Millets, a group of small-seeded grasses, hold a profound historical and cultural significance as an Old-World grain. They have been a staple in the diets of Asian and African countries for thousands of years, serving as a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and these resilient grains. This rich heritage of millets, which connects us to our ancestors and their sustainable food practices, installs a deep sense of pride and connection in our dietary choices (Matthew et al., 2009).

Scientifically, millets are classified as belonging to the Poaceae family, which includes over 500 genera and 6,000 species. Millets come in various varieties with features and nutritional profiles (Jukanti et al., 2016).

Millets are adaptable and can be utilized in various culinary applications. Traditionally, they make flatbreads, beers, and other alcoholic drinks. However, their use has grown over time, and they are currently utilized as an ingredient in cereals, snacks, and health foods. Millets are gluten-free, making them popular among those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (Saleh et al., 2013).

Millets' climatic resilience allows them to grow in worse soil quality where other cereal crops, such as wheat and rice, may fail. Due to their short growth cycle, they require less water to develop and may thrive in places with shorter growing seasons. As a result, millets contribute considerably to food security in arid and semi-arid environments (Baltensperger, 2002).

Furthermore, millets use less water than other essential crops, such as rice and wheat (FAO, 2017). Millets are a climate-smart crop because they are critical to mitigating climate change and guaranteeing food and nutrition security in the face of increasing climatic instabilities. Given that agriculture is both a cause and a solution to climate change, encouraging the production of robust crops like millet has several environmental and food security benefits.

The world of millets is a diverse one, offering a variety of grains, each with its unique set of traits and nutritional benefits. Understanding these diverse nutritional benefits empowers us to make informed choices about our diet and health, giving us the confidence to select the millet variety that best suits our nutritional needs.

1. Pearl Millet: Pearl millet, also known as bajra or Pennisetum glaucum, is the most extensively farmed millet species worldwide. It is rich in minerals, including phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, as well as protein, fibre, and other nutrients. Its high iron content is especially advantageous for people who suffer from anaemia.

2. Foxtail Millet: This type, Setaria italica, is named after its resemblance to a fox's tail. It has a high carbohydrate content, making it a good energy source. It also contains protein, fibre, and antioxidants, which assist in decreasing cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.

3. Finger Millet: Finger millet (Eleusine coracana) has more protein and amino acids than rice and wheat. It is an essential source of calcium and other minerals for bone health.

4. Proso Millet: Proso millet, or Panicum miliaceum, is a high-energy grain with a sweet, nutty flavour. It contains many vital amino acids, B vitamins, and fibre. Proso millet also includes a high concentration of lecithin, which aids in maintaining a healthy neural system.

5. Barnyard Millet: This fast-growing millet (Echinochloa spp.) is considered a 'climate-smart' crop because it resists adverse circumstances. Barnyard millet is also gluten-free, making it excellent for gluten-intolerant people.

6. Paspalum scrobiculatum, or Kodo millet, has a high protein level that suits vegetarians and vegans. It also contains a lot of fibre, which aids digestion and keeps you at a healthy weight.

7. Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense): Little millet (Panicum sumatrense) has several health advantages. It is high in fibre, low in fat, high in B-complex vitamins, and high in minerals, including potassium, zinc, iron, and calcium.

Nutritional

Millets, which have traditionally been eclipsed by more prevalent grains such as wheat and rice, are gaining popularity due to their remarkable nutritional characteristics and environmental resistance. For starters, millets are an excellent supplier of essential nutrients. They are high in protein and fibre, which aid digestion, reduce appetite, and aid in weight reduction. Millets include antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. They comprise considerable vitamin B, magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc, among other vitamins and minerals.  They are particularly well-known for their high iron content, which helps them avoid anaemia.

Gluten-free

Second, millet is a staple in many gluten-free dishes and goods because it is a fantastic nutritious option for persons with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Additionally, compared to other cereals, millets have a low sugar content. Millets are an excellent choice for diabetes treatment due to their gradual release of glucose into the system.

Furthermore, due to its high fibre content and low glycaemic index, millet aids with weight management by producing a sensation of fullness, which keeps hunger at bay.

Cardiovascular disease fighter

Millets' cardiovascular advantages cannot be stressed. Due to their high fibre content, they have heart-healthy lipids and cholesterol-lowering effects. Millets help reduce heart disease risk by maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Digestive

Also, millet improves proper digestion and bowel movement by containing insoluble fibre, which prevents constipation and other digestive issues. Due to its gluten-free status, millet is regarded as a nutritious and healthful dietary option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Extreme weather resistant

Due to its resistance to extreme weather and capacity to thrive in subpar soil, millet cultivation can, from an environmental standpoint, support sustainable agricultural practices. This highlights the environmental benefits of millet and inspires us to support its consumption as an environmentally friendly option, making us feel like active contributors to a healthier planet.

While millet offers a plethora of health benefits, it is crucial to consume them in moderation. This responsible and mindful approach ensures we enjoy its benefits without overloading our system with goitrogenic chemicals. These chemicals, when consumed in large quantities, can interfere with iodine absorption and thyroid function, leading to potential health risks. Remember, dietary variety is vital to achieving balanced nutrition.

Millet has many health benefits, including weight management, heart health, blood sugar control, and digestive health. Its high antioxidant concentration is also beneficial in disease prevention. Due to its vast nutritional and environmental benefits, millet is a deserved component of any diet regimen. Let us make millet a crucial part of our diet. I encourage you to start incorporating millets into your meals and experience the health and environmental benefits they offer.

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