Millet is a cereal crop with a centuries-old history. It has numerous he alth benefits. It is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It is an extremely versatile grain because it can be prepared in many ways, and it thrives in almost any conditions. Millet is used to make cereals, muesli, flour, bread, pasta snacks and products.
One of the most enviable qualities of millet is that it does not contain gluten. This makes it suitable for people who avoid gluten or have some intolerance to it. It can be successfully used instead of wheat.
What are the main and most important he alth benefits of millet?
It's full of nutrients
Like most cereals, millet contains a rich array of nutrients and trace elements. These include B vitamins, vitamin A, folic acid, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, according to he althline.com. Millet is extremely rich in protein and fiber. It is one of the best sources of calcium among cereals.
Rich in antioxidants
Millet is one of the best sources of antioxidants. It contains phenolic compounds that fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This makes millet an anti-inflammatory food that benefits the cardiovascular system. It has the property of protecting against diabetes, arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties, even some types of cancer, according to the International Journal of Food Properties.
Helps control blood sugar
Millet is found in different varieties. Some of them have a low glycemic index, some have a medium, and some have a high glycemic index. However, according to WebMD, millet is generally considered a low to medium glycemic index grain. Research cited by the publication found that people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes had better results in blood sugar and insulin control after replacing wheat products with millet products. Including millet in the diet contributes to the control of glucose and triglycerides in the blood, making it a suitable food for diabetics.
Promotes gut he alth
Millet is extremely rich in fiber. They are soluble and insoluble, which is an ideal combination for gut bacteria. The two types of fiber act as a prebiotic – they nourish the beneficial bacteria in the intestines and stimulate their work. This reduces the risk of colon cancer, maintains normal bowel movements, contributes to the quality absorption of nutrients from food.
For a he althy cardiovascular system
Millet is also useful for the cardiovascular system due to its high magnesium content. This mineral is involved in the control of blood pressure and the conduction of impulses from the nervous system to the cardiovascular system and muscles. Fiber reduces cholesterol and triglycerides, which also has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
