7 big reasons to make millets a daily habit starting today |

Over the course of a decade, millets have gone from being a “poor-man’s food” to becoming the stars of the nutrition world. What’s surprising is that it’s always been around- for over a thousand years, yet we remained blind to its qualities despite our ancients consuming it with relish and regularity. But gold, as always, shines due to its qualities. In the case of millets, they include impressive health benefits, versatility in usage, and sustainability in every sense. From giving you an energy boost to helping you maintain a healthy weight or merely diversifying your meals, millets are fantastic and transformational. As for reasons, the following seven form the most compelling to add millets to your daily diet:Rich in nutrients, including proteinAs a known nutritional powerhouse, millets are known for their essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and Vitamin B. Unlike refined grains, millets also retain their bran and germ layers, thus helping them maintain the entire spectrum of nutrients. Being high in protein, they are the acknowledged darlings of vegetarians and vegans. Be it finger millet (ragi) or foxtail millet, they are packed with plant-based protein that is necessary for repairing the body, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health.

High in fiber, they promote better and more complete digestionFor those struggling with digestive problems, millets are the best solution. Rich in dietary fibre, they help with better, faster, and more complete digestion, thus preventing constipation and supporting a healthy gut-based microbiome.As for high-fibre content, its presence is known to slow digestion, helping one feel full for longer and stabilising energy levels throughout the day. All these greatly help with weight management. Easy to manage blood sugar levelsWith their characteristic low glycemic index (GI), Millets are known to release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, helping consumers manage blood sugar levels in the absence of sugar spikes, a known with the likes of wheat and rice. For this reason alone, it forms the perfect diet for diabetics looking to control blood-sugar levels and bring a semblance of insulin sensitivity and long-term metabolic health.

Better heart healthBeing rich in fibre brings an additional advantage to Millets consumers. Better Heart Health. The higher levels of fibre significantly reduces bad cholesterol (LDL), in turn reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. Heart Health with Millets has another angle. Magnesium. With its high levels of the mineral known to aid healthy blood pressure levels, regular millet consumption also reduces inflammation and associated risks of heart disease. Gluten-free and best for sensitive dietsFor those suffering the scourge of gluten intolerance and/ or celiac disease, or wanting a simple gluten-free diet, millets are the true godsend and ideal alternative to wheat-based products. Be it breads, porridge, rotis or baked things, with Millets, it’s no compromise and great eating.An eco-friendly, sustainable dietMillets are about health, of the human body and of the environment. Counted among the most sustainable crops grown worldwide, they require minimal water and can grow in the poorest soils. From temperate to arid regions, you find Millets in one form or the other worldwide- except the polar regions. What it means is that by increasing their consumption, humanity can kill two birds with a single stone: more grains while using less water!Delicious, easy to cook and very versatileMillets’ most appealing aspect is their sheer flexibility. From breakfast through to dinner, sweet to savories, they fit each need perfectly. Some simple ways to bring in millets in one’s diet may include any of the following:

Replace rice with foxtail or little millet

To conclude, include millets in your daily diet. While a small change, it is sure to bring immense health benefits. With their numerous advantages, including low glycemic properties and gluten-free status, they are suitable for all ages and lifestyles. So whether you want to eat healthy or manage a medical condition, millets bring in a wholesome, delicious, and sustainable way of eating. In addition, it also saves the planet while using lesser resources.The article has been contributed by Ajay Kangralkar, Founder, SkyRoots Ventures LLP