Health benefits of millets: From weight loss to blood sugar control, include these 8 millets in your daily diet
Health benefits of millets: These ancient grains, once a staple in many cultures, are making a comeback due to their impressive health benefits. Here's everything you need to know about the nutritional profile of millets and discover why they are so good for your health.
Millets are packed with essential nutrients and offer numerous benefits for your well-being. They are rich in dietary fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, particularly magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, and B vitamins. Additionally, millets are a good source of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Research suggests that millets provide an energy boost of 320 to 370 kcal per 100 gm. Here are 8 different millets, each offering a plethora of health benefits (Image: Canva)
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Barnyard millet: Barnyard millet is low in calories and has a low glycemic index, making it ideal for weight loss and blood sugar control. It is rich in fibre, improves digestion and prevents constipation. Additionally, it contains significant amounts of calcium and phosphorus that support bone health (Image: Canva)
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Finger millet: Finger millet is known for its high calcium content, which is crucial for bone health. The amino acids present in ragi promote satiety and manage weight. Finger millet has been shown to help control blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetics (Image: Canva)
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Foxtail millet: Foxtail millet is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps control appetite. It is also rich in iron and magnesium that improve cardiovascular health and prevent anemia (Image: Canva)
Kodo millet: Kodo millet is high in protein and dietary fibre. It aids to reduce hunger pangs and supports in weight loss. It is also rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and promote good health. Alongside, Kodo millet's high magnesium content helps to maintain heart health (Image: Canva)
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Little millet: Little millet is low in calories and packed with fibre. This makes it effective in regulating digestion and also helps in weight loss. It is also a good source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and keeping up healthy skin and hair (Image: Canva)
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Pearl millet: Pearl millet is a nutrient-dense grain, packed with fibre, protein, and essential minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. It supports healthy metabolism and helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Its high fibre content promotes satiety and aids in weight loss (Image: Canva)
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Proso millet: It is rich in protein, fibre, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. It has a low glycemic index, which assists in controlling blood sugar levels. The high fibre content aids digestion and promotes fullness, which can help with weight management. Additionally, its antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting good health (Image: Canva)
Sorghum: Sorghum is rich in antioxidants, particularly phenolic compounds, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. It is also high in protein and fibre. It promotes satiety and aids in keeping your weight in check. Sorghum contains significant amounts of iron, phosphorus, and potassium, all of which support your health and wellness (Image: Canva)
Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
