Millets have always been considered as bird food. Lately, a lot of people are becoming more and more aware of the health benefits of millets. Millets are rightly called “the wonder grain.” They have so many benefits for your skin and hair too, which is why they are gaining so much popularity these days. Millets contain various nutrients including starch, magnesium, zinc and potassium. They also contain high levels of vitamin B and loads of healthy fats. There are many different types of millets:
- Pearl Millet (Bajra)
- Finger Millet (Nachani, Ragi)
- Foxtail Millet (Kangni)
- Kodo Millet (Kodra)
- Little Millet (Shavan)
- Barnyard Millet (Jhangora)
- Sorghum (Jowar)
Good for the Heart
Millets contain good quantities of magnesium. Magnesium has multiple benefits; it can reduce asthma and the effects of migraine. Magnesium has also been known to reduce the risk of heart attacks and lower blood pressure. The best way to maintain your cardiovascular health is by keeping your circulatory system in good shape and your blood pressure under control. It is also helpful for people with diabetic heart diseases.
Millets are known to reduce Type 2 diabetes. The high levels of magnesium found in millets are known to stabilize and optimize the efficiency of insulin and glucose receptors in your body. This, in turn, helps regulate your blood sugar levels.
Wonders for Weight Loss
One of the main reasons why ragi (finger millet) benefits for weight loss is because its natural fat content is lower compared to most others. The fats that do exist in ragi are all good fats. Ragi also contains an amino acid called trytophan which helps in reducing your appetite. If you are try to shed a few pounds, you might want to substitute your daily rice intake with ragi.
Millets contain high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to fight free radicals which can cause cancer. Antioxidants also help clean up multiple toxins from your liver and kidney by promoting regular and healthy digestion and excretion.
Get Rid of Hair Loss and Premature Grays
Surprising enough, there are many millet benefits for hair too. Your hair is mainly composed of proteins, also called keratin. Millets are packed with proteins. They help strengthen your hair and at the same time, reduce hair breakage by restoring the protein in your hair. Hair loss generally occurs due to cortisol levels in your hair. The magnesium content in millets help to control the cortisol levels which in turn reduce hair fall. The antioxidant levels present in millets help reduce corrosion of tissues which can decrease premature graying of your hair if taken regularly.
Protects You from Harsh Sun Rays
Millets contain vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin E which help protect damage caused to your skin by the sun. Millets also contain amino acids which help produce collagen in the body and helps give structure to your skin. That’s why millets are associated with reducing wrinkled skin texture, leaving your skin looking vibrant and lively!
Now that you’re all clued up on some of the many benefits of millets, you can consciously start including this superfood in your diet. It will help you keep the doctor away the natural way!