Pearl millets are one of the oldest and staple crops that are grown in India since the pre-historic period. They are popularly known as Bajra.In addition, they are called Sajjalu in Telugu, and Bamboo in Tamil & Malayalam.
Bajra is considered the sixth most important crop in the world. India is the largest producer of Pearl Millet. In India, Rajasthan is the biggest producer of these cereals. Other than Rajasthan, these crops are grown widely in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana.
Furthermore, Sajjalu is a tough crop that will grow well in low fertile soil, drought conditions, and even in high temperatures. The Perl millets came to India from Africa in about 2000 BC.
Nutritional Value For 100 Grams Of Pearl Millets
- Energy: 361 Kcal
- Protein: 12gms
- Carbohydrates: 67gms
- Calcium 42gms
- Minerals 2gms
- Fat: 5gms
- Fiber: 1gm
- Iron: 8mgs
- Phosphorus: 296 gms
Health Benefits Of Pearl Millets
Reduces Levels Of Blood Sugar
Bajra is very effective in maintaining the levels of blood sugar. Since Pearl Millets are rich in fiber, they slow down digestion and further slowly release glucose into the blood. Also, it is a good source of Magnesium that is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes.
Reduce Cholesterol Level
The niacin in Bajra helps in reducing cholesterol. Furthermore, a chemical called Phytic Acid in Pearl Millets increases cholesterol metabolism.
Treats Iron Deficiency Anemia
A deficiency of iron causes fatigue as well as impairs mental development. Bajra is also a rich source of iron and also a new variety of Pearl Millets are cultivated that provide a high level of dietary iron to women. In a study, it was found that children under the age of 3 years with iron deficiency anemia met their daily requirement of iron with the consumption of these Pearl Millets.
Helps In Weight Loss
The complex carbohydrates in Bajra help in slow digestion creating satiety among consumers. It results in a lesser intake of calories and prevents overeating between meals.
Keeps Heart Healthy
The omega-3 fats present in the Pearl Millets help in lowering blood pressure and maintaining heart rhythm. Also, the magnesium present in Bajra is capable of preventing BP and it also lowers LDL cholesterol protecting from getting heart strokes.
Prevents Insomnia
Consuming Bajra regularly relaxes our body and prevents Insomnia. A breakfast with Pearl Millets keeps your day stress-free and reduces the chance of regular headaches to a large extent.
Relieves Constipation
Children who are suffering from constipation should be fed with Pearl Millets regularly since the fiber present in them makes the digestion process easy and relieves constipation. Besides, Bajra also reduces the secretion of bile juice and the risk of gallstone gets reduced.
How To Include Pearl Millets In Your Diet?
Traditionally, Indians make Bajra roti with Pearl millets and also khichdi. Moreover, it is a great cereal for winter. However, intake of these is not suggested for summers. To improve nutritional qualities, Pearl millets can also be added to dosa and idly batters.
Conclusion
Similar to all the other millets, Bajra is also Gluten-free preventing celiac diseases. Pearl millets are also rich in antioxidants and reduce the occurrence of cancer. The vitamin B content of these millets is good for the muscular system.