1. Quinoa
Quinoa is a nutritious seed that has become incredibly popular in the natural health community.
It is classified as a pseudocereal, a seed that is prepared and eaten like a grain.
Cooked quinoa is 21.3% carbs, making it a high-carb food. However, it is also a good source of protein and fiber.
Quinoa is rich in many minerals and plant compounds. It has been linked to health benefits including improved blood sugar control (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
It does not contain any gluten, making it a popular alternative to wheat for those on a gluten-free diet.
Quinoa is also very filling since it is relatively high in fiber and protein. For this reason, it may aid in weight loss (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source).
SUMMARY
Quinoa is highly nutritious. It numerous health benefits include improved blood sugar control. Quinoa is also high in protein and fiber, so it may be useful for weight loss.
2. Oats
Oats may be the healthiest whole grain food on the planet.
They are a great source of many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Raw oats contain 66% carbs, nearly 11% of which is fiber. They are particularly high in a powerful soluble fiber called oat beta-glucan.
Oats are also a relatively good source of protein, containing more than most grains (5Trusted Source).
Research suggests that oats may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).
Eating oats may also lower blood sugar levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).
Furthermore, oats are very filling and may help you lose weight (12Trusted Source).
SUMMARY
Oats contain many beneficial nutrients, including fiber and protein. Oats have been shown to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
