Tiny yet mighty Millets' benefits

Millets are an ancient food rich in nutrition. Millets’ benefits health in multiple ways. They have been mentioned in Sanskrit texts like Yajurveda as well. In early days, millets were the staple for breakfast consisting of millet roti or khichdi or porridge accompanied with pickle or lentils. Even a little quantity of millets keeps you full and satiated for longer periods. These grains have been the staple food for thousands of years in many countries including India, China, Greece and Africa among other nations. They are highly nutrient and easily digestible food known to reduce the occurrence of diseases like cancer. People like Hunzas in Himalayan region have millets as their staple and hence are known for their excellent health and longevity. Since ancient times, people have been using millets for weight loss too. Since they have rich medical properties, they are called “Siridhanyalu”.

UN’s FAO has declared 2023 as the international year of Millets

Unfortunately, people took on to junk food and millets were ignored. But now, these super grains have made a comeback with people growing more health conscious. Recognising its benefits, the UN’s FAO has agreed to India’s proposal to declare the year 2023 as the international year of millets.

Millets contain double the amount of fibre and are low in glycaemic index. While rice breaks down glucose very fast, which leads to increase in blood sugar, millets on the other hand have low glycemic index and so break down glucose slowly.

Millet health benefits range from weight loss to strong bones and better immunity. These low-glycemic and gluten free crops are beneficial for people with diabetes. Loaded with high nutrition and energy, little millets also cleanse the body and help in overcoming diseases like cancer, gastro intestinal issues, liver failures, thyroid issues etc.

The preferred choice for high energy

With many people turning to smart diet food, millets are the preferred choice to keep the energy levels up. These versatile seeds can be included in the preparation of breakfast delights such as breads, dosa, upma, idli and many other energetic sweets and snacks.

Millet contains calories, proteins, carbohydrates, fibre, calcium, phosphorus and iron.

The fibre content in millets helps in controlling blood sugar. Flavanoids act as antioxidants in boosting immunity levels. Research indicates that little millets are effective in bringing relief to ailments related to heart, eyes, digestion and diabetes. The presence of magnesium boosts heart’s health. Vitamin B 3 reduces the cholesterol. Phosporus balances the fats.

Millet benefits include

• Cleanses the body.
• Remedy for PCOD issues, infertility related issues.
• Relief from hormonal imbalance.
• Acts as an effective medicine for acidity, indigestion.
• Healing food for knee aches.
• Effective in fighting thyroid and various cancers such as blood, brain and throat.

Are there any side-effects of millets?

People suffering from thyroid, hypothyroid are advised to refrain from millets. Children below 15 years should consume moderately. Excessive consumption of millets might lead to digestion issues.

How to Pick the right little millet?

Millets harvested using organic farming methods provide real natural benefits that are inherent in the grain. The pure and unpolished variant is yellow in appearance with a dot at the tip of the grain. It is always better to use organic millets for visible and better results as they are grown without the use of pesticides or chemicals of any kind. This helps in retaining millet nutritional benefits for a healthy body.Nature’s Box brings the finest millets well selected from the best organic millet growing regions across India. Utmost care is taken right from identifying high quality seeds to hygienic cleaning, drying and packing to ensure the nutrients in millets remain intact.

How to use millets?

Millets can be substituted with rice. It is important to soak them for about two hours before cooking. You can also try preparing a variety of sweets and snacks using this superfood.