World Health Day: 5 Reasons Why Millets Should Be a Staple in Your Daily Diet

Over recent years, there has been a notable shift in dietary preferences toward health-conscious and environmentally sustainable food choices. This transformation has elevated the status of ancient grains and cereals with millets taking center stage. Millets, a category of small-seeded grains cultivated for centuries are indigenous to diverse regions worldwide, spanning from India to Africa. In India, millets such as ragi, jowar, bajra, and others have been a staple in diets and cultures for centuries, offering a range of health benefits and versatility that modern diets often overlook.

Our very own ‘SriAnna’ are widely regarded as Superfoods due to their significant nutritional profile, offering a variety of advantages. They also excel in various aspects of nutrition and are rich in both macronutrients such as proteins, fibre and good fats and micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and calcium.

This World Health Day, Dr Shilpa Vora, Chief R&D Officer, Marico Ltd shares five reasons why you should consider adding millets to your diet:

1. Nutrient PowerhouseMillets are filled with essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They offer a wholesome choice for a balanced diet. For instance, ragi (finger millet) serves as a rich source of calcium, iron and amino acids. Similarly, jowar (sorghum) boasts high protein, fiber and vitamin content. Bajra (pearl millet) is also renowned for its abundance of magnesium, which plays an important role in maintaining a healthy heart and regulating blood sugar levels.
2. Versatile and DeliciousMillets stand out the most for its ability to be incredibly versatile. They can be used in a variety of dishes, varying in formats, from breakfast as oats, and savory as chillas to baked goods and desserts. Their mild flavor allows them to blend well with different other grains, and flavor ingredients as herbs, and spices, enhancing the overall taste of your meals offering endless cooking options.
3. Gluten-Free and DigestibleOne notable benefit of millets is their natural gluten-free composition, making them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities and gluten free preferences. Additionally, millets are highly digestible and can be easier on the stomach compared to other refined grains. They also contribute to better digestion, reduce bloating, and promote gut health due to their high fiber content.
4. Sustainable and Environmentally FriendlyMillets are inherently sustainable crops that require minimal water and are resilient to pests and diseases. Their cultivation contributes to biodiversity and helps conserve water resources, making them environmentally friendly choices compared to water-intensive crops like rice and wheat. By incorporating millets into your diet, you’re not only benefiting your health but also supporting sustainable agriculture practices.Health Benefits Galore
   Regular consumption of millets offers numerous health benefits. They aid in better glucose management among diabetics and prediabetics by enhancing insulin sensitivity.

   Millets, as part of a balanced diet, also facilitate weight management owing to their high fiber content, which promotes a satisfied stomach and reduces cravings. Furthermore, their antioxidant properties help in improving overall immunity and mitigate the risk of chronic non communicable diseases like heart disease, cancer, and hypertension.

   Incorporating millets like ragi, jowar, bajra, and others into your daily diet is a smart and beneficial choice for your health and the environment. Their nutrient density, gluten-free nature, sustainability, versatility, and array of health benefits make them an invaluable addition to any meal plan.