Benefits of Millet (Ragi)

Millet is commonly known as Ragi in India. It is also known as madua / mangal in Hindi. Ragi is a favorite food in Southern India. The benefits of Millet come from its rich mineral and nutrient content.

Nutrients that contribute to Benefits of Millet :-

Calcium ,fibre, iron, protein and different minerals.

Benefits of Millet :-

1] Bone development –  This  calcium-rich millet is excellent for  children and for people entering old age. Both these age groups require a constant supply of calcium for the growth and development of bones and for strength and protection against osteoporosis and risk of fractures respectively.

2] Maintain blood glucose levels –  Another benefit of millet is associated with its rich fibre content. The fiber along with phyto-nutrients in Ragi, slows down digestion and leads to slow release of glucose in the blood stream, thus helping to manage blood sugar levels.It is extremely beneficial for diabetics.

3] Helps in weight loss –  Tryptophan and fibre in Ragi  contribute towards this benefit of Millet. Tryptophan helps in lowering appetite and reducing the food intake, while its fibre helps in slower digestion, keeping you feel full for longer. Both these nutrients aid in weight loss.

4] Lowers the cholesterol levels in blood – Methionine and lecithin are the essential amino acids present in Ragi. These amino acids helps in removal of excess fat stores in liver. While Threonine helps in preventing the excess formation of fat in the liver. All of these together help in keeping the cholesterol levels at bay.

5] Helps in anaemia – Being rich in iron, It helps in conditions like iron deficiency anaemia.

6] Relaxes mind and body – Benefits of millet includes its relaxant properties. Tryptophan helps in relaxing the mind during depression, insomnia, migraine and anxiety spells.

7] Provides various amino acids –  Millet contains a variety of  amino acids.

• Valine – This helps in maintaining the nitrogen balance in body. Helps reduce wear and tear of  tissues, coordination of muscles and in metabolic function.
• Methionine –  A primary source of sulfur which is essential in the formation of glutathione, is present in abundance in Ragi. It also helps in elimination of fat.
• Isoleucine – It is essential to reduce wear and tear of muscles, blood formation and for skin and bone health.

8] Helps during lactation – Millet helps in increasing milk production during lactation.

Ragi can be eaten as Ragi balls, dosa and even idlis and is quite a hit in Southern parts of  India. You can also make laddus  or khakra or chapatis out of ragi. If you don’t like the taste, don’t give up on this healthy millet, but simply change the proportion. Instead of using only Ragi for your preparations, you can add a small amount of this millet to your dishes. You can make ragi porridge for your little on too. Being rich in such important nutrients, Ragi is a one-of-its-kind amongst all grain. It protects against degenerative diseases, malnutrition and premature ageing.

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