Foxtail Millet is the third-largest crop among the millets. Scientific name is Setaria italica. Foxtail Millet is the second most widely planted Cereal in India. It owes its origin to China. They are smaller seeds and their size ranges around 2mm. It is covered in a thin and a crispy hull. Foxtail millet is a warm region crop. It is majorly grown in arid an semi-arid regions. These are generally as the profit crop for small scale farmers. The growth duration of this crop is around 70 days.
REGIONAL NAMES
- THINAI in Tamil.
- KANGNI in Hindi.
- KORRA in Telugu.
- THINNAI in Malayalam.
BENEFITS
Lowers Bad Cholesterol
Foxtail millet contains a good source of amino acids including Lecithin and Methionine which play a crucial level in decreasing cholesterol by reducing excess fat in the liver. The presence of Threonine prevents fatty liver, further decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol.
Strengthens nervous systems
Foxtail millet is high in Vitamin B1, thus helping to prevent various neurological disorders. This nutritious cereal is also rich in iron content and helps reduce the progression of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and also helps provide more oxygenation to the brain
Boosts Cardiac Health
Atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries because of plaque build up, is the main cause of heart disease and stroke. A protein in foxtail millet bran called foxtail millet bran peroxidase (FMBP) can slow down the migration of colon cancer cells. The millet protein reduced the uptake of lipids by both cell types and reduced the migration of smooth muscle cells.Thus keeping the heart healthy.
Triggers weight loss
Foxtail millet is rich in dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates. These qualities of this millet make it a better option to choose for the weight loss journey. It takes more time to get digested in the stomach and keeps us fuller for a longer time and as a result, it is good for weight loss
Reduce Blood Sugar levels
Foxtail millet is an absolutely great substitute to rice as it keeps you satiated for longer hours. The trick is to consume cooked foxtail millet instead of rice in order to prevent those mid-day hunger pangs and avoid sudden spike in sugar levels. Being a low glycemic index food (50.8), it is an ultimate choice to help reduce blood sugars and Glycosylated hemoglobin.
Stronger bones
Foxtail millets are rich in iron and calcium, and thus maintain health of bones and muscles. It helps meet the calcium and phosphorus needs of the body for combating brittle bones, inflammation, osteoporosis, arthritis and spondylitis.
Good for Skin
Foxtail millet contains amino acids that trigger the formation of collagen and it helps in slowing the appearance of wrinkles on the skin. So it provides us with healthy, youthful, and wrinkle-free skin.
Helps in building Strong Immunity
As everyone is concerned about increasing immunity, Foxtail millet is a rich source of vitamins and minerals which boost immunity in our body. Strong immunity is required to fight against diseases. So including foxtail millet in your diet will improve your immunity.
Improves digestion
An unhealthy digestive system can be a risk of many issues, such as bloating, constipation etc. Therefore it is very important to maintain your gut health as well. Foxtail millet can be a very good option for improving gut health, especially for those who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Also, make sure to eat it with lots of vegetables get your fiber in, since fiber leads to better gut health.
Can help prevent Breast cancer
Research has shown that by eating 30g of fiber regularly, women can reduce the chance of breast cancer up to 50%. Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, which can be fatal for any woman. Foxtail millet contains a higher content of fiber which makes it a very good option to add to the diet. Moreover, it can help in reducing extra fats, which can also cause many hormonal abnormalities in women.