You’re sensitive to the grain and don’t know why? We’ve got you covered!
Quinoa is considered one of the most nutritious foods and a complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids. But, if it’s so good for our health, why do some experience discomfort after eating quinoa?
We’ve compiled a list with some ‘strange” side effects of eating quinoa.
Intolerance
Many people experience intolerance to quinoa. How can you know if you got it?
If you have an intolerance to quinoa, you may experience inflammation in the lungs, skin, and digestive tract, which could cause diarrhea. But some people experience hives, stomach pain, eczema, nausea, and itchiness.
If you’ve eaten quinoa before and never experienced any of those issues, but you’re beginning to feel one of the symptoms above, then you may have got an allergy to saponin.
Saponin is a chemical found in quinoa’s coating that shields the quinoa plant from fungus and pests.
A Risk of Increased Kidney Stones
It’s better if you limit your consumption of some plant-based food, including quinoa, if you’re susceptible to kidney stones. Quinoa comprises a substance dubbed oxalic acid or oxalate.
However, there’s good news, too. The substance is naturally excreted through urine, so you don’t have to worry much.
Remember to discuss with a specialist any concerns, especially if you have kidney disease!
You Could Feel Bloated or Have Gas
Quinoa is very rich in fiber. For example, only one cup of cooked quinoa contains over 5gr of fiber!
According to the USDA’s recent dietary guidelines, women need 22 to 28gr of fiber/ day, while men, 28 to 34gr of fiber/day.
Consuming too much fiber can make you feel bloated because fiber is considered an indigestible carb. So, if you’re not used to serving quinoa, and you choose to consume a lot in just one sitting, you better think twice!
