Millet is so nutritious, and is considered to be one of the most digestible and non-allergenic grains available. It has a sweet nutty flavor and is one of the few grains that is alkalizing to the body. It’s also sustainable, and cheap. I love it!
1. Millet is alkaline and easy to digest
2. Millet contains serotonin and tryptophan, happy hormones that will help promote a calm state of mind. Tryptophan has also been linked to better sleep.
3. Millet acts as a prebiotic – feeding the good bowel flora
4. Millet will hydrate your colon to keep you from being constipated
5. It is high in magnesium so will help reduce muscle cramps, cranky mood, the effects of migraines and heart attacks, lowering high blood pressure and easing asthma symptoms
6. The Hunzas – who live in a remote area of the Himalayan foothills and are known for their excellent health and longevity – eat millet as their staple foostuff
7. Niacin (vitamin B3) in millet can help lower the not so good cholesterol
8. Millet is a smart carb with lots of fiber and low simple sugars. Because of this it has a relatively low glycemic index and has been shown to produce lower blood sugar levels than wheat or rice. (Kamari and Sumathi, 2002)
9. Millet consumption decreases triglycerides so may be useful in preventing cardiovascular disease. (Nutrition Research. April 2010; 30(4):290-6.)
10. All millet varieties have loads of antioxidants. (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 9 June 2010; 58(11):6706-14.)
11. Millet is gluten-free and non-allergenic. A great grain for us with sensitive digestion
12. Millet’s high protein content (15 percent), is wonderful to include in a vego’ or vegan diet, or as a substitute to meat
13. It contains lignans, known to reduce the risk of breast cancer and heart disease
14. It contains a good deal of phosphorus – crucial to bone health, and is also key to the health of cells and fat metabolism.
Below – Millet and Pumpkin Patties, Millet and Coconut Porige, Steamed Millet, Millet and Cauliflower Mash. Similar recipes in my new book, and last 2. I love millet.
