## 5 Potential Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of _Amaranthus_ Leaves
The plant possesses hepatoprotective, antioxidant activity, water extract of the plant have a significant immune-stimulating activity, and extracts had been used as an antidiuretic, antiviral, antimalarial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatic disorders [41]. It is used internally in the treatment of internal bleeding, diarrhea, and excessive menstruation [41]. _Amaranthus_ has not only been of benefits in traditional medicine, ornamental and industrial benefits but also, _Amaranthus_ has widely been investigated for its nutritional composition, and have been reported to have potentials in human and animal nutrition; hence, they are identified as rich in the following dietary nutrient [4, 49]. Fiber: _Amaranthus_ has been considered a rich source of fiber, which constitutes soluble and insoluble [50; 51]. Therefore, the inclusion of _Amaranthus_ leaves as one of the ingredients in a daily diet can be of advantage to the consumers, as it aids digestion and as well as beneficial, by way of easing bowel movement, managing weight and thereby, reducing non-communicable diseases, especially heart disease and diabetes. High protein and fiber components of _Amaranthus_ can assist in reducing appetite, thereby promoting individual weight loss and healthy living [50; 52]. Due to the fiber content, _Amaranthus_ digest easily; hence, it can be beneficial to convalescents and those recovering from illnesses. In addition, its leaves have been known to treat diarrhea and hemorrhages. Protein. Dark green leafy vegetables, including _Amaranthus_ leaves and the grain, are rich sources of plant protein [53]. _Amaranthus_ is among the vegetables that are rich in essential amino acids [54]. Protein from the plant has been regarded as much healthier protein than protein from the animal. This is because plant sources are having less or no fat and, therefore, cholesterol-free. It has been noted that bad cholesterol in the body leads to cardiac problems. Amaranth leaves are known to lower bad cholesterol, which is responsible for many cardiac problems. Also, it is claimed that consumption of _Amaranthus_ leaves suppresses appetite since they are rich in protein [3]. A protein-rich diet can suppress hunger because it reduces insulin levels in the blood, thus controlling the appetite. _Amaranthus_ is gluten protein-free. Thus, it can be beneficial to those who are gluten intolerant. Proteins are macronutrients required by humans for the growth and maintenance of the human system. It plays a critical role in regulating different activities at the cellular, tissue, and organ levels of the body, providing the right hydrolytic environment [55]. Plant and animals are rich sources of protein. Plant proteins form a large part of the human diet. However, deficient in one or more essential amino acids are regarded as incomplete protein. If certain food supplies enough of seven out of the eight essential amino acids, the lacking amino acid is referred to as the \"limiting amino acid\". These limiting proteins (lysine, threonine, methionine, and tryptophan) could be found in plants, such as _Amaranthus_. Hence, _Amaranthus_ has been identified to have lysine in a significant amount. Moreover, lysine has been known to help to promotes hair growth and slows aging processes and enhances good skin. In addition, people who suffer hair loss or the early graying of hair can benefit maximally by including _Amaranthus_ leaves in their diet. In addition, lysine is an essential amino acid, which is essential for energy production and a good precursor for the absorption of calcium. Both _Amaranthus_ leaves and the grain is a rich source of protein. Currently, _huautiful_ is a superfood, and it is gaining worldwide recognition as a high-protein edible plant with great potentials to provide a solution for the world's hunger and to tackle malnutrition challenges [4].