Why millet is considered a miraculous grain, know its main reasons
Kisaan Helpline
Agriculture
Feb 20, 2023
Indian Millets: India is the largest producer of millets in the world, and accounts for more than 40 percent of global consumption. Millet cultivation is the mainstay of rain-fed agriculture which provides livelihood to about 50 per cent of the total rural workforce and sustains 60 per cent of the cattle population in India. Millet is the most unique among cereals. The term millet includes a number of short-grained cereal grasses.
On the basis of grain size, millets are classified as major millets which include Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.)] and pearl millet/Bajra [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.] and minor millets Including finger millets [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn], foxtail millet [Setaria italica (L.) P. Beurav], little millet (Panicum sumatrans), kodo millet [Paspalum scrobiculatum (L.)], proso millet [Panicum milicum (L.) ] and barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea).
Millets are often referred to as miracle grains because of their numerous health benefits and the fact that they can thrive in harsh, dry environments where other crops may struggle. Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are widely cultivated around the world, particularly in Africa and Asia.
Some of the reasons why millets are considered miracle grains include:- Nutritional value: Millets are rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
- Gluten-free: Millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent option for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Low glycemic index: Millets have a low glycemic index, which means they can help regulate blood sugar levels and are a good choice for people with diabetes.
- Environmentally friendly: Millets are drought-resistant and require less water and fewer pesticides than other crops, making them an environmentally friendly option for farmers.
- Versatile: Millets can be used in a variety of dishes, including porridge, bread, and salads, and can be cooked in a similar way to rice.
Overall, millets are a healthy and sustainable food option that can help support both human health and the environment.
- Nutritional value: Millets are rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
- Gluten-free: Millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent option for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Low glycemic index: Millets have a low glycemic index, which means they can help regulate blood sugar levels and are a good choice for people with diabetes.
- Environmentally friendly: Millets are drought-resistant and require less water and fewer pesticides than other crops, making them an environmentally friendly option for farmers.
- Versatile: Millets can be used in a variety of dishes, including porridge, bread, and salads, and can be cooked in a similar way to rice.
