Amaranth Contains More Calcium Than Milk – A Must-Eat Summer Superfood

As summer arrives and temperatures soar, many people begin to experience discomforts such as dry mouth, loss of appetite, and fatigue. During this time, dietary adjustments become especially important. Amaranth, a common seasonal vegetable in summer, is not only light and easy to digest but also packed with health-promoting nutrients. Remarkably, its calcium content even surpasses that of milk. Amaranth can help clear internal heat, dispel dampness, nourish the blood, and improve complexion.

Why Amaranth Is Recommended in Summer

Summer is characterized by hot weather, high humidity, and frequent rainfall. These conditions can lead to symptoms of internal heat and dampness, such as sore throat, mouth ulcers, constipation, swelling, poor appetite, and a heavy sensation in the body.

Additionally, the body’s metabolism speeds up in the summer, increasing the demand for nutrients. However, due to reduced appetite and the discomfort caused by heat, people may not consume enough essential nutrients, leading to a weakened immune system.

In summer, dietary supplements should focus on light, nourishing foods that are easy to digest. Amaranth fits this perfectly. As a seasonal vegetable, it helps clear heat and dampness while enriching the blood and enhancing beauty. It is rich in various nutrients and bioactive compounds, including calcium, iron, vitamins, potassium, dietary fiber, polyphenols, flavonoids, and phytosterols — making it an ideal addition to the summer diet.

Health Benefits of Eating Amaranth Regularly

Promotes Bone Health

Amaranth boasts a higher calcium content than milk and is also rich in vitamin K, which aids calcium absorption. This combination supports bone development in children and helps prevent osteoporosis in older adults.

Supports Cardiovascular Health

The high potassium content in amaranth helps regulate blood pressure. Additionally, its dietary fiber and phytosterols can assist in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Nourishes the Blood and Enhances Skin

Amaranth is a good source of iron and vitamin C. Iron helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, while vitamin C enhances iron absorption. This makes amaranth particularly beneficial for women and individuals with anemia. Moreover, it contains folate and vitamin E, which support skin health and slow the aging process.

Recommended Recipe: Amaranth, Job’s Tears, and Tofu Soup

Health Benefits:

This nourishing and hydrating soup helps clear heat and eliminate dampness, supports liver health, strengthens the spleen, and replenishes vital energy. By combining gentle detoxification with nutrition, it can help dispel external pathogens like wind, heat, and dampness while restoring the body’s immunity. It’s especially suitable for individuals who sit in air-conditioned environments for long periods, those who sweat heavily from outdoor work, and women going through menopause.

Preparation Method:

1. Soak Job’s tears (coix seeds) in water for 3–4 hours, then simmer over low heat for 30–40 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Blanch tofu in boiling water and set aside.
3. In a pot, bring water to a boil, then add tofu and Job’s tears along with some scallion and ginger for flavor.
4. Add goji berries, and season with an appropriate amount of salt and MSG.
5. Just before finishing, add amaranth. Once its vibrant color emerges, stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry to slightly thicken the soup.
6. Drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil before serving.

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