Pearl Millet is one of the quick growing, summer cereal in India. It owes its origin to Africa. Generally, pearl millet is considered more efficient in utilization of soil moisture and has a higher level of heat tolerance. It grows on a wide range of soil types, but is best suited to light sandy soils. The growth duration of pearl millet is 2.5-4 months. Pearl millet is also regarded as a high quality feed for grazing, hay, or silage as it is high in protein and energy and low in fiber and lignin concentration.
REGIONAL NAMES
- KAMBU in Tamil.
- BAJRA in Hindi.
- SAJJALU in Telugu.
- KAMBAM in Malayalam.
BENEFITS:
Aid in weight loss
Pearl Millet has low calories and aims to shed kilos. It has high fibre content and thus keeps you energetic without actually increasing your daily calorie counts.
Lowers cholesterol
Pearl millet contains a chemical, known as phytic acid, which is proposed to increase the cholesterol metabolism, thereby stabilizing the cholesterol level in the body. It also contains the vitamin niacin, which reduces the cholesterol.
Lowers blood sugar levels
Pearl millet is very effectively used to maintain normal blood sugar levels. It has a high fiber content, which slows down digestion and releases the glucose into the blood at a slower rate, thereby helps to maintain normal blood sugar levels for a longer period.Good for Lactating Mothers
Lactating mothers should include pearl millet in their diet to increase milk production. In addition, pearl millet has three times the amount of calcium, which is present in milk. Thus, the consumption of pearl millet is beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
Treat Anemia
Iron deficiency causes generalized fatigue and impairs mental development in the body. Regular consumption of pearl millet can meet the daily requirement of iron for their physiological demands in the body. It also contains abundant amount of zinc, which is needed for normal growth and development of a strong immune system.
Perfect Food for Babies
Pearl Millet is an excellent food for the babies from six months of age. It is easily digestible and contains a lot of nutrients. Babies could be fed with millets after it is powdered and made into porridge. After one year of age, the children can be fed with flat breads made with pearl millet.
Prevent Insomnia
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, hard to stay asleep. It is mainly due to stress and anxiety. By regular and moderate consumption of pearl millet relaxes the body, brings in a calm feeling, and fights off insomnia. A light breakfast with pearl millet ensures a stress-free day without headaches.
Overcomes PCOS
One of the major reasons for PCOS is insulin resistance. If you balance protein and Carbohydrates the chances of insulin resistance are reduced. Pearl Millets are a rich source of protein and complex carbohydrates. They also reduce acne which is one of the symptoms of PCOS.
Gluten-free
Wheat is the most abundantly consumed cereal along with rice and corn, but it contains gluten, which is a protein that causes gastrointestinal problems like bloating, bowel syndrome. Conversely, pearl millet is gluten-free and is most commonly used as a substitute for people with gluten allergy.
Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants kill the free radicals that cause damage to the body at cellular level and the damage is associated with many diseases and disorders. Since pearl millets are a rich source of antioxidants, their consumption offers a great deal of protection against free radical mediated diseases such as cancer, arthritis, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.