There’s some media buzz building about yet another re-discovered Peruvian super-food that researchers say is packed with protein, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, plus a libido booster similar to — if not more powerful than — Maca.
Quinoa is the best-known of the “Inca grains” that have grown in popularity thanks to its high level of protein (between 12% and 18%) and other nutrients like magnesium, iron and phosphorous. It’s not strictly a grain, but a relative of spinach and Swiss chard, so it’s also gluten-free. Quinoa is popular among vegetarians and vegans for its protein kick, and is a kosher replacement for rice and wheat during Passover.
Maca is climbing the charts as a nutritional supplement and super food. It’s been called everything from “nature’s Viagra” to Peruvian ginseng, and when taken in powdered form it’s been shown to increase libido, reduce the risk of prostate cancer and improve sperm count for men, and alleviate period pain and increase fertility for women. It does so without directly raising hormone levels
