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Amaranth: From the Aztecs to Space

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A protein concentration 16% higher on average than any other grain.

amaranth

Amaranth, a grain used by Native Americans as food and an offering to the gods, has been one of the crops used by astronauts on space flights for a couple of decades.

NASA, on its way to lead humanity in its expansion through the stars, has been using Amaranth in its space missions as a regulator of air and water as a life support within shuttle flights, given its ability to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. And not least, as the extraordinary food source that it is.

Amaranth is a grain with a protein concentration 16% on average higher than any other. Such a high source of carbohydrates that it is used in the hyper-caloric diets of high-level athletes, and for the rest, gluten-free, making it an ideal grain for diets for people intolerant to it, or for those who they want to reduce the consumption of meat in their diet.

Another of its characteristics is its concentration of Lysine, one of the 10 essential amino acids for human life. This amino acid is directly related to the production of proteins in the body, incidence in the absorption of football in the body, as well as in the production of hormones, enzymes and antibodies. You can also meet your lysine requirements through asparagus, beans, spinach, lentils, quinoa, or soy.

Some other benefits that you can obtain from the consumption of amaranth are its effects on cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as its effect on the liver system and the skeleton.

Amaranth can be used in many ways, and here in Mexico it is extremely easy to find in any supermarket or health food store.

Do you want an original recipe with Amaranth? Visit our section recipes, there are some cookies that will make your mouth water ...

Frequently asked questions from our readers:

Amaranth is considered a superfood due to its numerous health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, which makes it an ally to strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, control weight and prevent cardiovascular diseases. In addition, its antioxidant content helps fight aging and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Read more here: https://www.equilibriumx.com/super-alimentos/el-amaranto-de-los-aztecas-al-espacio
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To make amaranth oatmeal cookies, mix oats, whole wheat flour, amaranth, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and salt in a bowl. Add melted coconut oil, egg and vanilla extract, and mix until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Shape the cookies and bake at 180°C for 12-15 minutes. Enjoy these delicious and nutritious cookies! Read more here: https://www.equilibriumx.com/recetas/galletas-de-avena-con-amaranto

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The amaranth with apple smoothie is a nutritious drink that combines the benefits of amaranth with those of apple. This smoothie serves as a rich source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and may aid in appetite regulation and weight loss.

The apple provides additional vitamins, antioxidants and a naturally sweet flavor. This smoothie is ideal for a healthy breakfast or energy snack, providing complex carbohydrates and protein for sustained energy. It can also be useful for those looking for healthy and natural food options to integrate into their diet.

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Amaranth is native to America, with a cultivation history that dates back to the Aztec and Inca civilizations. It was widely cultivated in Mexico, Peru and other regions of Central and South America.

After Spanish colonization, its cultivation was suppressed, but it survived in small areas and has recently re-emerged as an important crop due to its nutritional value and its resistance to adverse climatic conditions. Today, amaranth is grown in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and North America.

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Amaranth is an ancient grain highly valued for its high nutritional content and versatility in the kitchen. It serves as an excellent source of complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids, which is rare in grains. It is also rich in fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin B6) and minerals such as iron, magnesium and phosphorus. For these reasons, it is beneficial for digestive health, bone strength, and blood sugar regulation.

Amaranth is also a popular choice for people with gluten sensitivity, as it is naturally gluten-free. In the kitchen, it can be used in a variety of ways, from cooked as a cereal, to puffed or ground into flour for breads and desserts.

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Last modified: March 27, 2024