Did you know that about a third of the world’s population consumes millet constantly? This is thanks to its amazing health benefits. So get to know the most important Health benefits of millet It is considered one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world.

What are millet grains?

Millet grains are small, spherical, gluten-free grains. It is famous for its use in various countries of Africa and Asia (also known as gauris, or bishna).

This is because of its nutritional values. They are grains that are high in protein, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. There are also several main types of millet, such as pearl millet, finger millet, and small millet.

Pearl millet is the most widely produced and consumed type among humans, but all types are characterized by high nutritional values ​​and multiple health benefits.

The benefits of millet

Millet contains many nutrients. In addition to containing protein and fiber, it also contains vitamin E, vitamin B complex, potassium, calcium, iron, copper, phosphorus, and magnesium. And from The most important benefits of millet:

Benefits of millet for hair

Millet strengthens hair follicles and prevents them from breaking easily. It also improves blood circulation in the scalp, which helps stimulate hair growth.

Lowering cholesterol levels

Millet grains help lower levels of harmful cholesterol, due to the fact that they contain soluble dietary fibers, which produce a sticky substance in the intestines that traps fats, thus reducing triglyceride levels and increasing levels of beneficial cholesterol.

Benefits of millet for the skin

Millet improves skin elasticity by improving collagen production. Which in turn helps reduce wrinkles, scars, and tighten the skin. Thus preventing premature aging symptoms.

Diabetes prevention

One of the benefits of millet grains is also that it helps to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, due to the magnesium it contains. Which in turn helps to improve the efficiency of insulin and glucose receptors. Thus reducing the chances of infection.

Improve heart health

Eating millet grains helps promote heart health. Containing magnesium and potassium reduces blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The benefits of millet for the abdomen

Millet grains contain a high percentage of dietary fiber. So eating it on a regular basis may help improve digestion and treat digestive problems such as gas, bloating, and constipation. Thus reducing the risk of stomach ulcers and colon cancer.

Therefore, millet porridge is commonly used in Chinese medicine to treat stomach ailments such as indigestion and ulcers.

Improve breast milk production

Eating millet grains on a regular basis helps breastfeeding women improve breast milk production. This makes them more able to feed their children better.

Millet for the bones

Millet contains calcium. Which plays a major role in maintaining bone health, blood vessels, and reducing muscle tension (muscle contraction).

Millet damage

Eating millet grains, including pearl millet, is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate quantities, but excessive consumption may have negative effects on health, such as:

Anti-nutritional

Millet grains, like many legumes, contain some anti-nutrients that prevent the absorption of some beneficial nutrients. As it can interfere with the phosphorus, iron, and zinc that are eaten in the meal.

However, on the other hand, the effect of anti-nutrients can be significantly reduced by fermenting or soaking it overnight, then filtering and rinsing it before cooking.

Goiter

Millet grains contain polyphenol anti-nutrients, which may impede thyroid function, resulting in goiter. However, this effect is only associated with excessive intake of polyphenols.

Where one study found that goiter was more prevalent when millet grains provided about 74% of the daily calories required for a person, compared to 37% of the daily calories.

In addition, it is possible to reduce the effect of anti-nutrients, as we explained earlier, by soaking it at room temperature overnight, then filtering and rinsing it before cooking.