Protein from Amaranth Grain or Quinoa
JP,
Not sure, but the high cellulose content might make it a debatable source of protein for anyone, let alone RNY patients. Sure, the protein is there, but you've got to wonder if it can be extracted or it just remains bound to the fiber. My guess is that most of it would go through undigested.
That has always been a question I've had: In the case of protein drinks and other supplements, does fiber help us to absorb, by helping the small intesting "slow down" the passing through of the nutrients, aiding digestion or is its presence an obstacle to their absorption. I don't recall ever seeing an answer to this.
Hope this Helps,
Dave
Jp, I don’t know about the Amaranth, but my sister is a big fan of the Quinoa. (She’s a Nutri-Geek, in South Texas, all organic and such.) (I think she started using it to get "back in touch" with our Native American Roots) I’ve had it at her place a few times at first, and now she sends me a few boxes of it often as well. I’ve only used the "Pre-Rinsed" version… (It comes a few different forms of readiness, I’m told) Looks like a brick-red version of a cross between Cous-cous and rice. It has a high protein content- (12 to 18%) And is a "complete protein," with all of the essential amino acids not lacking the lysine like wheat or rice. Has good fiber content and phosphorus, iron and magnesium. It’s gluten free and easy to digest. It tastes like a cross between rice and bulgar wheat, And there’s a little nut flavor sort of like a tiny bit of pecans in the mix. I use it in a "Dirty Rice" recipe- some fried sausage-(drained/rinsed) Sautéed in with some chopped onion, red and green pepper, celery, and Cajun seasoning. Awesome stuff. Goes great with pinto or black beans… I haven’t looked to buy it local, but I’ve heard that Whole Foods and such places carry it as a standard. All I know….. Best Wishes- Dx
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