Six reasons why you should eat more buckwheat

Buckwheat is rich in nutrients and minerals such as copper, magnesium and iron and is rich in fibre. Here are 6 more reasons why you should eat more buckwheat.

What is buckwheat?

Despite the name, buckwheat is not a form of wheat, nor is it a grain. Instead, they are the seeds of the Fagopyrum esculentum plant, which belongs to the knotweed family. The annual herbaceous plant has been cultivated and consumed for centuries, especially in Asian countries. However, the seeds are now gaining popularity due to their health benefits and versatility.

Although it is not a true grain, buckwheat is often used as such and, like amaranth, millet and quinoa, it is one of the so-called pseudo-grains. The fruit's nutritious seeds are high in protein and fiber and can be used in a variety of dishes, especially cakes, breads, muesli, salads, soups or as a gluten-free substitute for flour. The plant has therefore gained increasing importance in recent years, especially for people suffering from celiac disease (gluten sensitivity). In addition, buckwheat contains few calories and fat and is a rich source of amino acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Buckwheat offers a variety of health benefits. Find out here which one it is.

Health benefits of buckwheat

1. Buckwheat regulates blood sugar

If there is too much sugar in the blood, the blood sugar level rises accordingly. If this is the case in the long term, hyperglycemia develops as a secondary disease. It occurs when the body cannot produce insulin (the hormone that moves glucose in the blood) or when the body cannot use insulin properly. However, the body needs insulin to generate energy. High blood sugar is commonly associated with diabetes, and if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems. A study in mice showed that buckwheat can lower blood sugar levels by up to 19 percent. Buckwheat contains the antioxidant phytochemical chiro-inositol, which can regulate blood sugar levels by mimicking the chemical appearance and functions of insulin.

2. A good source of vegetable protein

Although the protein content of buckwheat is not quite as high as that of legumes, quinoa, or oats, the plant is still an effective source of plant-based protein. Due to its balanced amino acid properties, the protein in buckwheat is of very high quality. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for life. Buckwheat contains eight of these essential amino acids, which humans cannot produce on their own. Therefore, it must be taken with food. Because animal foods also contain all eight amino acids, buckwheat is of particular interest to vegetarians and vegans.

3. Supports heart health

Buckwheat contains a number of nutrients that have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. Rutin found in buckwheat, a flavonoid also found in citrus fruits, can help strengthen blood vessels and make them more elastic. The plant material not only has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect - it makes the blood thinner, increases blood flow and promotes blood circulation. This, in turn, reduces the formation of blood clots and the possibility of stroke or other heart disease.

4. Buckwheat is gluten-free

Although the word "wheat" in the name might suggest otherwise, buckwheat is not a grain but rather the protein-rich seed of a plant similar to rhubarb. Therefore, buckwheat is one of the pseudocereals and is especially suitable for people who cannot tolerate gluten. Buckwheat is also a good alternative for people with wheat intolerance. The baking properties of buckwheat flour are similar to those of traditional cereals, which is why it can be used in the kitchen without any problems.

5. Buckwheat regulates cholesterol levels

Several studies suggest that eating buckwheat may help lower cholesterol levels.

In addition to fiber, buckwheat also provides a large amount of lecithin. Lecithin is an important component of animal and plant cell membranes and belongs to the group of phospholipids. This nutrient prevents the absorption of cholesterol through the intestinal mucosa. In this way, cholesterol is eliminated again and health risks resulting from high cholesterol levels can be reduced.

6. Buckwheat improves brain performance

The lecithin in buckwheat not only prevents the absorption of cholesterol, but it strengthens the nerves and can have a positive effect on brain performance. Lecithin is an important component of the brain and nerve cells. Regular consumption of foods containing lecithin can help replenish sluggish brain cells and improve memory, speech, and motor skills. In addition, it contributes to the production of vital neurotransmitters responsible for storing and retrieving memories, according to a study.