Teff is one of the most nutritious alternative grains in the world. It offers calcium, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. It’s a great source of energy, protects bone health, and provides long-lasting satiation that can even help to support weight loss efforts.
Compared with wheat, teff is higher in nutrients and easier on digestion, mainly because it is absent of gluten. If you take a close look, you’ll see just how this nutritional powerhouse can support your health. Teff is native to Ethiopia and the surrounding region. If you are interested in cooking with this delicious, hearty grain, here are some of the health benefits you may want to know about.
Calcium is an important nutrient for bone health, but did you also know that it can help relieve PMS symptoms? A number of studies have suggested that women who supplement with calcium have lower incidences of severe PMS symptoms than those who do not.
Did you know that teff flour contains five times as much fiber as wheat flour? "One ounce of teff flour contains about five grams of fiber, compared to all-purpose wheat flour which only contains 1 gram," explains the Global Healing Center.
Fiber is beneficial for good health, as it moves through the digestive tract and helps clear out accumulated waste, food, and toxins. It promotes digestive regularity as well as nutrient absorption, making it a vital component of a healthy diet.
Speaking of fiber, did you know that fiber is one of the most important building blocks of any weight loss program?
In fact, a research paper published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that making only one dietary change—increasing the amount of fiber in your diet—can result in effective weight loss.
The protein content of teff is higher in amino acids in comparison to other grains, especially lysine. While teff isn't quite a complete source of protein, the amino acids are great for supporting energy levels. Teff is considered a whole grain, so its carbohydrates are slowly broken down into glucose for steady assimilation into cells. This means that, compared with refined grains, teff may help support energy without the crashes experienced following the consumption of refined carbohydrates.