Nutraceutical and functional properties of the andean grain amaranthus caudatus L

Abstract

A nutraceutical is a naturally occurring food compound marketed as a dietary supplement in a dosage form. This compound may possess beneficial health effects when administrated in higher quantities than those present in food. Moreover, when consumed as part of the diet in recommended amounts for daily intake, a functional food provides an adequate nutritional effect and contributes to health improvement or reduces the risk of disease (Luengo 2007). In this context, due to its characteristic protein composition with a unique qualitative and quantitative protein profile and its appealing pharmacological properties, Amaranthus caudatus is currently considered an appealing nutraceutical, functional food and drug candidate. Worldwide interest in amaranth (A. caudatus) began in the 1980s, mainly favored by a recognition endorsed by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. Then, amaranth was included among the world’s most promising crops due to its nutritional value (National Research Council 1984)