamins such as magnesium and calcium. Quinoa is also high in iron and vitamin B 12.
• Low Glycemic Index – quinoa is 35 on the glycemic index, which is relatively low and similar to most vegetables.
• Low Calorie – one serving of cooked quinoa contains approximately 172 calories.

Cooking with quinoa

It is a delicate balance between getting your daily vitamins, eating right and also eating tasty, delicious foods. High in protein and fiber, quinoa is not only versatile, it also tastes wonderful and has a nice crunch.

Quinoa is as easy to prepare as rice and pasta. It can be substituted in dishes that call for pasta or rice. It can even be used in place of breakfast cereal. You can find quinoa at most health food stores and, increasingly, at most chain grocery stores and even Walmart.

Check out these great recipe ideas using quinoa:

• Spicy quinoa with sweet potatoes
• Greek quinoa salad
• Lentil quinoa salad
• Chicken and quinoa soup
• Chicken and dumpling soup with quinoa

Try incorporating quinoa into your diet. Once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delicious and nutritious delight!

To your health!

The Bari Life Team

Improving the health and wellness of bariatric patients around the world by providing the most complete bariatric vitamin formulas that are highly effective and clinically proven.