Sacha inchi being rich in protein, omega 3, 6, and 9, alpha-tocopherol vitamin e, carotenoids (vitamin a), and fiber has several health benefits. Sacha inchi regulates cholesterol, promotes wellbeing, helps in weight loss, enhances our vision, brain, heart, joint, and bone health, helps diabetes, and also builds muscles. Moreover, this superfood is easily digested and unlikely to cause allergies or irritation and the oil is also available.
Sacha inchi, also known as the Inca peanut, is the seed of a plant that grows in the highlands of Peru. Vegans and vegetarians should look into omega 3 rich foods to supply this essential nutrient. There are very few plant foods that supply a decent amount. Sacha inchi now joins purslane, chia seeds, flaxseed, and microalgae as vegan omega 3 superfoods and another way to sneak more healthy essential fats into your life.
11 Surprising Health Benefits Of Sacha Inchi
Regulates Cholesterol
Sacha inchi lowers LDL and raises HDL cholesterol. Cholesterol levels may not be the biggest marker for cardiovascular problems as we once thought them to be, but they are still a concern and can reflect dietary problems and genetic dispositions toward some diseases. Lowering our cholesterol will ensure that the heart doesn’t have extra pressure and as a result, you will be safe from heart attacks.
Promotes Wellbeing
These seeds contain a good amount of tryptophan, a precursor for serotonin. Serotonin is a feel-good hormone and neurotransmitter that helps us deal with stress and feel calm and happy. Omega 3 also reduces inflammation in the brain, which can cause mood shifts, headaches, and more. People with mental health issues should definitely include sacha inchi in their diet in order to improve the quality of their life.
Helps in Weight loss
Higher serotonin levels, thanks to the tryptophan, also regulate appetite so we don’t get cravings, overeat, or snack more than we need to. People struggling with weight loss issues should definitely include sacha inchi in their diets. This will help them lose weight in a much more efficient manner.
Enhances Brain Health
The majority of our brain is composed of fat. We need good, healthy fats to resupply those cells and to continually fight inflammation. Inflammation in the brain can cause depression, fatigue, memory issues, and exaggerated responses to pain. Therefore, including sacha inchi in our diet is important for our brain health.
Heart Health
It helps improves circulation while lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation throughout the body. All of this makes for a healthier, happier, less stressed cardiovascular system, from arteries to heart and beyond. Therefore, for our heart health, it is important to include sacha inchi in our diet.
Diabetes
Omega 3 helps control glucose levels. Many doctors and researchers argue that omega 3 may actually reduce insulin resistance in those with type 2 diabetes. Omega 3 also lowers triglyceride levels, which are often high in diabetics.
Bone Health
Omega 3s help the body absorb calcium. Foods rich in omega 3 improve bone density, staving off some of the deterioration that occurs as we age.
Vision
The vitamin e, vitamin a, and omegas in sacha inchi can improve vision and maintain eye health. Like the brain, the eyes rely on a good amount of fat, and are prone to inflammatory damage, especially as we get older.
Joint Health
The anti-inflammatory nature may make it a good supplement to ease joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis. Consider combining sacha inchi oil with ginger for even more benefits.
Skin and Hair
Omega 3 fatty acids are vital to healthy hair and skin. They help us regulate oil production, keep skin elastic, lock in hydration, protect against sun damage, and help repair damage when it occurs.
Builds Muscles
With more protein than almonds, walnuts, and cashews, sacha inchi is an excellent source of complete protein, containing all 8 essential amino acids that our bodies cannot create. This super seed is 30% protein by weight—higher than many nuts and seeds. Protein is an important component of every cell in your body; it develops, repairs, and maintains lean muscle mass. Iron, which sacha inchi seeds are also rich in, helps muscles keep their tone and elasticity because it provides oxygen for the contraction of muscles.
Therefore to conclude, sacha inchi is good for health and you should definitely include it in your diet. However, consult your doctor before deciding anything.
References:
http://academicjournals.org/journal/jmpr/article-full-text/34b41a859722
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942912.2019.1640247
