‘Buckwheat’- this name might suggest that it is a type of cereal similar to wheat. But buckwheat has no connection with grain whatsoever.
It is a fruit seed that is closely related to rhubarb, sorrel, and knotweed. These grain-like seeds have a unique triangular shape and have the same size as wheat kernels.
To make them edible, their outer hull has to be removed with the help of special milling equipment. Its colour varies from tannish pink to brown. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
Just like wheat, buckwheat also can be ground into flour and can be a suitable substitute for corn in the case of those who are gluten intolerant as buckwheat is gluten-free.
The darker form of buckwheat is more nutritious. Buckwheat flowers attract bees that use them to produce a strongly flavoured dark honey.
Buckwheat is available in roasted and unroasted ways. The roasted way is also known as ‘kasha’ which is widely used in traditional European dishes.
In the United States, it is commonly used in porridges and pancakes. The unroasted, whole buckwheat kernels are known as buckwheat grains or hulled buckwheat. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
Health Benefits of Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a powerhouse of nutrients. Being gluten-free, it can be an excellent substitute for wheat, rye, barley, and oats.
It is thus considered suitable for those who are allergic to wheat and celiac patients. It has a high content of fibre and protein, and significant amounts of iron and magnesium.
Besides, it contains all the eight essential amino acids. Buckwheat is also packed with phytonutrients, which are fantastic disease-fighting organic components.
The several health benefits of buckwheat can be attributed to its amazing nutritional profile. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
1. Aids in Weight Loss
Whole-grain buckwheat can be beneficial in weight loss. Buckwheat has fewer calories in comparison to wheat or barley. It is free of saturated fat and cholesterol and rich in dietary fibre and protein.
This combination plays a vital role in suppressing appetite, controlling blood sugar, facilitating proper digestion, and building lean muscle mass. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
2. Diabetic-friendly
Buckwheat is an ideal food for diabetic patients. Buckwheat contains a medicinal chemical that strengthens capillary walls and reduces bleeding, thus lowering the risk of fatal strokes and heart attacks in people with high blood pressure and diabetes. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
It improves microvascular integrity and circulation in diabetics, thus preventing the damage of nerves and muscle cells and loss of kidney function.
D-chiro-inositol is a compound that is deficient in type II diabetic patients. This compound is required for proper conduction of insulin for controlling and treating type II diabetes.
Buckwheat also contains D-chiro-inositol. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
3. Reduces Blood Pressure
Buckwheat is a good source of magnesium, which is instrumental in improving blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure naturally without the use of harmful chemicals. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
4. Protection Against Breast Cancer
Research has proved that eating a diet rich in fibre from whole grains such as buckwheat reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Pre-Menopausal women eating wholegrain fibre are at a lower risk of developing breast cancer. The antioxidant properties of buckwheat are used as an antidote for x-ray irradiators.
The antioxidants, lignans play an essential role in estrogen reception and hence, are beneficial for women during or after their menopause.
The plant lignans are converted into mammalian lignans in the intestines. One of this called enterolactone is believed to protect against breast cancer and other forms of cancer-related to hormones. Buckwheat Flour is also used for diabetes treatment.
