Meet the unusual plants that can become part of the diet not only vegans or vegetarians.
Chia seeds of Salvia hispanica
Chia seed is Salvia hispanica. This is due to its specific conditions for the growth of cultivated only in Central America. Chia seeds to be called the treasure of Aztec runners who have the exceptional properties of seeds were able to better manage energy. Therefore, these seeds are popular among athletes today. Their uniqueness is confirmed by the fact that at the time around 900 BC. Mexico was used as currency. "Chia seeds are extremely rich in nutrients. They contain up to three times more iron than spinach, two times more potassium than bananas or five times more calcium than milk. Also unsurpassed source of plant omega-3 fatty acids and proteins. Thanks to its unique composition have a positive effect on the heart, blood vessels and memory or help prevent Alzheimer's disease, "said Jan Peter (Vitalvibe). Chia seeds according to him, receiving in recent years in the limelight. "Chia consumed in whole and ground. Fits into a variety of salads, you can also add them to yogurt or bread, "added Peter.
Quinoa South American goosefoot
Quinoa or quinoa was initially popular among the Incas. Now it is grown in mountainous regions of South America, especially on the slopes of the Andes. Although quinoa is one of the world's most popular healthy foods in the Czech Republic is still not very well known. Quinoa is one of the richest on the plant proteins. It contains all nine essential amino acids, including lysine rare. It is also rich in fiber, which holds up to two times higher than for other cereals. This makes it a suitable diet digestive upsets. Furthermore, it significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer and heart disease. Quinoa is also characterized by a high mineral content, especially iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin B2 and E. It has a low glycemic index, which promotes the reduction of blood pressure and thus also suitable for diabetics. Currently Quinoa seed used to prepare flour or as suitable attachment instead of rice. Fresh leaves quinoa is then suited to salads.
Alias carob carob or carob
Carob powder comes from the fruit trees Ceratonia Siliqua growing in the Mediterranean. Carob is also called the carob or carob. His qualities were aware of the Greeks and Egyptians, of which formed part of a normal diet. Currently carob pods and seeds used in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Carob is an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals. It is rich mainly magnesium, calcium, iron and vitamins A, B and D. The pods Seedless serves as a healthy substitute for cocoa. Carob contains no caffeine and has a significantly lower calorific value. In terms of nutritional composition is carob represented only 7% fat and up to 48% of sugars. For this reason it is not needed to sweeten. It also contains a high proportion of fiber. Other health benefits include lowering blood cholesterol and blood pressure lowering.
Spelt wheat or type of dissolvable
Spelt is one of the oldest cultivated cereals, originally from Mesopotamia. This is the kind of disintegrating wheat, whose popularity in the field of nutrition is growing rapidly due to its rich nutritional composition and content of complex carbohydrates, insoluble fiber, amino acids and a high proportion of vitamins and minerals. "Spelt contains high amounts of protein and special carbohydrate mucopolysaccharides, which promotes quality and lifetime bone and also releases energy into the body gradually. At the same time, thanks to its high fiber content and low proportion of gluten far more palatable than common wheat, "said Jan Peter. Spelt is also possible to use as a healthier and higher quality alternative to coffee because it contains caffeine.
Shiitake or shiitake
Shiitake mushroom, known in Czech as shiitake, comes from Japan. Its name consists of two words. Shii, therefore, oak, and also mushroom. Currently shiitake enjoying high popularity, along with mushrooms is the second most commonly grown fungus in the world. Popular both for its delicious taste and rich share of healthful nutrients, especially iron, magnesium and vitamins B and D. Shiitake contains high levels of lentinan, which has a positive effect on the immune system. Lentinan in Japan is also approved for the treatment of certain cancers. Next, the sponge excellent antioxidant. Indeed intercepts free radicals in the body produced by improper diet. In addition, recent research revealed that shiitake reduces the risk of heart and vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. The fungus has already proved itself as a cure for acne.
Source: tz, editorially modified