Types And Benefits Of Millets
August 6, 2020 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in Millets
Millets are a group of highly variable small-seeded grasses, it is grown as cereal crops all around the world. So, millet is a cereal grain that belongs to the Poaceae family, commonly known as the grass family.
Millets as consumed world wide especially in developed countries. Infants millets are also staple food in some areas. Millets are similar to cereals as they look like small grains or seeds.
The main reason for consuming more millets is that, millets are absolutely gluten-free grains. As many people are suffering from gluten intolerance. Millets are very helpful in this conditions.
Moreover millets are also rich in nutrients like protein, fiber and contains antioxidant properties. There are many types of millets that are consumed by people in their daily life.
Types of millets
We get millets from different size, shape and colour. Millets are classified into 2 types: Major millets and Minor millets. Let us know which millets come under major and minor millets.
1. Major millets
- White Pearl millet
- Foxtail millet
- Finger millet
- proso millet
- Sorghum millet
2. Minor Millets
- little millet
- Kodo millet
- Barnyard millet
There are some other millets which we will discuss later.
Foxtail millet is the second most widely cultivated species of millets. It is rich in dietary fiber, protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Especially, the benefit of this millet is containing low fat. Finger millet is used all over the world by every person. As it is rich in calcium, fiber, it can help to reduce anaemia, diabetes, cholesterol. Millets are also rich in amino acids which are building blocks of protein. Calcium is also rich in all millets as it is necessary for bone health, blood vessel and muscular contractions, and proper nerve function. Kodo millets are low in glycemic index.
Benefits Of Millets
- Gluten-Free
- Rich In Amino acids
- May Control Blood Sugar Levels
- Lowers Cholesterol
- Helps For Constipation
- Fights With Osteoporosis
- Increase Lactation
- Helps In Weight Loss
- Regularise Menstrual Cycle