My memories of this wonder cereal go back to my childhood. Millets of different varieties were part of our regular meals as per their seasonal availability. They were often considered the staple food of the less fortunate, as many families couldn’t afford wheat throughout the year.

As a child, I had no taste buds for millets, but there was no choice as our breads use to make from bajra (pearl millet) in winter and sorghum and wheat in summer. Given Rajasthan’s arid climate and sandy soil, farmers prefer cultivating crops with lower water requirements, making it the largest producer of different varieties of millets, especially bajra and jowar. In fact, these days, millets have become a fashionable food choice for the wealthy due to their health benefits and limited availability. Well, any good comeback needs some true believers.

Under the leadership of our prime minister, India and the United Nations designated 2023 as the International Year of Millets to raise awareness about their nutritional advantages and eco-friendly cultivation(my.gov.in)

Millets

Millets, a collection of petite-seeded grasses, are renowned for their exceptional adaptability to diverse climates and soil types. They best suit the corresponding seasons for utilization. Ragi, foxtail millet, pearl millet (bajra), and barnyard millet possess warming properties, and experts recommend consuming them during the winter months. On the other hand, sorghum, little millet, and proso millet possess cooling attributes, making them more suitable for consumption in the summer season. Jowar is a neutral millet which means we can have it throughout the year. Millet is a good source of protein, fiber, key vitamins, and minerals.

Health Benefits:

 a. Heart Health: Contains high levels of heart-healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They are also rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.

b. Diabetes Management: Individuals with diabetes consider millet an ideal grain due to their low glycemic index.

c. Weight Management: The high fiber content in them keeps an individual feeling fuller for longer, and curbing unnecessary cravings.

d. Digestive Health: The fiber content in millets promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and supports a thriving gut microbiome.

e. Culinary Delights: You can cook and enjoy millets as a pilaf, porridge, or in salads, and make delicious gluten-free bread, pancakes, and baked goods. With their mildly nutty flavor, millets complement both savory and sweet dishes.

DOs & Don’ts while consuming millet:

a. drink plenty of water and

b. make sure to cook them well,

c. too much of a good thing may not be always good so consuming in moderation is the key.

*Hypothyroid patients should be cautious in consuming millet, as they contain goitrogens which may interfere with iodine absorption.

Conclusion: Millets are ancient grains that are making a triumphant return to our modern tables. Millets offer great nutrition, health benefits, and culinary flexibility, making them a smart option for a healthier lifestyle. Including millets in our daily diet supports both our well-being and sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security. So, let’s celebrate the marvels of millets and savor their delightful flavors for a healthier and happier future.