Dalia, also known as broken wheat or cracked wheat, is made by coarsely grinding whole wheat grains. It's a staple in Indian kitchens and commonly used for making porridges and savoury dishes due to its high fibre and low glycemic index. Quinoa, on the other hand, is a pseudo-cereal originally from South America, packed with protein, fibre, and essential amino acids. When comparing the two, quinoa is generally considered healthier due to its superior protein quality, essential amino acids, and wider range of micronutrients. However, both are nutritious, and the better choice often depends on individual health goals and dietary needs. In this article, we discuss how dalia and quinoa are better than each other.
How dalia is better than quinoa
1. Budget-friendly and widely available
Dalia is much more affordable and accessible, especially in Indian households. For people looking to eat healthy without overspending, Dalia is an excellent whole grain option that offers solid nutrition.
2. High in fibre for digestive health
Dalia is a great source of dietary fibre, which promotes digestive health and keeps you full for longer. This makes it ideal for weight management and maintaining blood sugar levels.
3. Lower in calories and fat
Dalia contains fewer calories and less fat compared to quinoa, making it a good option for those on a calorie-restricted or weight-loss diet.
4. Easier to digest
Since Dalia is made from whole wheat, it's generally easier to digest than quinoa for many people, especially those not used to high-protein or high-fibre diets.
5. Cultural versatility
Dalia adapts well to traditional Indian cooking and flavours, making it a comforting and familiar choice for many households.
How quinoa is better than dalia
1. Complete protein source
Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein—ideal for vegetarians and vegans who need to ensure sufficient protein intake.
2. Higher in nutrients
Quinoa is rich in magnesium, iron, potassium, and zinc, along with antioxidants. It provides more vitamins and minerals per serving compared to Dalia.
3. Gluten-free
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, which makes it suitable for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease whereas Dalia, made from wheat, contains gluten.
4. Lower glycemic index
Although both have a relatively low GI, quinoa has an edge in better regulating blood sugar due to its protein and fibre combo, making it suitable for diabetics.
5. Better for muscle growth and repair
With higher protein content and a richer amino acid profile, quinoa supports muscle recovery and energy levels more effectively than Dalia.
While both Dalia and Quinoa are healthy options, quinoa is nutritionally superior in terms of protein, amino acids, and micronutrient content, making it better suited for those needing higher nutritional density. However, Dalia wins in affordability, digestibility, and cultural fit. The ideal choice depends on your health goals, dietary restrictions, and budget.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
