RESEARCH

There has been extensive research done on buckwheat, from its composition to the health benefits it may offer, we now know a great deal about this emerging superfood. Buckwheat grain contains many nutrients, including protein, lipids, dietary fiber, and a wide array of vitamins and minerals. The most prominent vitamins and minerals found in buckwheat are manganese, copper, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus. These nutrients are important for ensuring your body functions normally and at optimum health.

About 20% of women and 3% of men do not consume enough iron in their diet. Both iron and copper work together to produce red blood cells and help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Without enough iron, it is possible to develop an iron deficiency and anemia, a condition which leads to weakness, dizziness, and body aches. Buckwheat also contains Magnesium, another essential nutrient for maintaining cardiovascular health and warding off heart disease.

Buckwheat is rich in two particularly important nutrients, phosphorus and manganese. Both of these essential minerals play an important role in the growth and maintenance of bones and tissues. Manganese also plays a strong role in metabolism and regulating blood glucose levels. Studies have suggested that manganese may influence your susceptibility towards type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis.

Lipids and proteins are also found in buckwheat and considered to be macronutrients, which means that your body needs to consume large quantities of them. These nutrients are broken down and used to make many structures in your body, such as tissues, bones, and cartilage. Fiber is another nutrient prominent in buckwheat. Fiber helps you maintain a healthy digestive track. Not only does fiber help relieve constipation, but it has also been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers found in the digestive track and help control blood sugar levels. Fiber is also used in weight loss as studies have shown it reduces appetite and increases satisfaction.

Buckwheat is known as a functional food. This means the health benefits of consuming buckwheat goes beyond its basic nutritional value. Buckwheat may have a positive effect on controlling diabetes, cholesterol, and inflammation, as well as deterring cancer. Compounds found in buckwheat can potentially help control diabetes and high blood pressure in humans. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that the consumption of buckwheat successfully reduced glucose levels.

A study published in Lung Cancer found that the consumption of a variety of foods, including buckwheat, was associated with reducing the risk of lung cancer. Buckwheat has been found to be rich in antioxidants, compounds thought to protect your cells and prevent damages that may lead to cancer. This is why buckwheat has been attributed anticancer properties, antioxidants may also account for many of the health benefits found in buckwheat.