Get Fit with Quinta Quinoa

Created by Daniela Baranovsky (U of G) and Edited by Quinta

Welcome to 2016 everyone! If re-establishing your fitness made your list of New Years resolutions, you’re not alone. Losing weight, improving eating habits and increasing your fitness are among the top New Year’s resolutions, and unfortunately, they’re also the most commonly failed! To help you stick to your 2016 health plan, we at Quinta Quinoa have some tips to help you stick to your resolutions this year!

Quinoa is an amazing superfood that is unlike any traditional cereal grain. It is a high source of complete protein, has a low glycemic index, and provides many essential minerals including zinc, iron and copper. While some consumers are still learning how to use quinoa in their every day meal planning, it is very versatile and easy to incorporate into your favourite meals.  Here are some tips on how to use quinoa and how it can help you achieve your health goals in 2016.

FIT TIP 1: Quinoa salad for lunch

It is important to have a satiating lunch at school or work to give you energy throughout the day and tide you over until dinner. When it comes to satiation- quinoa fits the bill! Preparing salads is simple and there are endless combinations of ingredients to appeal to everyone’s taste pallet. Try adding apples, nuts, tomatoes, pears, strawberries, and peppers along with your favourite dressing. We recommend making a large portion at the beginning of the week and keeping it in the fridge separate from your dressing. Throw it in your lunch bag in the morning every day and enjoy for lunch or throughout the day. This way you have a filling and nutritious meal to keep you from running to the fast food restaurant or the vending machine.

FIT TIP 2: Replace white rice and pasta with quinoa

Rice and pasta are staples in many of our diets, whether as a meal or a side dish. Replacing rice and pasta with quinoa adds protein to your meal and replaces refined sugars found in white grain products that cause a spike in blood sugar. Quinoa is high in fiber, which increases the transit time in your stomach, making you feel fuller longer, decreasing the spike in blood sugar, and keeping you regular. Try a quinoa stir-fry, or a Mexican quinoa bake. Both are super easy and delicious! Keep an eye on our blog for these tasty recipes. If you still like the texture of rice or pasta, try substituting for a quinoa pasta or quinoa and brown rice blend!

FIT TIP 3: Quinoa post workout

After a workout it’s a great idea to try fueling up with quinoa as it has a complete amino acid profile. A complete protein is essential for building muscle after a workout and signaling an insulin response. Quinta Quinoa is especially useful to vegans or vegetarians looking for a protein source to help build and maintain muscles. Try making quinoa bars for a quick post workout snack after the gym. Stay connected to our blog for a quinoa protein bar recipe.

If you follow these 3 easy fit tips, you may notice that you are no longer craving that chocolate bar at work or a late-night snack after dinner. You will feel more satisfied because the food you are eating will give you more energy and is more nutritious (and not to mention delicious).