Lowers Cholesterol
Coronary heart disease develops when the excess cholesterol and fats from the blood begin to accumulate on the interior walls of the arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the heart. When the arteries harden and narrow from excessive plaque buildup, it leads to atherosclerosis.
LDL cholesterol, which accumulates along the artery walls, is a significant contributor to atherosclerosis. In addition, white blood cells that are supposed to clear away the buildup can also become stuck, which adds to the problem. Quinoa and other foods that lower LDL cholesterol slows the progression of atherosclerosis and lower the risk of developing congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, and heart attacks.
The soluble fiber in quinoa combines with bile acids from the liver to form a jelly-like substance excreted in bowel movements. The liver uses some of its stored cholesterol to produce bile acids. As these reserves run low, the liver draws cholesterol from the blood to replenish them. As a result, the total cholesterol level and amount of LDL, or bad cholesterol, decrease in the blood. Quinoa is a heart-healthy substitute for meat and other protein sources high in saturated fats, which can raise blood cholesterol.
