1 – Teff, which is grown in Ethiopia and used to make injera (the sourdough flatbread), is a small grain with a long list of health benefits. Teff Grain.
2 – Teff is also known to reduce PMS symptoms and help you lose weight, and it’s ideal for vegetarians looking for sources of protein.
3 – Teff (Eragrostis tef) is the only fully-domesticated member of the genus Eragrostis (lovegrass). Its name is often assumed to be related to the word “lost” in Amharic – because of the tiny size (less than 1mm diameter – similar to a poppy seed) of its seeds.
This tiny size, in fact, makes teff ideally suited to semi-nomadic life in areas of Ethiopia and Eritrea where it has long thrived. A handful of teff is enough to sow a typical field, and it cooks quickly, using less fuel than other foods. Teff also thrives in both waterlogged soils and during droughts, making it a dependable staple wherever it’s grown. No matter what the weather, teff crops will likely survive, as they are also relatively free of plant diseases compared to other cereal crops. Due to its lack of gluten, can be used without any worry by celeacs and gluten-sensitives. It is also free of phytic acid; an acid that prevents absorption of important nutrients.
Teff is the smallest grain in the world and comes in colors ranging from white to dark red, which amongst others determines its flavor; light colored teff has a chestnut-like flavor, the darker variety has an earth like, hazelnut flavor.
Calcium: Prevents weight gain and promotes fat burn, soothes PMS complaints, is associated with the prevention of colorectal, ovarian and breast cancers, promotes heart health, regulates muscle contraction/relaxation and is an important nutrient in bone and dental health, especially for women in their menopause, decreasing the risk of developing osteoporosis.
Copper: Has anti-inflammatory properties, protects skeletal, nervous and cardiovascular systems, protects against early graying of dark-colored hair, plays an important role in collagen synthesis, which is crucial to skin elasticity, prevents premature ageing, promotes brain health, helps to absorb iron and utilize sugar, is crucial for energy production, ensure proper functioning of thyroid glands, produces red blood cells, ensures better wound healing, reduces cholesterol and catalyzes reactions to nervous system functioning.
Thiamin/Vitamin B1: Thiamins plays an important role in maintaining a healthy nervous and cardiovascular functioning of the body, helps to converse carbohydrates for energy production and breaks down fats and protein. At the same time it maintains muscle tone, which is especially important for those that carry out a cardio workout regularly. Thiamin furthermore promotes digestive tract , healthy skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver. Thiamin is also known as an “anti-stress” vitamin.
Barium: According to alternative medicine. Barium benefits the body by strengthening the immune system and improve digestion, treating symptoms of stress or anxiety.
Phosphorous: Improves digestion and excretion of toxins, energizes, regulates and balances hormones, thereby i.e. relieving menopausal and PMS symptoms, promotes bone and dental health, produces protein (repairs tissue) and improves concentration and mental activities.
Immune System (Teff Grain)
Although most grains have a wealth of minerals. They aren’t as well known for having a significant level of vitamins, particularly of vitamin C. As you probably know, vitamin C is a crucial part of our immune system. As it stimulates the production and activity of white blood cells. However, vitamin C is also a key component in collagen. Which is needed for the creation of new cells, blood vessels, organs, and muscle tissue. Together with the high protein content of teff grain. The vitamin C found in this useful dietary staple can have a significant impact on your overall health.
Speaking of minerals, the most unusually high mineral content comes in the form of iron. In fact, teff is commonly recommended for patients suffering from anemia. Iron is a key element in our red blood cells, and when there is an iron deficiency in the body. Weakness, dizziness, cognitive impairment, muscle cramps, and headaches can often follow (these are symptoms of anemia).
One of the side benefits that is often overlooked from teff grain is its ability to help diabetics manage their condition. By helping to slow the release of insulin into the bloodstream. Teff can help diabetics prevent the dangerous spikes and plunges that can occur if you aren’t careful. This is partially due to the fiber content of teff grain.
If you’re diabetic, you might want to consider adding teff to your diet to control blood sugar levels. Teff contains approximately 20 to 40 per cent resistant starches. And has a relatively low glycemic index (GI) that can help diabetics better regulate their sugar levels.
Teff grain has been used for thousands of years as a laxative. Or at least a means to speed up the digestive process. This is likely due to the high content of dietary fiber in the grain, which can bulk up stool. Stimulate peristaltic motion, and increase the regularity and quality of your bowel movements. Dietary fiber is also able to balance cholesterol levels in the body by eliminating excess omega-6 fatty acids. In addition to relieving constipation, bloating, cramping, and more serious gastrointestinal issues.