Description

Pearl millets are basically the edible seeds of pearl millet plants. Technically, bajra is not a grain - it belongs to a family of small seeded grasses collectively referred to as 'millets.' They grow in various shades of white, yellow, gray, brown, and bluish-purple. The seeds are typically cooked as a cereal grain or sometimes finely ground and used as a flour. Being rich in proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, pearl millet is an overall nutritious carbohydrate source. It is also rich in beneficial plant chemicals like antioxidants, polyphenols, and phytochemicals, all of which are known for contributing to optimal human health in many ways. 

Health benefits

1. Pearl millets contain carbohydrates that are digested slowly and maintain a stable glucose level for a long period. This makes them a healthy food option for diabetics. ⁽¹⁾

2. Rich in dietary fibres and cholesterol-lowering properties of these grains are good for heart patients. ⁽¹⁾

3. Pearl millets are one of the few foods which reduce the acidity of the stomach thereby limiting ulcer formation and discomfort due to frequent bouts of acidity. ⁽¹⁾

4. High Iron and Zinc content in pearl millet helps in increasing hemoglobin. People with iron deficiency Anaemia must include Bajra in their diet to overcome the problem. ⁽²⁾

5. Pearl millet is recommended for curing stomach ulcers. Pearl millet is one of the very few foods that turn the stomach alkaline and prevents the formation of stomach ulcers or reduces the effect of ulcers. The high fiber content in pearl millet is also known to reduce the risk of gall stone occurrence. ⁽²⁾