Millets- What Are Millets, Types of Millets & Health Benefits

Millets, the small, unassuming grains are slowly regaining their popularity around the world. However, these ancient grains go as far back as 10,000 years, especially in the Asian and African continents. In addition, they have been an integral part of our ancestors food and lifestyle for ages. With the popularity of white rice, we have almost forgotten these humble yet nutrient rich grains. Moreover, with the rise of ailments such as diabetes, cholesterol among Indian population, the quest for healthy, traditional food is leading us to rediscover millets. Let's know more about what are millets, their types & health benefits.

Millets are a powerhouse of nutrients with countless health benefits. Additionally, they are rich in B vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron. A great source of fiber, they are also rich in protein, starch, antioxidants. Besides, millets are gluten free.

Millets help reduce the risk of heart disease, cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Besides, they help improve our overall digestive health. Looking to detoxifying our body? Try including millets in your diet.

There are numerous typesof millet. We know some of the popular ones like sorghum (jowar), pearl millet (bajra) and finger millet (ragi).

Here are some popular millets used across India with their regional names:

Finger Millet:

(Hindi: Nachani/Mundua) (Tamil: Kezhvaragu) (Kannada: Ragi) (Telugu: Ragula) (Malayalam: Panji Pullu)

“Creative Commons Ragi ” by Thamizhpparithi Maari is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Kodo Millet:
(Hindi: Koden/Kodra) (Tamil: Varagu) (Kannada: Harka) (Telugu: Arikelu) (Malayalam: Koovaragu)

“Creative Commons Kodo Millet” by Thamizhpparithi Maari is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Foxtail Millet:
(Hindi: Kangni/Rala) (Tamil: Thinai) (Kannada: Navane) (Telugu: Korra) (Malayalam: Thina)

“Creative Commons Foxtail Millet ” by Thamizhpparithi Maari is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Little Millet:

Little millet contains more calcium than wheat & is  given to babies due to its rich calcium content.

(Hindi: Kutki) (Tamil: Saamai) (Kannada: Saame) (Telugu: Sama) (Malayalam: Chama)

“Creative Commons Little Millet ” by Thamizhpparithi Maari is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Pearl Millet:
(Hindi: Bajra) (Tamil: Kambu) (Kannada: Sajje) (Telugu: Sajjalu) (Malayalam: Kambam)

“Creative Commons Pearl Millet” by J Wilson is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Sorghum:
(Hindi: Jowar) (Tamil: Cholam) (Kannada: Jola) (Telugu: Jonna) (Malayalam: Cholam)

Here are some easy ideas to include in these grains in your daily diet.

Rotis

Khichdi

Pulao

Porridge

Snacks

So, why wait to start eating healthy? Do you have a special millet recipe of your own? Share it with us in the Comments section.