5 Types of Millets for a Healthy Diet

Millets are nutrient-packed grains that should not be overlooked when structuring a healthy diet. Although these grains gradually faded away with time, they are now making a comeback since people have started to adopt healthier diets into their life. Incorporating organic millets into your diet and recipes in place of rice and wheat can be beneficial in more than one way. While there is a growing interest in millets due to its proven health benefits, a lot of people don’t know about the different types of millets they can choose from as well as their nutritional value. Below are 5 different types of millets and their benefits.

1. Foxtail Millet

There are many different recipes that can be made with foxtail millet. Not only is this type of millet great for weight loss, but it is also rich in Vitamin B12, a vitamin that is essential for maintaining a strong heart, smooth functioning of the nervous system, and is in general good for skin and hair growth. Additionally, it is rich in natural iron which helps reduce risk of muscular spasms and assists in easing restless legs syndrome in the body.

2. Finger Millet

Finger Millet is commonly consumed by fitness enthusiasts as a healthier alternative to rice and wheat. It is a gluten free variant of Millet, and is rich in proteins and amino acids that assist in muscle growth. For developing children, finger millet is a great choice for facilitating brain growth. It is high in calcium and has healthy concentrations of iron and other minerals that build a strong body and mind.

3. Pearl Millet

Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is one of the most widely grown millets in the world. Recent food research has found that pearl is beneficial for the prevention and management of numerous diseases, and has even been linked to having therapeutic qualities for the body and mind. It contains around 14% protein, making it one of the best sources of plant-based protein among all millet types.

4. Proso Millet (Common Millet)

Proso millet, or the common millet, contains a good amount of protein, carbohydrates, fats and dietary fiber for a healthy diet. It is also easily digested because it is non-acid forming. It has a low glycemic index and reduces the risk of type-2 diabetes.

5. Barnyard Millet

Barnyard millet is a good source of highly digestible protein and is also the least in caloric density compared to all other cereals. It is a grain which evokes the feelings of lightness and energy after consumption. A serving of barnyard millets gives about 75 calories and 1.5g of protein. Barnyard millets are also potent in antioxidants, which helps beat any complications with various diseases and health issues.