While humans have been eating grains for hundreds of years, the grains we eat today are not the same as those enjoyed by our ancestors, due to modern processing and modification techniques. Below, we’ve rounded up 5 of our favourite ancient grains and explained a bit about their superfood status…
By Katherine Watt
Quinoa
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few foods that contain sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids. The seeds are rich in B vitamins, which help to promote better skin health and better hair.
Rye
Twice as high in fibre as wheat flour, rye is a recognised prebiotic which supports friendly probiotic bacteria in the gut. It’s also a source of iron and magnesium which can help fight tiredeness and fatigue, as well as zinc which can support a healthy immune system. The high fibre content alsso aims to fight inflammation and contribute to lower levels of cholesterol.
Buckwheat
Buckwheat probably isn’t a food you have on your shopping list all that often, as it is in fact a ‘pseudo-cereal’ super seed related to rhubarb. Nutritionist Cassandra Barns explains that buckwheat can help you manage your weight since “it has a low glycaemic load (GL), which means that the carbohydrates it contains break down and release slowly into your blood. This helps maintain a steady blood sugar level and avoid the ‘swings’ that can happen after eating higher-GL foods such as white bread, rice or corn. You’ll find it easier to manage your appetite and eliminate cravings for sugary foods”.
Farro
Farro, also called emmer, is considered to be one of the more “exotic” ancient grains along with sorghum and quinoa and has some amazing health benefits. It’s loaded with nutrients and vitamins including magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B3. It’s also low-fat, low calorie and full of antioxidants.
Amaranth
Amaranth comes from a herb and is jam-packed with calcium and is also high in iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. It’s naturally gluten-free and has been linked to decreased heart disease.
