6 minutes agoAuthor: Gaurav Tiwari
- copy link
‘Superfood of winter’ Today’s food in the series is – Millet.
In his famous program ‘Mann Ki Baat’ in winter last year, PM Narendra Modi had appealed to the people to increase awareness about millets. In the parliamentary party meeting, he had also appealed to the MPs to grow and eat more of it.
Our elders used to change their grains along with vegetables according to the season. In winter they usually ate only millet and jowar. Its nature is hot and it is also full of nutrients.
Millet is still grown today mainly in Africa and India. However, now its demand is increasing all over the world. Its special thing is that it contains complex carbs, so the body keeps getting energy gradually for a long time.
Eating marketa keeps blood sugar level under control, bones become strong and cholesterol level reduces. Eating it also reduces the risk of asthma and cancer.
so ‘winter superfoods‘Today in the series we will talk about millet. You will also learn that-
- What is its nutritional value?
- Eating millet reduces the risk of which diseases?
- Which people should not eat millet?
Grandmother used to make millet pudding
Grandmother used to make bajra pudding during cold days. The special thing was that she used all the superfoods in it. It also contained jaggery and sesame seeds. Earlier there were very few resources and woolen clothes. At that time our ancestors used to stay healthy only by eating these winter superfoods.
Millet is one such superfood of winter, which is very beneficial for our health.
Millet is rich in important nutrients
Millet contains many nutrients essential for the body. This is a grain which also contains adequate amount of protein. It also contains carbs and fiber essential for the body. See the graphic:
Millet contains lots of vitamins and minerals
Millet contains vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B6. Apart from this, it also contains essential minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. See in the graphic how many essential minerals the body gets by eating one cup of millet daily:
Millet is very beneficial in winter
- The biggest benefit of eating millet is that it helps in weight management. Weight gain is a big problem in a busy lifestyle. This problem increases further due to reduced physical activity in winter. In such a situation, millet can be very beneficial.
- Eating millet keeps blood sugar level under control. This reduces cholesterol level and reduces the risk of heart disease. It contains adequate amount of calcium and phosphorus, which strengthens teeth and bones.
- The risk of asthma and respiratory diseases often increases in winter. Eating millet can reduce their risk.
Apart from this, what other big benefits are there, see in the graphic:
Some common questions related to millet and their answers
Question: How much millet should be eaten daily?
answer: Eating 1-2 servings of millet daily is considered safe. About 30-50 grams of millet can be eaten in every serving. Millet should be eaten in limit only.
Question: Can there be any side effects from eating millet?
answer: Generally there is no harm in eating millet. Some people may be allergic to some grains. If it causes skin rashes, itching in the body or burning sensation in the stomach, then it should not be consumed and a doctor should be consulted. Eating too much millet can cause gas, bloating and digestive problems.
Question: Who should not eat millet?
answer: These people should not eat millet:
- Those who have thyroid problems.
- Those who are allergic to millet.
- Those who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or any digestive problem.
Question: Is millet safe for gluten intolerant people?
answer: Yes, celiac disease patients have allergic reactions to gluten-containing grains. Whereas millet is a gluten free grain. Therefore, they do not face any problem by eating millet.
Question: Can eating millet cause kidney stones?
answer: Yes, millet is rich in oxalate. This along with calcium can cause stones. If a person has kidney stones or has had such a problem before, then definitely consult a doctor before eating millet.
Question: How safe is it to eat millet for those who have thyroid problems?
answer: Millet contains goitrogens, which affects the functioning of the thyroid and can lead to thyroid problems like goiter. If someone already has thyroid disorder or iodine deficiency, then his symptoms can be severe.
Question: Can millet be eaten in summer?
answer: Yes, any millet can be eaten even in summer. Although its nature is hot. Therefore, if eating in summer, other grains should also be mixed with it.
Question: Is millet digested quickly?
answer: No, millet takes a little longer to digest. The complex carbs and high fiber present in it take more time to digest.
Its advantage is that the stomach feels full for a long time. Our body keeps getting energy gradually. If millet is eaten in the morning, the body remains energetic throughout the day. Due to this, there is no desire to eat unhealthy snacks during the day.
Question: Can millet be eaten at night?
answer: Yes, it can absolutely be eaten. However, it should be eaten in limited quantity because the nutrients of market are not absorbed properly at night. Apart from this, there may also be a problem in digestion at night.
………………………….. Also read these news of winter superfood series 1. Winter superfood – one piece daily Jaggery will save from anemia: Make periods regular, beneficial in pregnancy.
Eating jaggery increases energy level. Along with many essential vitamins, it also contains important minerals like iron, magnesium and calcium. It prevents the risk of anemia and is extremely beneficial for joint pain. Read the full news… 2. Winter superfood- Eat 1 carrot daily, get 110% Vitamin A: Brighter eyesight, less risk of cancer.
Carrots are rich in vitamins A, C and K. It contains essential minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, potassium and copper. Eating it daily improves eyesight and reduces the risk of cancer. Read the full news…
