What is Sacha Inchi ?
Sacha Inchi commonly known as sacha peanut, mountain peanut, Inca nut or Inca-peanut.
This plant is native to South America and has been cultivated by indigenous peoples for hundreds of years.
It´s considered one of the world’s most powerful super foods because of its high levels of antioxidants and essential fats.
Benefits of Sacha Inchi
1. High in Protein
One of the main benefits of sacha inchi is that is is extremely high in protein. Protein is important in a wide range of bodily functions, from building muscle to repairing tissue to regulating hormones.
2. High in Essential Fatty Acids
(Omega 3,6,9)
Sacha inchi is also high in fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acid, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-9 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids can’t be produced by the body and must be consumed through your diet. They have a variety of important functions in the body
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Form a vital part of cell membranes
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Treatment of mild to moderate depression
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Improves heart health
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Supports health weight management
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Shown to reduce inflammation
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Supports infant brain development
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Promotes brain health
Omega-6 fatty acids are also essential to the body, In fact, they have similar properties to those of omega-3 fatty acids. They have a variety of important functions in the body
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Shown to reduce nerve pain
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Supports bone health
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Shown to decrease blood pressure
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Shown to lower heart disease risk
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Shown to help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Omega-9 (MUFA) fatty acids aren’t “essential” fatty acids, but they’re still a great addition to a healthy diet.
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Shown to reduce cardiovascular disease risk
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Acts as a substitute in case of low levels of Omega 3 and 6.
3. Good source of “Complete” Protein
Sacha inchi contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a “complete” protein.
Sacha inchi is a great replacement for animal protein and makes getting all the nutrients you need on a plant-based diet a no-brainer.
4. Sustainable
Sacha Inchi can grow in forested areas, so producing sacha inchi as a crop can help to encourage reforestation and protect the rain forest.
5. Help protect again Cardiovascular diseases
Studies have shown that sacha inchi may be able to protect against cardiovascular disease. This is because of its high essential fatty acid content.
6. Help lower blood pressure & Cholesterol
According to a recent study, consuming sacha inchi oil may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure and cholesterol.
Participants who consumed sacha inchi oil for four months were observed to have lower levels of “bad” cholesterol and lower arterial blood pressure.
In addition, participants had higher levels of healthy “good cholesterol.
7. Improves insulen sensitivity
Sacha inchi has been shown to help with insulin sensitivity.
This means that after you consume a heavy meal, Sacha inchi can help you to digest your food and absorb important nutrients after eating.
8. Contains Vitamin A & Vitamin E
Sacha inchi is also high in Vitamin A and Vitamin E.
Vitamin A has a wealth of important benefits, including protecting your eyesight, strengthening your bones, and promoting healthy growth and reproduction.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect cells from harmful free radicals, boost the immune system, and ward off degenerative disease.
9. Contains Neuroprotective Properties
Sacha inchi can boost your brainpower! It contains neuroprotective properties
that can help to reduce the brain’s vulnerability to acute injuries such as strokes and spinal cord injuries.
Sacha inchi has also been shown to improve mental health, and may help to reduce the symptoms of depression.
While studies concerning the mental benefits of this unique ingredient are still ongoing, it’s safe to say that this powerful little nut is great for your brain.
10. Can help fill you up
Because it is so high in both protein and beneficial fatty acids,
Sacha inchi can help to fill you up and make sure that you’re not still craving snacks even after you’ve finished a plant-based meal
11. Reduces Inflammation
Sacha inchi contains essential fatty acids that can help to reduce inflammation and soothe pain.
Inflammation is a sign that the body is fighting off injury or illness.
Sacha inchi can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain caused by chronic inflammatory conditions.
Just one thing
Try to blend sacha inchi protein powder with favorite smoothie ingredients for a wholesome drink for breakfast or refueling after a workout.
Tasty ideas include a banana, a frozen strawberries, a cup of plant-based milk, and a tablespoon of sacha inchi nut butter.
Reference :https://22daysnutrition.com/, https://www.htc.co.uk/