Quinoa is a seed that’s prepared and eaten like a grain, while rice is a traditional grain. Its health benefits are similar to those of brown rice. Both are a gluten-free source of fiber and essential minerals.

There was a time rice was the only grain in town. Not anymore.

Quinoa has emerged as a healthy alternative. It has already taken rice’s place in many recipes.

But if you love rice, the news isn’t all bad. Both grains have health benefits.

What is quinoa?
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You could argue that comparing quinoa with rice isn’t fair, because quinoa isn’t actually a grain. It’s the seed of the goosefoot plant and a relative of beets and spinachTrusted Source.

But quinoa is known as a pseudocereal because it’s cooked and eaten like a grain and has a similar nutritional profile.

The benefits of quinoa

  • It’s a complete protein.
  • It’s high in fiber.
  • It’s high in minerals.
What are the health benefits of quinoa?

Quinoa is nutrient-rich and has significant health benefits, including:

It’s a complete protein

For such a tiny seed, quinoa has a lot of protein: One cup cooked has 8 gramsTrusted Source. Quinoa is one of the few plant sources of complete protein. This means it contains all nine of the essential amino acids your body needs. Even so, quinoa is higher in calories than other protein sources.

It’s gluten-free

Quinoa is naturally gluten-free. Keep in mind that some brands may become cross-contaminated with other grains such as wheat during processing. If you have celiac disease or you’re sensitive to gluten, only use brands that are certified gluten-free.

It’s high in fiber

One cup of quinoa contains 5 grams of dietary fiberTrusted Source, which is more than white or brown rice. Fiber helps prevent constipation, helps control blood sugar levels, and may help lower cholesterol. Fiber also helps you maintain a healthy weight by making you feel fuller longer, so you’re less likely to overeat.

It’s high in minerals

Quinoa is a great source of:

  • iron
  • magnesium
  • phosphorus
  • manganese
  • zinc

It also contains calcium, potassium, and selenium.

It may be good for your gut

Quinoa may help protect your gastrointestinal tract. Both in vitroTrusted Source and animal studiesTrusted Source have shown that quinoa acts as a prebiotic, enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria

The benefits of rice

  • It’s easy to digest.
  • Brown rice is high in fiber.
  • Brown rice may help reduce blood pressure.
What are the health benefits of rice?
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Rice is a staple for people all over the world. It comes in many colors and sizes, but the two most popular types are white rice and brown rice. White rice is the most processed of the two. Its husk, bran, and much of the germ has been removed.

Many brands of white rice are enriched with thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, and iron to restore the nutrients lost during processing. The husks are removed from brown rice, but the nutrient-rich bran and germ remain.

White and brown rice are low in fat and sodium. They are free of cholesterol and trans fats. Other health benefits include:

It’s naturally gluten-free

Like quinoa, rice is a great option if you’re on a gluten-free diet. Beware of flavored rice or the rice used in sushi, they may contain gluten.

It’s a good source of minerals

Brown rice is a great source of:

  • phosphorous
  • manganese
  • selenium
  • magnesium

It contains lesser amounts of copper, calcium, and zinc.

It’s easy to digest

White rice is known for being easy on the tummy. It’s part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast). This is a bland food dietTrusted Source that is sometimes suggested after you have vomiting or diarrhea.