Superfood Breakfast Bowl Packs a Nutritional Punch: Study Develops High-Protein, Low-Sugar Option

Looking for a breakfast that keeps you energized and satisfied? Researchers have developed a new breakfast option made with quinoa and tigernuts that boasts a unique nutritional profile and potential health benefits. This superfood bowl could be a game-changer for those seeking a healthy and delicious way to start their day.

Synergy of Superfoods: Quinoa and Tigernuts

The study focused on creating a breakfast meal using two powerhouses of nutrition:

  • Quinoa: A complete protein source rich in essential amino acids, fiber, and minerals.
  • Tigernuts: High in fiber, prebiotics, and healthy fats, with a naturally sweet taste.

Beyond Basic Nutrition: A Functional Food Powerhouse

The research highlights the unique nutritional properties of the quinoa-titernut breakfast:

  • High Protein and Low Starch: This breakfast option boasts a higher protein and fat content compared to commercial breakfast cereals. It also contains minimal starch, making it potentially beneficial for blood sugar management.
  • Non-Digestible Starch for Gut Health: Over 35% of the starch in the meal is non-digestible, potentially promoting gut health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Rich in Essential Minerals: The breakfast is a good source of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium, crucial for various bodily functions. Notably, the low sodium-to- potassium ratio makes it ideal for those watching their blood pressure.

Antioxidant Powerhouse:

The study reveals the breakfast’s potential to combat free radicals:

  • High Phenol and Flavonoid Content: Compared to commercial options, this breakfast bowl boasts a higher content of phenols and flavonoids, natural antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
  • Strong Antioxidant Activity: The breakfast demonstrated significant antioxidant capacity in various tests, potentially offering additional health benefits.

Slowing Down Digestion:

The breakfast may also help regulate blood sugar:

  • Inhibition of Carbohydrate Enzymes: The quinoa-titernut blend exhibited a higher capacity to inhibit carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes compared to commercial products. This could lead to slower digestion and potentially reduced blood sugar spikes.

Taste Test Success

The good news doesn’t stop there! Sensory evaluation revealed that:

  • Delicious and Appealing: Taste testers found the breakfast bowl to be as good or even better than commercial options in terms of taste, texture, and overall sensory experience.

A Promising Option for a Healthy Start

This research on the quinoa-titernut breakfast offers exciting possibilities for healthy eating:

  • A Functional Food Option: This breakfast bowl combines high protein, healthy fats, fiber, and low sugar, making it a functional food with potential health benefits.
  • Catering to Dietary Needs: With its unique nutritional profile, this breakfast could be suitable for various dietary needs, including those managing blood sugar or seeking high-protein options.
  • A Delicious and Nutritious Choice: The study demonstrates that healthy breakfasts can also be tasty and satisfying, promoting healthy eating habits.

This research paves the way for more innovative and nutritious breakfast options. The quinoa-titernut breakfast bowl offers a delicious and functional food option for those seeking a healthy and energizing start to their day.

Olusola Samuel Jolayemi & Temiloluwa Olufunmilayo Alabi. Nutritional, physicochemical and quality profiles of organically sweetened gluten-free breakfast meal from quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) and tigernuts (Cyperus esculentus L.). Food Production, Processing and Nutrition volume 5, Article number: 42 (2023)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please reload

Please Wait