Top Benefits of Red Amaranth Seeds

 

Amaranth is a grain-like quinoa famous for its gluten-free properties. The seeds of the amaranth plant are small and light brown. They can be cooked like oats or rice and often eaten as a porridge. The seeds are also ground into flour and used in different recipes as a gluten-free alternative to flour. This superfood is known to provide multiple benefits to the body. The protein-rich plant offers multiple benefits as one can consume it in the form of cereal, leaves, or even oil. The leaves of this plant find application in making medicines, while the oil from this plant is used as a topical agent for promoting skin health. The following article explains the prime benefits of Amaranth seeds and how to grow these plants in your home garden. 

 

1. Nutritional profile of Amaranth seeds

 

Red amaranth seeds contain fiber, proteins, magnesium, manganese, iron, and phosphorus. They aid in regulating digestion, enhance physical strength, and lower the risk of broken or fractured bones. One cup of cooked amaranth seeds contains the following:

• Calories: 251
• Carbohydrates: 46 gms
• Protein: 9.3 gms
• Fat: 3.9 grams
• Fiber: 5.2 grams

 

2. Vitamins and minerals

 

• Manganese 
• Magnesium 
• Phosphorus 
• Iron
• Vitamin B6 
• Folate
• Zinc 
• Calcium 
• Potassium 

 

3. Benefits of consuming amaranth seeds

 

• Zero gluten substitute

Amaranth seeds are not grains and contain good proteins, making them a great gluten-free option for baking and other dishes. It can be used in place of cornflour in soups and sauces. 

 

• Lowers cholesterol levels

These seeds contain phytosterols that are effective in lowering cholesterol.

 

• Reduces inflammation

Red amaranth seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that lower inflammation and pain. They are also beneficial in chronic inflammatory conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Consuming these seeds can also lower inflammation risks after spraining muscles.

 

• Maintains blood pressure levels

The phytonutrient and fiber content in the seeds are effective in maintaining and lowering blood pressure. 

 

• Rich protein source

These seeds are rich in protein content and contain amino acids, making them beneficial to health.

 

• Aids digestion process

Amaranth seeds have a high fiber content, making them beneficial for reducing issues like bloating and constipation. They also deal with issues like excess fat. The high fiber content in the seeds makes one feel fuller, improves digestion, and increases energy production.

 

• Supports overall health

These protein-rich seeds also have high vitamin and mineral content. They have high potassium, phosphorous, and zinc levels, perfect for improving overall health. Consuming these seeds helps develop strong muscles and bones, increase energy, and improve hydration.

 

• Supports immunity

Amaranth seeds help boost immunity with their rich nutrient profile.

 

4. Growing amaranth seeds in your home garden

 

Given the extensive benefits of these seeds, it can be beneficial if you harvest your amaranth plant and utilize it in different forms in your diet. As this plant is native to India, you can easily grow it.

 

Amaranth plants can be grown throughout the year in India, however, summer is the best time to grow these plants.

• Amaranth plant seeds do not require any preparation before planting, like soaking.
• Once can directly plant these seeds two to three inches deeper in the soil and four inches apart.
• Water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil is not too moist or dry.
• After you seed the seeds sprout, plant them 10 inches apart from each other.
• Ensure your plant receives five to six hours of direct sunlight.
• Use a well-draining pot mix or soil for these plants.
• Avoid overwatering the plant.
• These plant does not require a lot of care and grows on its own.
• You can harvest the red leaves of amaranth plants when they are tender or even after they are fully grown.
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5. Final thoughts

 

Red amaranth seeds provide extensive health benefits, hence, they are a great addition to our diet. If you want to grow red amaranth in your home garden, you can purchase red amaranth seeds in India from Ratanshi Agro-Hortitech. The plant nursery in Mumbai offers organic red amaranth seeds online in India, along with other gardening supplies.