The Ministry of Health recommended on May 2 the consumption of Andean grains such as quinoa, kiwicha, and cañihua to strengthen the body and maintain strong defenses during the winter season. These foods are suggested for all stages of life, including childhood, older adulthood, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Iván Gómez Sánchez, a nutritionist at the National Institute of Health under the Ministry of Health, said these grains should be included in daily diets because they are rich in high-quality nutrients that help support health during colder months when good nutrition is important.
Gómez Sánchez said that Andean grains provide sustained energy due to their slow-absorbing carbohydrates. He also noted their significant fiber content helps digestive function. “They are complete foods that help face winter with more energy and better health,” Gómez Sánchez said. He added that these foods are especially ideal for children, older adults, and people with low immunity.
The press release explained that these products contain B vitamins as well as minerals like iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and zinc—nutrients essential for bone health, immune system support and anemia prevention. The biological value of their proteins is similar to animal-based foods such as milk or eggs.
Andean grains can be consumed in various ways including hot soups or porridges or even ground into flour for easier digestion. For quinoa specifically it is recommended to wash it thoroughly before cooking to remove bitterness while preserving its nutritional value.
According to Gómez Sánchez combining Andean grains with other foods can help meet requirements for essential amino acids and improve overall protein quality in meals.
