Progress in research on the effects of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) bioactive compounds and products on intestinal flora.

ABSTRACT

Quinoa is a highly nutritious whole-grain crop with unique values as both a food and medicinal supplement. At present, the roles played by the intestinal microflora in human health are gaining considerable attention from the research community, and studies to date have shown that the occurrence of a range of diseases may be associated with an imbalance of the intestinal flora. The bioactive compounds of quinoa affect the production of SCFAs and the adjustment of intestinal pH. In this article, we review the mechanisms underlying the effects of different quinoa constituents on the intestinal flora, the effects of these constituents on the intestinal flora of different hosts, and progress in research on the therapeutic properties of quinoa constituents, to provide a better understanding of quinoa in terms its dual medicinal and nutritional properties. We hope this review will provide a useful reference for approaches that seek to enhance the composition and activities of the intestinal flora.