Leading a healthy life is one of the important goals we need to have today. Health has become a luxury as a healthy body and mind seems rare today. Also, the food we are consuming might be adulterated with almost zero nutrition. In this case what we really need is clean and pure food with essential nutrients. India has vast agricultural diversity that connects different food cultures. There are many traditional grains available in India and consumed but millet has made a special place for centuries.
What is Millet?
Millets are the group of small seeded cereal grains that belong to the grass family widely consumed by health conscious people. Millets are resilient as they can be easily grown in harsh conditions with minimal water and fertilizers requirement. Hence, Millets are the healthier choice for every individual. Not only this, Millets are environment friendly and sustainable in nature packed with high fibre, protein, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium and manganese. Being naturally gluten free, millets are an ideal choice for gluten intolerant people. Millets are drought resistance crops that can easily grow in harsh climate conditions. With multiple health benefits, millets are gaining popularity as a superfood in various recipes like rotis, porridge and other snacks. Millets can be easily cooked as well as easy on digestion.
Types of millets -
There are varieties of millets available where the most common millets are Barnyard Millet, Finger Millet, Foxtail Millet, Pearl Millet, Browntop Millet, Little Millet. All Millets fall under the category 5 Positive Millets. These are loaded with essential nutrients, hence mostly recommended for breakfast. So, let’s explore different types of Millets below.
Barnyard Millet (Sanwa) -
Barnyard Millet is a good option for traditional fasting and light meals. It can be recommended for varieties of dishes with simplicity and balance. You can identify Barnyard Millet with its white coloured seeds. Millets are ideal light digestive meals for kids in the form of kheer, dosas, and idlis. And, for people who are thinking of losing weight can definitely consume Barnyard Millet. Due to the high fibre content, it makes you feel full for longer to help you avoid unnecessary munching. It is also a great source of phosphorus and calcium.
Finger Millet (Ragi) -
Finger Millet is another type of millet which is popular for its nutritional value. In India, Finger Millet is highly grown and mostly used in baby foods. Being a superfood, Finger Millet is the combination of multiple nutrients like calcium, iron, fibre and essential amino acids that help enhance digestion, bone health, heart health and skin health. It is naturally gluten free and hence a good option for gluten sensitive people. It can be used in making rotis, porridge, dosa and traditional snacks.
Foxtail Millet ( Kakum/ Kangni) -
Here we have another type of millet that is easily grown in semi-arid regions as the growing region is not so vast. Foxtail Millet is highly nutrient dense and healthy for your body. Rich source of calcium that supports bone health and helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis, fibre for better digestion and helps in weight management. The low glycemic index in it helps in slow sugar release into the bloodstream that maintains stable blood sugar level. Hence, it may be beneficial for people with diabetes.
Pearl Millet ( Bajra) -
Pearl Millet is a highly grown crop in Indian states. It is the energy rich grain which is widely consumed in India. Pearl Millet or Bajra is rich in essential minerals like iron, magnesium and phosphorus that helps in improving hemoglobin levels, stronger bones, better heart health and digestion. It also has a low glycemic index that helps maintain your blood sugar level. The antioxidant properties in Pearl Millet helps reduce inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress.
Browntop Millet (Korle) -
The unique thing about Browntop Millet is that it can even be grown in less fertile areas or regions. It is highly nutritious and less known grown grain has multiple health benefits. The high fibre content supports a better gut health, helps with weight management, and the low glycemic index helps in maintaining blood sugar levels. Additionally, it has the essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium which helps in maintaining the overall metabolic function and hemoglobin levels. Also, its antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and protect from oxidative stress.
Little Millet (Moraiyo) -
The Little Millet can be easily grown in drought prone areas which is the best thing about it. It is easily digestible and light on the stomach. It offers several health benefits with important nutrients like minerals and vitamin B. The dietary fibre in it helps prevent constipation by supporting a better digestion. It also helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels making it ideal for people with diabetes. Consuming Little Millet can help boost energy levels and improve metabolism.
Now, you know Millets are not just a light meal but a great combination of nutritional values, health benefits and of course good in taste. It reflects the power of organic and traditional food in sustainability. You have already explored the types of Millets and important details about it. You must be thinking where can I get it? Shiva Organic is the right place for these requirements. And, not only Millets but you can also get Millets & Pulses. It’s time you get ready to transform your regular life into a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1 - Why are Millets considered healthy?
Millets are known for their high nutritional value like high dietary fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals ( Iron, Phosphorus and Magnesium). Also, Millets are gluten free that makes it easily digestible. Hence, Millet is a good healthy meal option as it supports overall well-being.
2 - Name the different types of Millets?
The types of millets are Barnyard Millet, Finger Millet, Foxtail Millet, Pearl Millet, Browntop Millet, Little Millet. They are together called 5 Positive Millets that work great on your health. These Millets are widely consumed for their versatile health benefits and nutritional values.
3 - Can people with diabetes consume Millet?
Millets are preferably recommended by health experts or nutritionists for people with diabetes. The reason is their low glycemic index which helps slow the release of sugar in blood preventing sudden sugar spikes. This is how they help maintain proper blood sugar levels.
4 - How Millets help with Weight Management?
Millets have high dietary fibre that helps you feel full for longer by reducing the unnecessary cravings. Random snacking can lead to unhealthy weight accumulation. Hence, this makes it an ideal choice for weight management in a healthy and natural way.
5 - Where can I buy a high quality Millet?
If you want to buy high quality millets with a wide variety including 5 Positive Millets and Pulses, you can conveniently get it online from Shiva Organic. They clearly offer clean, natural, nutrient rich and premium quality Millets.
