Why should we eat Millets?
Millets are tiny high protein rich, fibrous grains grown in dry areas and have a very short growing zone.
Why Millets?
They are high in nutritional content, gluten free, alkaline, excellent source of B vitamins, magnesium, filled with anti-oxidants and easy to digest giving a soothing effect for stomach. Before discussing the types of millets, let’s first discuss the benefits of having millets in your diet.
Can eating millets help in controlling blood sugar?
Millets have a lower value of Glycemic Index (GI) as compared to traditional cereals like wheat, rice etc. Low GI Carbs (GI<55) are digested and absorbed steadily in the body thus regulating blood sugar levels. Below is a GI table comparison of different whole grains.
Grain Type | Glycemic Index |
Whole Wheat | 74 |
Barley | 66 |
White Rice | 73 |
Cornflakes | 80 |
Oat Bran | 50 |
Whole Sorghum Millet (Jowar) | 62 |
Foxtail Millet | 50 |
Finger Millet (Ragi) | 42 |
Pearl Millet (Bajra) | 49 |
Barnyard Millet | 42 |
Kodo Millet | 49 |
Little Millet flakes | 45 |
Proso Millet | 45 |
Can eating millets help you lose weight?
Millets are low in calories and rich in fiber, keeping you fuller for longer. Vegetarians are going to love it, because it’s a rich source of protein. All of these when combined with exercise, proper rest and positive attitude help in healthy weight loss.
Will millets help in PCOS?
Including whole grain millets in your breakfast will help in maintaining optimum insulin functions and achieving optimum weight, condition being you should have your breakfast in 30-45 mins of waking up. This habit will prevent insulin imbalance, which is a main cause of PCOS.
Millets are rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. They help in overcoming hormonal imbalances which is a primary reason for PCOS. Make sure to include millets in your diet daily to bring steady weight loss, thus combating PCOS.
Millets are prebiotic in nature:
The good bacteria in the intestine depend on non-digestive substances known as prebiotics for their survival. Millet whole grains also show prebiotic activity which nourishes good bacteria and improves digestion. Studies show that, the good bacteria in gut has an influence in brain functions, lowering stress levels and less mood swings, which are symptoms for PCOS.
Caution: Too much consumption of millets can worsen symptoms associated with thyroid dysfunction. So, people with pre-existing thyroid problems, especifically hypo-thyroidism, need to restrict intake of millets or millet-based foods.