Teff Grain Health Benefits
While teff is a seed and not actually a grain at all, it can be used in many of the same ways. Also, it boasts a few nutritional advantages that aren’t found in a lot of other grains as well as some universal wholegrain benefits. It’s worth asking why teff is all of the sudden surfacing as a healthy option. Teff is not new but has been relatively unknown in developing countries until now. But now that it has our full attention, we’re noticing things that make it a nice addition to a healthy diet .
1. Promotes Growth
With eight different amino acids, including a slightly rare one called lysine, teff can deliver substantial support for growth and development. Our bodies need protein to create new cells, repair old ones, and general development throughout our lives. While animal proteins can be helpful, our bodies can more easily break down vegetable proteins into their constituent amino acids, which is why having something like teff in your diet is important for everyone, not just vegetarians and health food fans.
2. Celiac Support
As the amount of people suffering from Celiac disease continues to rise, it will be important to have alternative options to gluten-containing foods. Celiac disease (gluten intolerance) can be very painful and dangerous for people who suffer from it, which is why gluten-free options like teff grain, particularly since it’s so nutrient-dense, make for healthy, delicious options for people avoiding gluten.
3. Healthy Bones
Teff contains a wide range of minerals and nutrients, but in terms of calcium, it is truly impressive. Calcium is an essential mineral for bone growth and development, and helps contribute to solid bone mineral density as we age. If you are susceptible to osteoporosis (perhaps due to lifestyle) or have a lack of calcium in your diet, than adding teff can help protect your bone integrity as you age.
4. Stronger Immune System
Although most grains have a wealth of minerals, they aren’t as well known for having a significant level of vitamins, particularly of vitamin C. As you probably know, vitamin C is a crucial part of our immune system, as it stimulates the production and activity of white blood cells. However, vitamin C is also a key component in collagen, which is needed for the creation of new cells, blood vessels, organs, and muscle tissue. Together with the high protein content of teff grain, the vitamin C found in this useful dietary staple can have a significant impact on your overall health.
5. Increased Circulation
Speaking of minerals, the most unusually high mineral content comes in the form of iron. In fact, teff is commonly recommended for patients suffering from anemia. Iron is a key element in our red blood cells, and when there is an iron deficiency in the body, weakness, dizziness, cognitive impairment, muscle cramps, and headaches can often follow (these are symptoms of anemia). If you want to boost your circulation and increase oxygenation to important organ systems and areas of your body, then add some teff grain or injera bread to your diet immediately!
6. Diabetes Control
One of the side benefits that is often overlooked from teff grain is its ability to help diabetics manage their condition. By helping to slow the release of insulin into the bloodstream, teff can help diabetics prevent the dangerous spikes and plunges that can occur if you aren’t careful. This is partially due to the fiber content of teff grain, but there are more complex chemical pathways also at work in this regard, although research is still in the relatively early stages.
