Do You Know What Teff Is?

Teff is an ancient superfood grain, consumed primarily across Ethiopia and Eritrea. One of the most important, staple crops in the region, it is often used to make a flatbread called, injera. Many Ethiopian endurance athletes also include teff as a key ingredient in their diets. With a history that goes back over 6,000 years… it’s about time we caught up!

Background

Did you know that teff is one of the smallest grains in the world? With each seed measuring less than 1mm in diameter. This is where the name, teff, is thought to have originated from – the Amharic word, teffa, meaning “lost”.


Whilst it may be small in size, teff boasts remarkable nutritional value and versatility, making it a powerhouse superfood.

Health Benefits of Teff

Research on teff and its health benefits is exciting and growing. So far teff has been found to benefit:

  • Gut health: From better digestion to improved immunity, teff can support your gut with prebiotic fibre.
  • Energy: Fuel sustainable performance with this slow-release, iron-rich wholegrain.
  • Overall wellbeing: Naturally high in essential vitamins and minerals, teff supports your body to work at its best.

Dr Scott Robinson on how teff can support sustained energy levels.

Dr Jonny Christopher on high quality nutrition.

Dr Dan Owens on how teff can support gut health.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Teff is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a wide range of essential nutrients that the body requires to function at its best. This includes: 

  • Fibre: High in dietary fibre, teff promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Minerals: Teff is loaded with important minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
  • Vitamins: Teff is rich in B vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin B6.
  • Protein: Teff is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a smart addition to vegan and vegetarian diets
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Harvest of Champions

Teff is often referred to as the "runner's superfood", given how many Ethiopian long-distance runners attribute their success to this tiny grain. Here’s why it’s a trusted fuel for athletes:

  • High in iron. Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy production. It also supports metabolism, normal cellular functioning, and the synthesis of some
    hormones.
  • High in prebiotic starch. 20-40% of the starch in teff is resistant starch which feeds good bacteria in the gut. 
  • Complex carbohydrate. Teff is a whole grain and packed with slow-release carbohydrates for gradual and sustained energy release. 
  • Nutrient-dense. Teff’s rich nutrient profile makes it a great recovery fuel to support a 24-hour recovery.

Fuelling the Future

Did you know 75% of the world’s food comes from just 12 crops and 5 animal sources? With changing climates, that makes us vulnerable to food shortages. Teff is not only a very healthy grain, it’s also a resilient crop. It uses 10 times less water than wheat to grow and can grow in poor soils. Adding teff to our diets helps add diversity to our food supply. Our teff is responsibly sourced from farmers outside of Ethiopia and Eritrea to avoid causing political volitility and price fluctuations.