If you want to add more nutrients and fibre to your diet, then it’s time to buy different types of millets. Millets have been a part of the Indian diet since ancient times as they are filled with minerals, protein and various other nutrients.

They are mostly grown in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Rajasthan. Originally, millets were referred to as the “poor man’s food” since they grow easily in even low water areas and infertile soils. They also played an important role in our ancestor’s diets before wheat and rice became more accessible after the green revolution.

But their health benefits are very underrated so millets should be part of every Indian’s diet.

Health Benefits Of Millets

  • Compared to rice and wheat, millets are very rich in dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble which helps proper digestion of food.
  • They can reduce bad cholesterol in your blood which helps protect your heart health.
  • All millets have plenty of vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants to support healthy organ function.
  • They are very fulfilling and can help satiate your hunger.
  • Millets are also very easy to cook and can be used to make several tasty Indian diseases.
  • Millets are very beneficial for diabetic patients as they don’t spike blood sugar levels like wheat or rice.
  • Millets are also gluten-free food and thus suitable for people on a gluten-free diet.

 Types Of Millets And Their Key Health Benefits

  1. Barnyard Millet: Also known as Sanwa or oodalu, barnyard millets are a great source of iron, protein and fibre. 
  2. Browntop Millet: One of the rarer millets, browntop millet has low glycemic index levels and is very good for cardiovascular health as it is rich in minerals and has a very low glycemic index.
  3. Finger Millet: Known as ragi in Hindi, finger millet has several amino acids and even good amounts of calcium which help support healthy bones.
  4. Foxtail Millet: Also called korralu or kangni, foxtail millets are rich in carbohydrates and fibre and very low in fat making them great for weight loss.
  5. Kodo Millet: Called kodra or Harka locally, kodo millets are rich in vitamin B and good for diabetes or blood problems.
  6. Little Millet: Best known as sama or kutki, little millets are a good source of magnesium which helps with blood pressure, vitamin D absorption and PCOD.
  7. Proso millet: Indigenously known as chenna or barr, proso millet  supports a healthy nervous system and is also rich in proteins.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         
  8. Pearl Millet: Most commonly known as bajra, this millet is a rich source of iron( almost 8 times more than rice) and has other minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Which Organic Millets to Buy Online?

All these different types of millets are a great addition to your diet so pick them based on taste preferences and nutritional needs.

At The Eco Store we source all these organic millets from farms that don’t use harmful pesticides or chemicals. Visit our shop in Bangalore or buy these organic millets online here