FUNCTIONAL AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PSEUDOCEREALS: QUINOA, BUCKWHEAT, AND AMARANTH
Keywords:
Pseudocereals, quinoa, buckwheat, amaranth, bioactive compounds, therapeutic potential, functional foodAbstract
Pseudocereals are plant species that, despite not belonging to the Poaceae family, exhibit nutritional characteristics similar to true cereals in terms of macro- and micronutrient composition. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), and amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) have gained significant attention due to their gluten-free nature, rich profiles of functional constituents, and promising health benefits. These crops provide high-quality proteins, essential amino acids, dietary fiber, and a wide variety of phytochemicals such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, tocopherols, and saponins. Numerous studies have demonstrated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic activities of these compounds. Pseudocereals may contribute to reducing oxidative stress, preventing free radical damage, modulating immune responses, and maintaining glucose homeostasis. Their low glycemic index supports improved insulin sensitivity and offers benefits in both the prevention and dietary management of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, their vascular-protective and lipid-regulating properties highlight their potential role in cardiovascular health. This review evaluates the nutritional composition, functional constituents, and potential therapeutic effects of quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth based on recent scientific evidence. The findings suggest that these crops should be considered not only alternative agricultural resources but also valuable complementary components within modern medical nutrition strategies, contributing to long-term health promotion and the prevention of chronic metabolic disorders.
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