G20 Summit: 10 Millets from Bharat And Their Health Benefits

India is all set to host the G20 Summit 2023 at National Capital’s Bharat Mandapan Convention Centre on 9th and 10th September 2023. Leaders and delegates including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and others are likely to attend the event. All the international guests expected to attend the event will be served rich Indian cuisine including authentic Indian street food and millet-based dishes. Given that the UN has declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets, millets will take center-stage in the menu. 

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Millets, even though have been staple to India since centuries, have been gaining popularity these days. Most dieticians and nutritionists are vouching to include millets in the diet because of their high nutritional value. Ahead of G20 Summit 2023 where millets will be the focus of attraction, let us know about 10 different millet types and their lesser-known benefits. 

Pearl Millet  

Also known as bajra, pearl millet is known for its high protein and fiber content. It also contains other minerals like magnesium as well as iron. This is a gluten-free grain and could be beneficial in so many ways, especially promoting better digestion. 

Finger Millet  

Finger millet or ragi is a superfood and this is for a reason. Ragi is a powerhouse of calcium, iron, as well as several antioxidants. Ragi is ideal choice when it comes to supporting bone health, controlling diabetes, and weight management. One can have ragi in different ways and see the magic. 

Sorghum  

Sorghum or jowar, like other millets, is also packed with dietary fiber, protein, and many antioxidants. This millet promotes healthy heart health, promotes better digestion, and is gluten-free, making it a ideal choice for health freaks. 

Foxtail Millet  

Also known as kangni, foxtail millet may be small in size but is a storehouse of nutrition. Benefits: Low in calories, rich in fiber, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. It helps in managing blood sugar levels and weight. 

Little Millet  

Little millet, also known as kutki or samai, is known for its richness of fiber and protein. Besides, it also has micronutrients like iron and zinc. Apart from its several benefits, little millet is best known for its digestion-boosting properties. 

Kodo Millet  

Kodo Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Kodo millet aids in weight management and is gluten-free. Besides, it also helps in lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health.  

Barnyard Millet  

Popularly known a sanwa, barnyard millet is drought-resistant crop grown in Bihar, Haryana as well as Uttar Pradesh. This millet is low in calories and high in fiber. It is also a good source of B-complex vitamins and often consumed during fasting days. 

Proso Millet  

Proso millet or barri is yet another millet rich in protein as well as essential amino acids. This millet has high nutritional value and supports muscle development among its many benefits. This millet is gluten-free and extremely healthy.  

Browntop Millet  

Also known as korle or choti kangni, browntop millet is a lesser-known crop mostly grown in Southern parts of country. This millet is also rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. As per studies, it helps in maintaining cardiovascular health and keeps a check at cholesterol levels. 

Buckwheat Millet 

Popularly known as Kuttu, this is one of the most common millets often consumed during fast days. This millet helps in weight-loss and is also diabetic-friendly. It helps in reducing blood pressure and promotes good cardiovascular health.