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Because of their exceptional nutritional profile, millets are referred to as Nutri-cereals. They are nutritional powerhouses that give your body a variety of necessary elements. 2023 has been designated as the International Year of Millets by the Food and Agriculture Organisation to raise awareness of its extraordinary health advantages.
Millets are a great source of protein, fibre, and antioxidants in addition to being gluten-free. It has plenty of carbohydrates, but it also offers the vital vitamins and minerals that light it up.
Millets have historically been eaten throughout Central and Southern India as well as a handful of Uttarakhand's hilly districts. After the Green Movement of 1970, they fell out of favour in all of India.
Ragi (Finger Millet):
One of the most often-used types of millet is finger millet, also known as ragi. Amazing bodily cooling effects can be found in finger millet or ragi. Ragi is regarded as a fantastic meal to eat in the summer. Ragi is rich in protein, calcium, iron, and a number of vital amino acids.
Ragi also has a high fibre content and a low glycaemic index. As a result, it is a beneficial cereal choice for diabetics and aids in controlling blood sugar levels.
Jowar (Sorghum):
This is yet another variety of millet that is widely used in India to create bread and rotis. Locally, it is referred to as Jowar. Because it contains policosanols, organic jowar is a good source of iron, protein, and fibre and can decrease cholesterol levels. Jowar is a better option for those who are allergic to wheat. Jowar is high in calories and macronutrients and has more antioxidants than blueberries and pomegranates. The metabolism is accelerated by sorghum.
Sama (Little Millet):
Little millet is a good source of vitamin B3, which is essential for the body's ability to decrease cholesterol, speed up metabolism, repair tissue, and produce energy for activities. In addition, it is rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc minerals.
Little millet aids in the production of healthy lipids, which are essential for weight loss. Little millet has a high fibre level, which keeps you fuller for longer periods of time and reduces the urge to nibble.
Bajra (Pearl Millet):
Including foods that are incredibly nutrient-dense, like bajra, in your regular diet will help you combat type II diabetes. It is the most common millet grown in India because it is rich in phosphorus and contains nutrients like calcium and magnesium. It is used in chapattis, sprouted in porridges, khichdis, and many other dishes.
Sanwa (Barnyard Millet):
This millet is an excellent grain to include in your diet if you're trying to lose weight and reduce your calorie intake. This ancient grain has a low-calorie content and a high fibre content, which contributes to a sensation of satiety and fullness after eating. Antioxidants, which are found in abundance in this millet, aid in the treatment of numerous illnesses and health issues. These millets prolong the duration of satiety in the body. The desire to eat more food, which is how extra calories eventually enter the system, is diminished as a result. Instead of Maida, you can use barnyard millet flour.
Kodo Millet:
Kodo millet is an abundant source of phytochemicals and antioxidants that are readily absorbed by the body and guard against a number of lifestyle-related illnesses.
The phenolic extracts from kodo Millet lower LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and protect the heart. Additionally, it brings down blood pressure and lessens signs of stress. It has been discovered that kodo millet is advantageous for those with sluggish metabolisms and obesity.
The antioxidants included in Kodo millet boost immunological function and metabolic activity. It is therefore seen as a preferable alternative to rice and wheat in weight-loss programmes.
Foxtail Millet (Kangni):
A nutritious alternative to white rice is kakum or kangni. It is a massive energy source that is packed with healthy calories. Vitamin B12, which is essential for a healthy heart, a functional neurological system, and generally healthy skin and hair growth, is abundant in foxtail millet. Additionally, it has a lot of iron, which eases restless syndrome and minimises muscle spasms.
