PEARL MILLET (BAJRA)
Pearl millet is the most widely grown type of millet. It has been grown in Africa and the Indian subcontinent since prehistoric times. The three major millets cultivated in India are Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi. Bajra is also known as the pearl millet. These grains possess numerous nutritional qualities and are good for consumption by all age groups of people including infants, elderly, pregnant, and nursing mothers.
Nutritional Count Of Pearl Millets (100g)
- Energy- 1456cal
- Protein – 10.96 gm
- Dietary fibres- 11.49 gm
- Fat contents- 5.43 gm
- Carbohydrates– 61.78 gm
Good For Diabetes
- Pearl millets contain carbohydrates that are digested slowly and maintain a stable glucose level for a long period. This makes them a healthy food option for diabetics. Pearl millets are known to increase insulin sensitivity and lower the level of triglycerides. It is also very effective for controlling diabetes because of its high fiber content. It gets digested slowly and releases glucose into the blood at a slower rate as compared to other foods.
High Protein
- Those who are vegetarians cannot get the needed protein from meat and fish products. This is where pearl millets come in. The health benefits of bajra include its ability to provide the required protein to vegetarians as well. Bajra is extremely high in protein and it is good for weight management also. Pearl millets plays a vital role in strengthening your bones too.
Lowers Blood Pressure
- Bajra is known for its richness in potassium which is needed for those with high blood pressure. Consuming more foods rich in potassium will help flush out sodium from your body, which in turn will reduce blood pressure. Pearl millets contains good amounts of potassium and magnesium. Both these nutrients play an important role in lowering and balancing blood pressure.
Rich In Antioxidants
- Lessens free radical damage in the body and prevents early ageing, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, cardiovascular diseases, and aids in wound healing. Loaded with insoluble fiber that helps you lose weight, lower cholesterol, and lower blood sugar levels. These Millets contain phytic acid, tannins, and phenols which can contribute to antioxidant activity.
Prevents Constipation
- Benefits of bajra include promoting good gut health. In simpler terms, consuming the pearl millets will make sure you keep constipation at a distance. The reason behind this is the presence of insoluble fibre in bajra. Pearl Millet is rich in dietary fibre, which promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and supports overall gut health.
- Pearl millets or Bajra can be found in various forms for daily consumption. You can use it as flour to make flatbreads or dosa, grains to make porridge, processed grains as poha or upma for breakfast too. The enormous health benefits of bajra make it a perfect superfood, optimum for regular consumption by all.
