What are Millets?In simple terms,
millets are a powerhouse
of nutrients
What are Millets?In simple terms,
millets are a powerhouse
of nutrients
Traditional millets have gained popularity over the past few years due to the healthy food revolution. As health consciousness has increased among people, millets have become more popular due to their nutritional content. They are also gluten-free and boast of being high in protein, fiber, and antioxidant contents. And because millets offer so many benefits, it is no wonder millets have become such a fad among millennials.
Millets are coarse grains that are traditionally grown and consumed in the Indian subcontinent for over 5000 years. Millets are low maintenance and drought-resistant grains that are round in shape. Millets grow extremely quickly and mature in almost half the time required for rice and wheat, making it an Ideal crop.
Types MilletsMillets
All millet varieties belong to the Poaceae family, they differ in color, appearance, and species.
Some popular varieties of Millets
Little millet is suitable for people of all age groups. Little millet is grown throughout India and is a traditional crop. It is mostly consumed as rice. Any recipe that demands staple rice can be prepared using little millet. It has the smallest grains, so it cooks faster than other millets.Little millet has a significant role in providing nutraceutical components such as phenols, tannins and phytates along with other nutrients. Little Millet is rich in fiber, slow-digesting carbohydrates and antioxidants. It is an ideal food for diabetics as it prevents abnormal spikes in blood sugar levels.
Samai dosa, porridge, paddu and payasam from little millet are few traditional recipes in different millet growing states in India.
Foxtail millet has a sweet nutty flavour and provides a host of nutrients and is considered to be one of the most digestible and non-allergic grains available. It contains fibre, protein, calcium, and vitamins. It has double the quantity of protein content compared to rice and helps to control blood sugar and cholesterol. It increases disease resistant capacity when consumed and is considered an ideal food for people suffering from diabetes and gastric problems. It is rich in dietary fibre and minerals such as copper and iron that keeps one’s body strong and immune. It is one of the recommended nutritive foods for children and pregnant women.
It is also a farmer-friendly crop by virtue of its drought and temperature resistance, and the efficiency to grow well with minimal water and other inputs.
Kodo millet is a repository of nutrients, a great substitute for rice and wheat. It is termed as a wholesome food, prized for its medicinal, therapeutic and culinary properties and is recommended for diabetics, to beat fatigue, heal wounds faster. Being cold in nature, it increases vata dosha but balances issues caused due to kapha and pitta doshas. Owing to their incredible nutritional properties, Kodo millets gained an undeniable slot on the list of super foods in this modern era. A repository of protein, dietary fibre, good fats and an array of antioxidants, these super tiny millets with low glycemic index are hugely recommended for those suffering from diabetes.
Barnyard millet is a fast growing cereal. It is grown in less fertile lands where other crops cannot be cultivated. It is a staple food for some communities in India where it is consumed during religious fasting. Barnyard Millet is a fair source of protein, which is highly digestible and is an excellent source of dietary fibre with good amounts of soluble and insoluble fractions. The carbohydrate content is low and slowly digestible. According to research, consumption of the barnyard millet recorded lowest blood glucose, serum cholesterol and triglycerides compared to other millets.
Sorghum Millet flour. Popularly known as Jowar in India, this gluten-free millet is recognised to have a significant role in cellular function and repair since it is high in protein, iron, and copper. The abundance of potassium and phosphorous helps control high blood pressure and lower cholesterol. Sorghum millet grains and flour should be a regular part of your diet because they are extremely high in fibre, which is the most crucial factor.
The gluten-free, whole-grain goodness of jowar has earned it the title “new quinoa” throughout the world. In English, it is known as sorghum. Jowar is a common grain used for consumption in India.
Millets for Good HealthBenefits of Millets
Millets are highly nutrient rich! In fact so much that they are now the cereal of choice
for millions of health-conscious people around the world.
and control blood sugar
Millets are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an ideal choice for weight loss. Consuming millets helps in maintaining energy levels, especially during workouts. In fact, millets help in curbing cravings, thus preventing overeating and snacking.
a great immunity booster
Millets provide a great source of protein and because of that, they can help strengthen immunity, thus reducing the risk of contracting diseases.
in preventing asthma
Millets are high in magnesium content that helps in reducing the severity of asthma. Millets are also almost allergen free, making them an ideal choice for people with risk of asthma.
cardiovascular problems
Millets have 'good fats' that prevent accumulation and lower the risk of cholesterol, strokes and other heart conditions. The potassium content of millets is also a great source to optimize the blood circulation, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
great for digestion
Being fiber-rich, millets help in reducing bloating, gas, cramping and constipation. They are digested readily by the body, without any side effects of indigestion.
antioxidant properties
For those looking to go on a detox regime, millets have great antioxidant properties. Quercetin, curcumin, ellagic acid, and other valuable catechins present in millets flush out toxins from the body and neutralize the enzymatic actions of your organs.