College of Ayurvedic Diet & Digestion

College of Ayurvedic Diet & Digestion

 

AYURVEDIC FOODS

Quinoa Benefits (According to Ayurveda)


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"I am Pitta and I use quinoa in tabbouleh to replace bulgur wheat. Also use organic quinoa flakes as my breakfast..."
- Eileen Viera, FL

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How Does This Ayurvedic Food Improve Wellness?

CLINICAL AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Recipes with Quinoa: Salmon Quinoa Burger
Recipes with Quinoa: Salmon Quinoa Burger
Though the name might seem difficult to pronounce, quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is far from difficult to enjoy. Easy to prepare, easy to digest, and nutrient dense, quinoa is a simple, practical, and straightforward choice for everyone. The superfood has earned its place alongside hall-of-fame staples like kale, brown rice and broccoli. Quinoa's taste and texture will not disappoint: it is fluffy and lightweight with a nutty crunchiness that is perfect for salads or lightly cooked vegetables.

The Solution for Carb Cravings

Quinoa Plant
(Chenopodium quinoa)
Quinoa can help curb carb cravings and help you maintain a healthy weight. Often, carbohydrate and sugar cravings are protein cravings in disguise. If you crave carbs, make quinoa your first choice. Quinoa provides the satisfaction of carbohydrates, but also feeds your hidden protein craving.

Superfood for Vegetarians

Quinoa offers a compelling array of health benefits. It contains more protein (14% by mass) and fat than most grains which makes it an excellent alternative to white rice or refined carbohydrates, especially for vegetarians. Even NASA recognizes quinoa's haloed health status, proposing quinoa as the perfect food to take on extended space flights. It is no wonder that prices have tripled since 2006!

Nourishing After Illness

The simple and satisfying "pseduo-grain" known is especially attractive for those with weak digestion or recovering from illness. It is high in fiber, soothing to the digestive tract, and slightly cooling, relieving inflammatory conditions. Plus it is free of gluten, a common allergen found in wheat and other grains, which contributes to its digestibility and increasing popularity.

Blood Building

Quinoa is rich in iron, and restores strength to deficient blood. It contains more calcium than milk, and is rich in magnesium, phosphorus, strengthening kidney yang. Magnesium relaxes and nourishes the heart and muscles, while it promotes heart function.

About Quinoa

This extremely nutritious pseudo-grain was originally cultivated on the high plains of the South American Andes Mountains. Although the wide variety of health benefits is just beginning to be studied and appreciated by modern western countries, the ancient Incan empire revered the grain as sacred and honored it with the name chisaya mama or "mother of all grains". Actually, quinoa is a seed-like pseudo-grain, and is related to beets and chard. Because it is not a member of the grass family, it is even considered appropriate during Passover, when traditional grains are forbidden.
Recipes with Quinoa: Quinoa, Walnut & Date Warm Cereal
Recipes with Quinoa: Quinoa, Walnut & Date Warm Cereal

Buying & Preparation

There are many varieties of quinoa grown, but the most commonly available are white and red. Consider the white variety for a lighter, fluffier, and faster cooking alternative to brown rice. The red variety has a heartier feel, and slightly more pronounced flavor. It is delightful as a side dish to salmon or poultry dishes, and with summer vegetables, such as zucchinis and kale.

Soak for five minutes then strain before cooking in order to remove any residual bitter tasting saponins. Then prepare it just like rice--except it takes a fraction of the time! Combine two cups of filtered water for every cup of quinoa, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and continue to cook covered for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. When it is cooked, the outer germ surrounding the seed breaks open and tiny white coils appear. Remove from heat and let stand for five minutes, then fluff with a fork.

It is important not to overcook quinoa, as it will become soft and mushy. To add flavor before cooking, roast rinsed quinoa in a saucepan over low heat until all the water has evaporated and the grains emit a faint, roasted aroma. Quinoa may also be ground into flour, and is used to make gluten-free quinoa pasta. Because the coil of the quinoa gives it its own crunch, it complements crunchy food well. Quinoa goes well with chopped celery, raw onion, fresh parsley, fresh mint, or raw bell peppers. Its neutral flavor will never distract from added fresh herbs and spices.

Cooking Quinoa

Quinoa tabbouleh is just one example of the adaptability of this resourceful superfood. Try mixing quinoa into your favorite bean salad, pairing it with sliced avocado and crunchy bell peppers, or as a rice substitute with parboiled broccoli or kale. Quinoa is as versatile throughout the day as it is through the seasons. Take quinoa, warm milk or your favorite milk substitute; add a dash of cinnamon, a handful of sunflower seeds or almonds, and raisins or dried fruit for a warm breakfast cereal or a sweet afternoon snack. For patients recovering from illness, simple quinoa porridge helps revitalize and rejuvenate.

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Is Quinoa Good for My Ayurvedic Diet?

Find out by taking this free, easy quiz. You'll learn your body type, and whether 'Quinoa' is a good fit. Complete the basic quiz in 1 minute, or go deeper with additional quizzes at your own leisure to learn more about your body.

AYURVEDA'S GUIDE TO VITALITY & WHOLESOME NOURISHMENT

Your Ayurvedic diet is tailored to your individual body and your specific imbalances. With an Ayurvedic diet you feel joy and satisfaction because what you are eating truly nourishes and balances you. Disease results from diets and lifestyles that are incompatible with your nature. By eating a personalized diet matched to your body, you experience optimal health. See How it Works.

Metabolic Nature of Quinoa

See a complete list of all biocharacteristics.

METABOLIC NATURE

Metabolic Nature

Ayurveda assesses metabolic imbalances through 20 main biocharacteristics (gunas). Aggravating them weakens your body and causes imbalance. By knowing which biocharacteristics are habitually imbalanced in your body, you will be able to identify and correct metabolic imbalances before you get sick. Every biocharacteristic has an opposite which balances it (i.e. hot balances cold). You restore balance by favoring diet and lifestyle choices that increase the opposite biocharacteristic.

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EASY

ABOUT EASY BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Easy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly.

LEARN MORE ABOUT EASY

LIGHT

ABOUT LIGHT BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Lightness is identified by reduced weight.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIGHT

COLD

ABOUT COLD BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.

LEARN MORE ABOUT COLD

TASTES

The 6 Tastes

Taste is used to sense the most basic properties and effects of food. Each taste has a specific medicinal effect on your body. Cravings for food with certain tastes indicate your body is craving specific medicinal results from food. Taste is experienced on the tongue and represents your body's reaction to foods. Sweet taste causes physical satisfaction and attraction whereas bitter taste causes discomfort and aversion. Kapha should use less sweet taste while Vata and Pitta would benefit from using more sweet taste. One of the first signs of illness is that your taste and appetite for food changes. The six tastes are sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. Do you crave foods with any of the tastes below?

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SWEET

ABOUT SWEET BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Sweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SWEET

DOSHAS

The Three Doshas / Body Types

Ayurveda is a metabolic theory of medicine that explains individual health, tendencies, and disease patterns through the concept of doshas, which can be understood as your metabolic patterns and tendencies.

Each dosha reflects a distinct metabolic nature and describes strengths & weaknesses in bodily function, and how these affect energy levels, digestion, susceptibility to disease, and many other tendencies.

Your metabolic nature not only affects your physical characteristics, but also influences your mental thought patterns, confidence, and enthusiasm.

Ayurveda balances these metabolic strengths & weaknesses to support your body's vitality and prevent recurrent disease cycles. This support is a critical aid, especially in chronic or incurable disease conditions.

The 3 metabolic body types (doshas), are Catabolic (Vata), Metabolic (Pitta), and Anabolic (Kapha).

Through dosha, Ayurveda empowers people to identify metabolic imbalances early, break repetitive patterns of disease, and cultivate habits that support long-term vitality and well-being.

Ultimately, these metabolic patterns also provide a framework for understanding yourself, including body, mind, and spiritual tendencies.

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PACIFIES
Kapha pacifying Pitta pacifying Vata pacifying

GREEK MEDICINE / TEMPERAMENTS

The Four Temperaments / Humors

Ayurveda & Greek Medicine were the dominant form of medicine along the Silk Road from England to China and South Asia. They work by assessing your metabolic type, patterns, and nature. Greek medicine recognizes 4 metabolic temperaments, Melancholic, Choleric, Sanguine, and Phlegmatic.

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PACIFIES
CHOLERIC

ABOUT CHOLERIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Has a hot and dry metabolic nature. Enthusiastic, vibrant and bright. In excess burns up fluids and ojas, irritable. Corresponds to high bilirubin in the blood that irritates and heats up the body and liver.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHOLERIC

MELANCHOLIC

ABOUT MELANCHOLIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Cold and dry with a slow, variable or erratic metabolism. Colicky, tense. Withdrawn, pensive, anxious, and hesitant. Analytical, intelligent, detail oriented and creative. Prone to ojas depletion, dehydration, an overactive nervous system, and depression.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MELANCHOLIC

PHLEGMATIC

ABOUT PHLEGMATIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Wet & cold. When out of balance becomes congested, stagnant, and overweight. Loving, trusting, and patient.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PHLEGMATIC

SANGUINE

ABOUT SANGUINE BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Hot & moist. Full-blooded, vigorous. Vivacious, social, and epicurean. Bullish.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SANGUINE

Other

Blood Plasma Lymph

BLOOD-PLASMA-LYMPH

Plasma (Rasa Dhatu) includes plasma, white blood cells, and lymph.

SEE ALL 'BLOOD-PLASMA-LYMPH' FOODS / HERBS

,
Muscle

MUSCLE

Muscle tissue (Mamsa Dhatu) includes muscles and ligaments.

SEE ALL 'MUSCLE' FOODS / HERBS

Energy Vitality

ENERGY-VITALITY

Includes vitality improving foods, herbs, and exercises by dosha.

SEE ALL 'ENERGY-VITALITY' FOODS / HERBS

, Heart Circulation Blood, Kidney Bladder Urinary, Muscle Health, Weight Loss

Medicinal Benefits, Uses & Herbal Actions of Quinoa
Experiences are Personal
Experiences vary according to the person and constitution. Individual results may vary. The list of herbal-actions below has not be approved by the FDA and should not be used to treat a medical condition.

(see all)
Satisfies Stomach

STRONG SATISFIES-STOMACH

Provides a sense of gratification and fullness in the stomach.

SEE ALL 'SATISFIES-STOMACH' FOODS / HERBS

,
Builds Stamina

BUILDS-STAMINA

Promotes strength, endurance and resistance in the body. Rebuilds weak tissues after a time of depletion.

SEE ALL 'BUILDS-STAMINA' FOODS / HERBS

,
Nutritive

NUTRITIVE

An herb that is strengthening and nourishing.

SEE ALL 'NUTRITIVE' FOODS / HERBS

,
Tonic

TONIC

A tonic herb restores function through strengthening tissue. This can happen through a combination of nourishing the tissue, and invigorating tissue metabolism. The tonic should not be withering, as in caffeine.

SEE ALL 'TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Anti Inflammatory

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

Reduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.

SEE ALL 'ANTI-INFLAMMATORY' FOODS / HERBS

Blood Tonic

MILD BLOOD-TONIC

An herb that produces more blood cells in the body, or otherwise improves blood cell quality or hemoglobin content. Helpful for anemia and other types of deficiency.

SEE ALL 'BLOOD-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Kidney Tonic

KIDNEY-TONIC

An herb that strengthens the kidneys.

SEE ALL 'KIDNEY-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Muscle Tonic

MUSCLE-TONIC

Herbs that strengthen and tone muscle tissue. Helpful for people recovering from long term illness and debility, or after a sprain.

SEE ALL 'MUSCLE-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Constituents:
Betaine

STRONG BETAINE

Used to reduce homocysteine in the blood, which supports proper liver function and prevents fatigue and blood clots. Improves muscle stamina and weight loss.

SEE ALL 'BETAINE' FOODS / HERBS

, Carbohydrate, Folate,
Magnesium

MAGNESIUM

Helps muscles relax. Laxative.

SEE ALL 'MAGNESIUM' FOODS / HERBS

,
Phytates

PHYTATES

Phytates prevent absorption of nutrients. They are commonly found in all seeds, including nuts, grains, and beans. Sprouting greatly reduces phytate content, as well as long, slow cooking with vinegar.

SEE ALL 'PHYTATES' FOODS / HERBS

,
Saponins

SAPONINS

Can be used to make soap. Saponins stimulate mucus membrane secretion, liquefying mucus for easy removal (expectorant).

SEE ALL 'SAPONINS' FOODS / HERBS

, Soluble Fiber, Zinc

Foods with a Similar Nature to Quinoa

  • Stinging Nettles

    Stinging Nettles has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Kidney-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach

    LEARN MORE

  • Lamb

    Lamb has these Actions in Common

    Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina

    LEARN MORE

  • Pork

    Pork has these Actions in Common

    Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach

    LEARN MORE

  • Sesame Seeds

    Sesame Seeds has these Actions in Common

    Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive

    LEARN MORE

  • Tahini

    Tahini has these Actions in Common

    Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive

    LEARN MORE

  • Almonds

    Almonds has these Actions in Common

    Blood-tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Rabbit

    Rabbit has these Actions in Common

    Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Nutritive, Blood-tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Eggs

    Eggs has these Actions in Common

    Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina, Satisfies-stomach

    LEARN MORE

  • Beef

    Beef has these Actions in Common

    Blood-tonic, Satisfies-stomach, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Nutritive

    LEARN MORE

  • Sesame Oil

    Sesame Oil has these Actions in Common

    Muscle-tonic, Blood-tonic, Nutritive, Builds-stamina, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

Herbs & Supplements with a Similar Nature to Quinoa

  • Ashwagandha

    Ashwagandha has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Blood-tonic, Builds-stamina, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Bala

    Bala has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Builds-stamina, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Saw Palmetto

    Saw Palmetto has these Actions in Common

    Tonic, Anti-inflammatory, Kidney-tonic, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive

    LEARN MORE

  • Chyavanprash Nutritive Jam

    Chyavanprash Nutritive Jam has these Actions in Common

    Tonic, Anti-inflammatory, Blood-tonic, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive

    LEARN MORE

  • Eleuthero Ginseng

    Eleuthero Ginseng has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Blood-tonic, Builds-stamina, Muscle-tonic, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Punarnava

    Punarnava has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Blood-tonic, Builds-stamina, Kidney-tonic, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Bala Taila

    Bala Taila has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Ashwagandha Arishta

    Ashwagandha Arishta has these Actions in Common

    Builds-stamina, Muscle-tonic, Tonic, Blood-tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Almond Oil

    Almond Oil has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Oats, Fresh Milky Seed

    Oats, Fresh Milky Seed has these Actions in Common

    Blood-tonic, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Shatavari

    Shatavari has these Actions in Common

    Anti-inflammatory, Muscle-tonic, Nutritive, Tonic

    LEARN MORE

Quinoa Impact Statistics

In each study below, students from the Joyful Belly College of Ayurveda ate the selected food for 3 days and reported the effects. See other studies of food & herbs at Joyful Belly.

TEMPERATURE/CIRCULATION

How did Quinoa affect your temperature?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
6
15
5
0
Much colderSlightly colderSameSlightly warmerMuch warmer
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your ear temperature?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
24
2
HotterNo ChangeCooler
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your sweat quantity?

25
20
15
10
5
0
1
2
20
3
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your skin?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
1
0
22
Yellower/GreenerPalerRedderGrayerNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your tongue body?

25
20
15
10
5
0
3
1
0
22
PalerRedderBluerNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the swelling of your tongue body?

26
21
16
11
6
1
2
4
20
More SwellingLess SwellingNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your appetite/hunger?

15
12
9
6
3
0
4
11
7
4
0
Much less hungrySlightly less hungrySameSlightly hungrierMuch hungrier
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your digestion speed?

20
16
12
8
4
0
1
8
14
3
0
Much fasterSlightly fasterSameSlightly slowerMuch slower
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

TOXINS

How did Quinoa affect the amount of gas & bloating?

15
12
9
6
3
0
3
8
13
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your stool smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
21
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the thickness & size of your tongue coating?

20
16
12
8
4
0
2
8
16
0
0
Much smallerSlightly lessSameSlightly larger coatingMuch larger
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your tongue coating?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
1
2
3
20
YellowerBrownerGrayerWhiterNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your throat soreness?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
21
5
More soreNo ChangeLess sore
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your urine smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
21
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the amount of bubbles in your urine?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
3
23
0
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMany more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your sweat smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
22
1
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your acne?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
25
1
More acneNo ChangeLess acne
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your freckles/moles?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
26
0
DarkerNo ChangeLighter
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your sclera (white part of eye)?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
0
0
0
4
Redder/BloodshotYellowerGrayerBrownerWhiter
22
No Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of the lower eye lid?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
0
25
1
More green/dark greenMore purpleNo ChangeLess green/purple
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

HYDRATION

How did Quinoa affect your urine frequency/quantity?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
1
21
4
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the dryness of your skin?

25
20
15
10
5
0
3
1
22
DrierOilierNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the puffiness of lower eye lid?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
23
3
PuffierNo ChangeLess Puffy
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the cracks on your tongue?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
3
17
4
2
Larger/longer/more cracksSlightly moreSameSlightly less/smaller/shorterMuch less
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

FLUID-THICKNESS

How did Quinoa affect your ear pressure?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
24
2
More pressureNo ChangeLess pressure
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your congestion?

17
14
11
8
5
2
3
13
10
More congestionNo ChangeLess congestion
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the thickness of your mucous congestion?

22
18
14
10
6
2
3
16
7
More thickNo ChangeLess thick
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

NERVOUS-SYSTEM

How did Quinoa affect your energy levels?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
0
8
15
3
Much less energySlightly lessSameSlightly more energyMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your muscle tension?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
6
16
4
0
Much less tensionSlightly lessSameSlightly more tensionMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your anxiety?

20
16
12
8
4
0
1
8
15
2
0
Much less anxietySlightly lessSameSlightly more anxietyMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the stillness of your tongue?

25
20
15
10
5
0
7
19
0
More stillNo ChangeMore Trembling / Jittery
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

DIGESTION

How did Quinoa affect your digestion speed?

20
16
12
8
4
0
1
8
14
3
0
Much fasterSlightly fasterSameSlightly slowerMuch slower
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the amount of gas & bloating?

15
12
9
6
3
0
3
8
13
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your appetite/hunger?

15
12
9
6
3
0
4
11
7
4
0
Much less hungrySlightly less hungrySameSlightly hungrierMuch hungrier
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect burning sensations in digestive tract (do not include acid reflux)?

25
20
15
10
5
0
2
4
20
0
0
Much reliefSlight reliefSameSlightly more burningMuch more burning
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

TONGUE

How did Quinoa affect the color of your tongue coating?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
1
2
3
20
YellowerBrownerGrayerWhiterNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the swelling of your tongue body?

26
21
16
11
6
1
2
4
20
More SwellingLess SwellingNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the stillness of your tongue?

25
20
15
10
5
0
7
19
0
More stillNo ChangeMore Trembling / Jittery
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the thickness & size of your tongue coating?

20
16
12
8
4
0
2
8
16
0
0
Much smallerSlightly lessSameSlightly larger coatingMuch larger
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the cracks on your tongue?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
3
17
4
2
Larger/longer/more cracksSlightly moreSameSlightly less/smaller/shorterMuch less
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your tongue body?

25
20
15
10
5
0
3
1
0
22
PalerRedderBluerNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

STOOL

How did Quinoa affect your stool lightness?

15
12
9
6
3
0
0
10
13
3
0
Much lighterSlightly lighterSameSlightly darkerMuch darker
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your stool smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
21
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your stool consistency?

15
12
9
6
3
0
0
6
13
7
0
Much softerSlightly softerSameSlightly harderMuch harder
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your stool frequency/quantity?

20
16
12
8
4
0
1
2
16
7
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your stool color?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
1
3
0
22
More yellowMore grayMore greenMore orangeSame
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

URINE

How did Quinoa affect your urine clarity?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
21
5
More cloudySameMore clear
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your urine smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
21
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your urine lightness?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
5
21
0
0
Much lighterSlightly lighterSameSlightly DarkerMuch Darker
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your urine frequency/quantity?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
1
21
4
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the amount of bubbles in your urine?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
3
23
0
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMany more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

SWEAT

How did Quinoa affect your sweat quantity?

25
20
15
10
5
0
1
2
20
3
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your sweat smell?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
22
1
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

SKIN

How did Quinoa affect your freckles/moles?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
26
0
DarkerNo ChangeLighter
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your acne?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
25
1
More acneNo ChangeLess acne
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the dryness of your skin?

25
20
15
10
5
0
3
1
22
DrierOilierNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of your skin?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
3
1
0
22
Yellower/GreenerPalerRedderGrayerNo Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

EYE

How did Quinoa affect the color of your sclera (white part of eye)?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
0
0
0
4
Redder/BloodshotYellowerGrayerBrownerWhiter
22
No Change
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the color of the lower eye lid?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
0
25
1
More green/dark greenMore purpleNo ChangeLess green/purple
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect the puffiness of lower eye lid?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
23
3
PuffierNo ChangeLess Puffy
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

ENT

How did Quinoa affect the thickness of your mucous congestion?

22
18
14
10
6
2
3
16
7
More thickNo ChangeLess thick
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your ear temperature?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
24
2
HotterNo ChangeCooler
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your congestion?

17
14
11
8
5
2
3
13
10
More congestionNo ChangeLess congestion
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your ear pressure?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
24
2
More pressureNo ChangeLess pressure
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your throat soreness?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
21
5
More soreNo ChangeLess sore
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

SYSTEMIC

How did Quinoa affect your muscle tension?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
6
16
4
0
Much less tensionSlightly lessSameSlightly more tensionMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your anxiety?

20
16
12
8
4
0
1
8
15
2
0
Much less anxietySlightly lessSameSlightly more anxietyMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your temperature?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
6
15
5
0
Much colderSlightly colderSameSlightly warmerMuch warmer
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your energy levels?

20
16
12
8
4
0
0
0
8
15
3
Much less energySlightly lessSameSlightly more energyMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

HEART

How did Quinoa affect your heart pain/pressure/cramping?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
1
24
1
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your heart rate?

25
20
15
10
5
0
0
5
20
1
0
Much slowerSlightly slowerSameSlightly fasterMuch faster
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

How did Quinoa affect your heart rhythm?

30
24
18
12
6
0
0
23
3
More palpitationsSameLess palpitations
Total Responses: 26 Study ID:142 (2022-05-27 - 2023-06-12)

Joyful Belly is a recognized college of biocharacteristics medicine.

TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS

Quinoa may be beneficial for these symptoms. The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual. Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.

View other ingredients
for Spring

Quinoa is recommended for Spring. Check out these other Spring foods here.
VIEW ALL SPRING FOODS MORE FOODS FOR VATA / PITTA / KAPHA MAIN INGREDIENT PAGE

HOW DOES EATING AYURVEDICALLY MAKE YOU FEEL?

Eating Ayurvedically makes you feel nourished and energized. Food digests with ease when right for your body type (dosha). Healthy digestion is seen as the cornerstone of well-being in Ayurveda. Healthy digestion generally prevents illness. If you do get sick, a strong digestive fire reduces the severity of illness and increases your resilience. It also improves your mood. Once you begin eating Ayurvedically, you will feel refreshed, vital and strong.
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About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs the Joyful Belly College of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's hobbies & specialties include advanced digestive disorders, medieval Catholic philosophy, & botany. He holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. His wife and family of 7 kids live in Asheville, NC.

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Comments & Impressions of 'Quinoa'

Do you like 'quinoa'? Why or why not? What makes it unique? Is there something else you'd like to know about 'quinoa'?

(5.00 out of 5 stars) 6 ratings, 708 likes
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Jess Allen park, MI
2012-07-23
“I've read mixed charts on quinoa. Some say they're not good for Vata and Pitta, and others say good for Vata but not Pitta. Does it just depend on if it's rinsed or not?"
Marcella Huntington beach, CA
2013-05-01
“I am glad it is tridoshic! I love quinoa "
Shelly Paradis Virginia beach, VA
2014-03-28
“Did not think of having it for breakfast. Great idea! "
Eileen Viera, FL
2014-03-28
“I am Pitta and I use quinoa in tabbouleh to replace bulgur wheat. Also use organic quinoa flakes as my breakfast cereal, sometimes simply heating 1 cup almond or coconut milk on medium heat to a boil then adding 1/3 cup flakes and stirring for 30 seconds, taking off heat for 4 mins until thickened and sweetening with maple syrup (also good for Pitta). I also use quinoa flakesto thicken soups, coating whatever I bake and using in patties instead of rolled oats. It is so versatile! Switching to quinoa has lessened my ravenous hunger and I find Food cravings have lessened. The added bonus is that I have lost a lot of belly fat."
Mag Lake mary, FL
2015-05-21
“I have read in other Ayerveda books that Quinoa is not good for Pitta because it is pungent and heating. But it is the only grain I digest well. I am a little confused. How are food qualities determined and why are there so many different lists out there?"
Natalie Immel Asheville, NC
2015-05-22
“Mag - I think people have different opinions on the energetics of foods because they often use their own bodies to discover the qualities of a food, and each body reacts differently to a food based on the qualities. So, for a strongly pitta person, quinoa might feel pungent because pitta people are already "pungent" but it might not feel that way to another person. But, if you are having trouble digesting grains, then you may have an underlying digestive balance and working with a practitioner may help you discover what is really going on below the surface. It also is a seed, not a grain, so that may be why you digest it well!"
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information and products on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.