Although often difficult to find in the marketplace, the leaves of the quinoa plant are edible, with a taste similar to its green-leafed relatives, spinach, chard and beets. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids.
Body fat is important for a wide variety of body functions. Having too little body fat may increase your risk for heart disease, gastrointestinal problems and damage to your nervous system, Also, the University of Pennsylvania adds, you incur the risk of organ shrinkage.
Being overly fat â even if you are of normal weight -- increases your risk of certain diseases, including heart disease, stroke, some cancers and Type 2 diabetes. Loss of muscle mass can also lead to loss of function. It may be harder to do chores, play with your kids, carry groceries or walk up the stairs. As you age, loss of muscle impedes balance and can cause dangerous falls and limit your ability to care for yourself.