Valor nutricional y biológico del amaranto variedad Amaranthus Caudatus L. (kiwicha)

Abstract

Kiwicha, scientifically known as Amaranthus caudatus L. is a variety of amaranth whose leaves, stems and shoots can be used for different purposes. It is considered one of the most complete ancient Andean pseudocereals with functional food characteristics. Its nutritional richness in macro and micronutrient content such as protein with a percentage of a 13,4 much higher compared to other pseudocereals such as quinoa and cereals such as rice and corn; it contains all the essential amino acids, each one of vital importance for the correct functioning of the organism. Carbohydrates stand out as major nutrients with a percentage value of 65.25; within this group are the reducing and non-reducing sugars, soluble and insoluble fiber whose main action is to take care of digestion. Regarding lipids, omegas 3 and 9 stand out for their role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. In relation to micronutrients, it contains minerals such as Iron (Fe), Magnesium (Mg), Phosphorus (P) and Manganese (Mn), whose content satisfies the intake recommendations; and water and fat-soluble vitamins, which take care of the skin, heart, and other organs. Its biological properties include antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, anticholesterolemic, among other activities, which provide valuable health benefits to consumers by preventing and reducing the development of chronic non-transmissible diseases. Despite of being a complete food matrix, it is little known and consumed, that is why this bibliographic review provides qualitative and quantitative data of its components to disseminate them and promote their intake.