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Writer's pictureAnurag Upadhyay

All Types of Millets & Millet Benefits in Weight Loss & Diabetes Control | Millet Uses | Millet Nutrition Information | Gluten-free Grains | Healthy Grains | Diabetes-friendly Grains

Updated: Mar 13

Calling all health-conscious foodies! Today, we're venturing into the exciting realm of millets. These unassuming grains, often overlooked in favor of more mainstream options, are packed with a surprising punch of nutrition and flavor. From boosting digestion to managing diabetes, millets offer a treasure trove of health benefits!


Table of Content



All Types of Millet & Millet Benefits in Weight Loss & Other Benefits:


The beauty of millets lies in their diverse varieties, each boasting a unique texture and taste:


Finger Millet , Mandua/Mangal , Kodra , Mandia , Taidalu , Kazhvaragu , Kezhvatagu , Nachani ,Ragi -
Finger Millet

Finger Millet , Mandua/Mangal , Kodra , Mandia , Taidalu , Kazhvaragu , Kezhvatagu , Nachani ,Ragi -

Named for its distinctive finger-like shape, ragi is a calcium powerhouse. It's ideal for flatbreads like dosa, porridge, or lactation-boosting cookies for new moms!

Rich Source of Calcium and Bone Health: Ragi boasts an impressive calcium content, significantly higher than most other grains. This makes it a fantastic choice for promoting strong bones and teeth, especially beneficial for growing children, pregnant women, and those at risk of osteoporosis.


Excellent Source of Protein: Ragi is a good source of plant-based protein, making it a valuable option for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, supporting cell repair, and promoting overall health.

May Help Manage Diabetes: Due to its slow-digesting nature and low glycemic index, ragi may help regulate blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or those trying to prevent it.

Rich in Iron and Combats Anemia: Ragi is a good source of iron, which is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body. This can help prevent and manage iron deficiency anemia, a condition that causes fatigue and weakness.

May Aid Digestion: Ragi is a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate bowel movements.

May Promote Heart Health: Ragi may contribute to heart health due to its fiber content and potential to lower bad cholesterol levels.


Pearl Millet , Bajran, Cambu, Sajje, Pennisetum, Dhkhn, Babile, Gero, Sanio, Maiwa
Pearl Millet
Pearl Millet , Bajran, Cambu, Sajje, Pennisetum, Dhkhn, Babile, Gero, Sanio, Maiwa -  

With a hint of nuttiness, bajra is a staple in many Indian dishes. It can be used in savory delights like rotis, upma, or even transformed into delicious millet burgers!

  • High in Fiber: Bajra is a rich source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, keeping you feeling full for longer, and potentially aiding weight management.

  • Gluten-Free Choice: Perfect for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, bajra provides a delicious and nutritious alternative to wheat.

  • Packed with Nutrients: Bajra boasts a good amount of protein, essential B vitamins, iron, and minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, contributing to overall well-being.

  • May Help Manage Diabetes: Due to its slow-digesting nature, bajra may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for diabetics or those at risk.

  • May Promote Heart Health: Rich in antioxidants, bajra may help lower bad cholesterol levels, potentially contributing to a healthier heart.

  • Good Source of Iron: Bajra contributes to iron intake, which helps prevent and manage iron deficiency anemia, a condition that causes fatigue and weakness.

  • May Aid Gut Health: The prebiotic fiber in bajra helps nourish good gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

  • May Improve Energy Levels: The combination of complex carbohydrates and protein in bajra can provide sustained energy throughout the day.

  • Alkaline Properties: Bajra is considered an alkaline food, which may help balance the body's pH levels and potentially contribute to overall health.

Kodo Millet, Varai, Arikelu,Kod Millets , Attapeshi, Karek, Gauria, Paspalum
Kodu Millet
Kodo Millet, Varai, Arikelu,Kod Millets , Attapeshi, Karek, Gauria, Paspalum -

These tiny, round millets cook quickly and have a slightly sweet taste. Kodo millet shines in salads, soups, or even puddings!

  • Digestive Delight: Kodo millets are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting smooth digestion and helping you feel fuller for longer.

  • Gluten-Free Friend: Like other millets, kodo millets are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and nutritious choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

  • Nutrient Powerhouse: Don't be fooled by their size! Kodo millets pack a punch of protein, essential B vitamins, and minerals like iron and calcium, contributing to overall well-being.

  • May Manage Blood Sugar: Due to their slow-digesting nature, kodo millets may help regulate blood sugar levels, potentially benefiting people with diabetes or those at risk.

  • May Support Heart Health: The presence of antioxidants in kodo millets may contribute to lower bad cholesterol levels, potentially promoting a healthier heart.

  • May Benefit Skin Health: Early research suggests kodo millets may contribute to healthy skin due to their antioxidant content.

  • May Aid Weight Management: The fiber content in kodo millets can help you feel full for longer, potentially reducing calorie intake and aiding weight management efforts.

  • May Boost Energy Levels: The combination of complex carbohydrates and protein in kodo millets can provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Barnyard Millet, Sanwa, Jhangora, Kudiraivali, Oodalu/Udalu, Kavadapullu -
Barnyard Millet

Barnyard Millet, Sanwa, Jhangora, Kudiraivali, Oodalu/Udalu, Kavadapullu - 

Despite the name, this gluten-free gem is a champion of protein and fiber. Enjoy it in khichdi, pulao, or stuffed vegetables!

Barnyard millet, a grain that packs a punch despite its name, offers a range of health benefits. Here are some key reasons to consider including it in your diet:

  • Powerhouse of Protein and Fiber: Barnyard millet stands out for its high protein content compared to other millets. It's also a good source of dietary fiber, keeping you feeling full for longer and promoting healthy digestion.

  • Gluten-Free Goodness: Perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, barnyard millet provides a delicious and nutritious alternative to wheat and other gluten-containing grains.

  • Rich in Essential Nutrients: This tiny grain boasts a good amount of essential B vitamins, iron, and minerals like phosphorus, contributing to overall well-being.

  • May Help Manage Diabetes: Due to its slow-digesting nature and potentially lower glycemic index, barnyard millet may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for diabetics or those at risk.

  • May Promote Heart Health: Barnyard millet may contribute to heart health due to its fiber content and potential to lower bad cholesterol levels.

  • May Aid Weight Management: The combination of protein and fiber in barnyard millet can help you feel full for longer, potentially reducing calorie intake and aiding weight management efforts.

  • Easy to Digest: Barnyard millet is known for being easily digestible, making it a good choice for people with sensitive stomachs.

  • May Improve Energy Levels: The combination of complex carbohydrates and protein in barnyard millet can provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Foxtail Millet ,Sanwa, Jhangora, Kudiraivali, Oodalu/Udalu, Kavadapullu, Swank/Shyma Khira,Echinochloa frumentacea, Kangni -
Foxtail Millets
Foxtail Millet ,Sanwa, Jhangora, Kudiraivali, Oodalu/Udalu, Kavadapullu, Swank/Shyma Khira,Echinochloa frumentacea, Kangni -  

Resembling tiny foxtails, this millet has a mild, sweet flavor. Enjoy its fluffy texture in khichdi, porridge, or even use its flour for baking!

  • Fiber Fiesta: Foxtail millets are a champion of dietary fiber, promoting smooth digestion and keeping you feeling full for longer, potentially aiding weight management efforts.

  • Gluten-Free Freedom: They are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious choice for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

  • Nutrient Nirvana: Don't underestimate these tiny grains! Foxtail millets are packed with essential nutrients like protein, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, contributing to overall health.

  • Blood Sugar Balance: Due to their slow-digesting nature, foxtail millets may help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a potentially beneficial choice for people with diabetes or those at risk.

  • Heart Health Hero: Rich in antioxidants, foxtail millets might help lower bad cholesterol levels, potentially promoting a healthier heart.

  • Fiber Fiesta: Foxtail millets are a champion of dietary fiber, promoting smooth digestion and keeping you feeling full for longer, potentially aiding weight management efforts.

  • Gluten-Free Freedom: They are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious choice for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

  • Nutrient Nirvana: Don't underestimate these tiny grains! Foxtail millets are packed with essential nutrients like protein, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, contributing to overall health.

  • Blood Sugar Balance: Due to their slow-digesting nature, foxtail millets may help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a potentially beneficial choice for people with diabetes or those at risk.

  • Heart Health Hero: Rich in antioxidants, foxtail millets might help lower bad cholesterol levels, potentially promoting a healthier heart.

  • May Aid Gut Health: The prebiotic fiber in foxtail millets helps nourish good gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

  • May Improve Energy Levels: The presence of complex carbohydrates provides sustained energy release throughout the day.

  • May Support Bone Health: The minerals, particularly magnesium, in foxtail millets may contribute to maintaining strong bones.

  • Easy to Digest: Foxtail millets are known for being easily digestible, making them a good option for people with sensitive stomachs.

Millet Marvels: A Nutritional Powerhouse Table


Here's a handy table showcasing the nutritional content of some popular millets (per 100g):


Nutrition Information of Foxtail Millet , Finger Millet , Pearl Millet , Kado Millet , Barnyard Millet

Millet Musings: Embracing the Millet Lifestyle

Ready to embrace the power of millets? Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Start Slow: Introduce small amounts of millets into your existing recipes for a smooth transition.

  • Variety is Key: Experiment with different millets to discover your favorites. Look for millet flour, pasta, and breakfast cereals for added convenience.

  • Get Creative: Don't be afraid to experiment! Millets can be incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes.

So next time you're at the grocery store, ditch the refined grains and embrace the world of millets! These tiny nutritional powerhouses can transform your meals into delicious and health-boosting experiences. Let's get cooking with millets!

 

Millets | Types of Millets | Millet Benefits | Millet Uses | Millet Nutrition | Gluten-free Grains | Healthy Grains | Diabetes-friendly Grains | Weight Loss | Healthy Food | Super Food | Diet | Vegan

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