A food source rich in protein, fibre and abundant vitamins, along with being low in calories, millets is a storehouse of nutrition. These superfoods have a low glycemic index. This allows them to be digested and absorbed by the body at a slow rate, which means you are looking at maximum absorption of nutrients without a spike in sugar levels.
In addition to this, these gluten-free grains are abundant in minerals and are great for people who are looking to shed extra weight.
We explore this interesting property of the millets and also give you some amazing recipes to try.
For all those looking for a healthy snack option, you have just landed on the best. This millets abundance of vitamin B12 and omega 3 fatty acids ensure you are getting your dose of vitamins.
With their thin crispy hulls and yellow beady appearance, the foxtail millets are easy to recognise. The main component of the millet is the amino acid tryptophan. It helps you feel satiated and prevents hunger pangs. Along with this, the millet performs a very important function, as it prevents the body from accumulating extra fat in the adipose tissue.
Whether in powdered form or even in its original form, bajra is one of the most popular ingredients in our grandmothers recipes. It is abundant in niacin, riboflavin, vitamin B6 and iron.
This millet is a preferred option by those who suffer from gluten intolerance as it is gluten-free. Along with this, what makes for its weight loss properties is its calorie density of 1.2.
Another healthy option when it comes to millets is jowar. What sets it apart and makes it a favourite option for weight loss is that the starches present in it are complex and thus the body finds these difficult to digest.
It provides the feeling of being full without causing weight gain. In fact, many people opt for jowar rotis as a healthy alternative to atta. This is due to the millets policosanol content, which helps reduce cholesterol.
Anyone who has gorged on Udupi cuisine or heard of the health benefits of these foods will know of the wonders of this millet. Along with being packed with fibres and amino acids, it has a unique blend of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibres and proteins. This ensures that one gets their daily dietary requirements without feeling hungry.
Indigenous to Karnataka, the millet is loved by all, especially pregnant women, all over India due to its high iron content. It is also said to make balance hormones and thus make the period of pregnancy easier.
The barnyard millet has a high fibre content of 13.6 gms per 100 gm grains. Due to this high fibre content, you will avoid unnecessary binging.
Moreover, the millet also exhibits a host of antioxidants which help keep various diseases at bay.
Contrary to popular opinion millets do not need to be boring. Here are some finger-licking options you may want to try out.
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2. Millet biryani (Serves 2)
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NOTE: For chicken biryani, substitute chicken in the place of vegetables. The rest of the procedure remains the same.
3. Ragi pancakes (Serves 2)
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4. Millet burger (Serves 1)
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5. Ragi chakli (Serves 2)
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Edited by Yoshita Rao
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5 Millets to Help You in Your Weight Loss Journey & Creative Recipes to Try at Home - The Better India
