Buckwheat is cultivated as a cover crop and has grain-like seeds. Buckwheat, as the name suggests, is not made out of wheat. It is more related to sorrel, knotweed, and rhubarb. It’s is rich in complex carbohydrates, here it is known as a pseudocereal.
Benefits:
Prevents the risk of diabetes
As buckwheat contains minimum carbohydrates, it ranks low on the glycemic index. When you consume buckwheat, it allows the nutrients to be absorbed into your bloodstream steadily. This makes you feel energized throughout the day. It regulates your blood sugar level and any ailments like fatigue, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome which are common in diabetes.
Improved digestion
Buckwheat contains dietary fiber which can treat digestive upsets without affecting health adversely. Digestive tract and bowel movements will be improved.
Protein source
If you are a vegetarian and looking for a protein-based diet such as keto or low-carb diet you can use buckwheat for protein intake. This contains twelve amino acids. You can consume buckwheat along with quinoa, beans and, legumes to get the maximum health benefits.
Maintaining cholesterol levels
Studies show that buckwheat can effectively lower cholesterol levels. The good cholesterol levels will be increased and the bad cholesterol will be decreased.
Acts as an anti-oxidant
Your body needs a sufficient amount of antioxidants to fight against cancerous cells. Phenolic properties, antioxidants, and flavonoids such as oligomeric proanthocyanidins are present in Buckwheat. It can ward off free radicals effectively supporting your liver, digestive and brain health.
Gluten-free
This is a piece of good news for people who are allergic to gluten. Along with the above benefits, buckwheat is also gluten-free.
Fewer calories
What else can buckwheat do for us? Yes! The calorie count. Buckwheat is very less in calorie. A single serving contains only 22 calories.
Other benefits of buckwheat include
- Risk of gall stones is reduced
- Prevents asthma
- Improves bone health
- Prevents anemia
A word of caution:
- Buckwheat is not an elixir. It does have some drawbacks such as:
- There is no proof for safety for consuming buckwheat during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Buckwheat can cause allergy in some, symptoms include skin rash; runny nose; asthma; and a potentially fatal drop in blood pressure, itching, swelling, and difficulty in breathing (anaphylactic shock)
It is better to consult your personal doctor before you start adding buckwheat to your diet.