Why millets can never get a bad rap - Wild Date

By Rahul Budhrani

Why millets can never get a bad rap

Far from getting a bad rap, the year 2023 has been declared ‘The International Year of Millets’ by the United Nations. As the global agri-food systems face challenges to feed an ever-growing global population, mighty cereals like millet are a saving grace. These are affordable and nutritious options that should be part of your intake. 


Unlike rice or wheat, millets have been on the bottom rung of the food system in India and are referred to as coarse cereals -  an obvious reference to the external texture which is not smooth. All cereals are a rich source of carbohydrates but millets also come with a higher protein, dietary fibre, iron and calcium content than rice or wheat. This makes it a superfood with enhanced benefits. Millets have a low glycemic index, which means such foods have a lesser impact on blood glucose levels than other foods. In fact, to help the adoption of millet the Indian government has changed the nomenclature from coarse grains to Nutri cereals.


Millet is a highly adaptable grain that is a great source of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The potential health benefits of millet include protecting cardiovascular health, preventing the onset of diabetes, helping people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and managing inflammation in the gut.  


Here are some of the top reasons why you should adopt millets in your daily diet :


  • Millets are rich in phenolic compounds, especially ferulic acid and catechins. These molecules act as antioxidants to protect your body from harmful oxidative stress. This is especially helpful in skin health. Ferulic acid is primarily used to fight off free radicals, which play a role in age-related skin issues, including age spots and wrinkles.

  • Millets are a great alternative to gluten-rich grains. Millets are a gluten-free grain, making them a viable choice for people with celiac disease or those following a gluten-free diet

  • Regular consumption of millet is beneficial for postmenopausal women suffering from signs of heart ailments, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. They help women to combat the occurrence of gallstones because they are rich in fibre.

 

  • Millets are considered an ideal grain for people with diabetes. Since they are rich in fibre and non-starchy polysaccharides, two types of undigestible carbs that help control blood sugar levels, millets are said to have long-term benefits for diabetics.

 

  • Millets are said to contain soluble fibre, which produces a viscous substance in your gut. In turn, this traps fats and helps reduce cholesterol levels. This helps in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

But did you know, the best way to enjoy the benefits of millet is in a Wild Date snack bar? The Wild Date Beet and Little Millet bar is an excellent vegan option for snacking. It has no

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