What are the health benefits of Kamut?
Kamut is a type of wheat that has gained popularity in the health food industry due to its unique nutritional profile and delicious nutty flavor. In this article, we will explore the research behind kamut and its potential health benefits.
What is Kamut?
Kamut, also known as Khorasan wheat, is an ancient grain that is believed to have originated in Egypt. Kamut is genetically different from modern wheat and has larger grains, giving it a distinctive taste and texture. It is commonly used as an alternative to wheat flour and can be found in pasta, bread, and cereal.
Nutritional Profile
Kamut is highly nutritious and contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One cup (185 grams) of cooked kamut contains approximately:
- 251 calories
- 2.5 grams of fat
- 11.3 grams of protein
- 6.7 grams of fiber
- 55 grams of carbohydrates
- 1.9 milligrams of manganese
- 4.5 milligrams of zinc
- 2.8 milligrams of iron
- 55 micrograms of selenium
- 151 milligrams of magnesium
- 428 milligrams of phosphorus
- 80 milligrams of calcium
- 1.1 milligrams of vitamin E
- 0.5 milligrams of thiamin
- 0.2 milligrams of riboflavin
- 2.8 milligrams of niacin
- 0.4 milligrams of vitamin B6
- 24 micrograms of folate
Kamut is also rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, which can help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Health Benefits of Kamut
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May Lower Cholesterol
Several studies have found that eating kamut may help lower cholesterol levels. In one study, participants who ate kamut bread for eight weeks saw a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to those who ate wheat bread. Another study found that consuming kamut flakes for seven weeks led to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels.
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May Help Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural process that helps the body heal, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Kamut is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. A study found that consuming kamut for eight weeks led to reductions in several markers of inflammation, including CRP and TNF-alpha.
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May Improve Digestive Health
Kamut is a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health. Fiber helps keep the digestive system moving and can prevent constipation. Additionally, the fiber in kamut can help feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can have a positive impact on overall digestive health.
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May Help Control Blood Sugar
Kamut is a whole grain, which means it contains all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which can help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and may be helpful for individuals with diabetes.
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May Help Prevent Cancer
Kamut is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer. Polyphenols, a type of antioxidant found in kamut, have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. In one study, researchers found that polyphenols extracted from kamut inhibited the growth of human breast cancer cells.
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May Help Boost Heart Health
Several studies have found that eating kamut may help improve heart health. In one study, participants who consumed kamut flakes for seven weeks saw significant reductions in blood pressure compared to those who ate wheat flakes. Another study found that consuming kamut for eight weeks led to a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
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May Improve Immune Function
Kamut is rich in selenium, a mineral that is important for immune function. Selenium helps the body produce cytokines, which are proteins that regulate the immune system. Additionally, selenium has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect against chronic diseases.
Conclusion
Kamut is a delicious and nutritious ancient grain with a variety of health benefits. It is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and a range of vitamins and minerals. Eating kamut has been associated with reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol levels, improving digestive health, controlling blood sugar, preventing cancer, boosting heart health, and improving immune function. Adding kamut to your diet can be a simple way to increase the nutritional quality of your meals and promote overall health.