Many ancient grains, such as quinoa, millet, and farro, have lately come to recognition as excellent sources of plant-based protein, fiber, minerals, and slow-digesting carbohydrates. But it's one of the tiniest and most unsung grains which packs the mightiest nutritional punch: teff.
Teff, the long-kept secret of Ethiopian runners and athletes, is now available for the rest of the world to enjoy.
Recently, there has been a surge in interest in the super food grain, which is gaining global traction because to its exceptional nutritional characteristics. It is currently grown in many countries throughout the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
Teff Nutrition
Teff is a super food that is gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts all over the world. It is rapidly supplanting quinoa in our diets because to its exceptional protein and mineral content. Teff food items are high in crude fiber.
Teff has high protein content with a great amino acid balance and a full complement of necessary amino acids, earning it the title of endurance building food. When compared to other cereal grains ingested as whole grain flours, such as wheat, maize, barley, and sorghum, teff grain has a higher iron content and other minerals such as calcium, copper, and zinc.
According to a recent study, teff is a substantial source of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, and is particularly high in flavonoid derivatives which are rare in the other common grains.
Teff's Health Benefits
The Indian diet is 60% grain/cereal-based, which contributes to the country's protein and B12 deficiency. Teff is an excellent choice for resolving this issue.
Furthermore, since teff is naturally gluten-free, it has the potential to be used in a broad variety of goods, which is very important for people with celiac disease. Because of its low glycemic index and high fiber content, teff helps diabetics maintain their blood sugar levels.
This also makes the grain an ideal partner for people looking to reduce weight. It is naturally low in sodium and is an excellent addition to a healthy meal.
As a result, whatever your fitness goal is, teff offers something for you. Here are some additional teff health benefits:
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Gluten-free nature
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It is rich in crude fiber
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High protein content with great balance and a full complement of necessary amino acids
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Teff has 13.3g protein per 100 gram meal
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When compared to other cereal grains, it has a high iron concentration as well as other minerals such as calcium, copper, and zinc
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A 100-gram serving of teff contains 7.6 mg of iron
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A substantial source of bioactive compounds including polyphenols, which are notably high in flavonoid derivatives
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Teff has the same amount of calcium as half a cup of milk in a 100-gram serving
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Teff contains 28 percent of our daily value of copper in just one cup
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Teff strengthens the immune system since it contains a lot of B vitamins and minerals
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Natural salt deficiency
Interesting Ways to Include Teff In Your Diet
Last but not least, teff is really delicious! Teff has a little grainy texture that gives any recipe a crispy texture.
It has a distinct nutty flavor and cooks more quickly than other grains. Because of the grain's versatility, it may be incorporated to everything, from chapattis, dosas, and breads to cookies and cakes. As a result, the grain may be simply incorporated into any diet. In a nutshell, it's everything a super food should be!
