Somehow, in the teacher’s lounge the other day, we started talking about quinoa!  I , of course, got very excited about it !  No one really knew what it was , so I decided to bring it in for everyone to try.  I explained the benefits of quinoa:

• Complete protein. Quinoa contains all 9 essential amino acids that are required by the body as building blocks for muscles.
  
• Magnesium helps relax your muscles and blood vessels and effects blood pressure. Quinoa contains high levels of this vital nutrient.
• Fiber. Quinoa is a wonderful way to ensure that you consume valuable fiber that eases elimination and tones your colon.
• Manganese and copper. Quinoa is a good source of these minerals that act as antioxidants in your body to get rid of dangerous cancer and disease-causing substances.

Compared to other grains, quinoa is higher in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese, and zinc than wheat, barley, or corn.²

Studies have shown that quinoa has documented health benefits too!

Quinoa, in its whole grain form, may be effective in preventing and treating these conditions:³

• Artherosclerosis
• Breast cancer
• Diabetes
• Insulin resistance

Researchers attribute the health benefits of quinoa to its complete nutritional makeup.

Quinoa is close to one of the most complete foods in nature because it contains amino acids, enzymes, vitamins and minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

Quinoa: A Body Ecology Grain

It does not feed fungal and bacterial infections in your body (and doctors estimate that 8 in 10 Americans have fungal infections, like candia!)¹.

Quinoa has other qualities that make it an ideal “grain”:

• Quinoa acts as a prebiotic that feeds the microflora (good bacteria) in your intestines.
  
• Quinoa is easily digested for optimal absorption of nutrients.
  
• Quinoa is gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance, people on a celiac diet, and for autistic children who follow the Body Ecology program for autism.

Thanks, http://www.bodyecology.com/07/04/12/quinoa_benefits_guide.php, for the great info!

I then explained that it can be eaten in a HUGE variety of ways.  I offered a simple veggie mix of either, Italian, Asian, or Southwest/Mexican.  Easy to transport, simple to make, cheap and WONDERFUL!

Here is the salad:

• 2 c. quinoa cooked as directed in 4 c. water
• 1 avacado cut into small pieces
• 3 tomatoes
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can corn
• 1/2 c. light Italian dressing
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 T. lime juice
• 1/2 can chick peas and white beans (these were leftover in my fridge so I threw them in)

Mix all ingredients (except quinoa) together.  Add more cumin, lime, dressing and salt and pepper as you like.  When ingredients are mixed, add quinoa.

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