Pearl millet (Bajra) can be truly called as superfood for humans, birds and animals due to its nutritional benefits especially during winter season. This grains obviously a treasure trove of health benefits.
Pearl millet is cereal grain that has been a part of the staple diet used since centuries. It has an impressive nutritional profile and a rich history across the globe. The grain has been named after due to its round and pearl-like shape in white and yellow colour.
The average nutritional value per 100 grams of the pearl millet is:
Protein 10.96 gm
Dietary fibre , 11.49 gm
Fat Content 5.43 gm
Carbohydrates 61.78 gm
Energy 1456 KJ
The pearl millet fulfils your daily nutritional requirements particularly in the colder months when the body is in need for more warmth. The grain has much more benefits for human health but its top 12 benefits with be mentioned here:
(a). Reduces Risk of Cancer
Pearl millet is beneficial in reducing risk of multiple cancers. The high fibre content and antioxidant properties present in pearl millet help neutralize the free radicals and prevent colon and gastrointestinal cancers.
(b). Controls Diabetes
Pearl millet can serve as superfood for patients of diabetes. The low glycemic index of the grain helps prevent sudden spikes and crashes in sugar levels.
(c). Helpful to manage Gluten Intolerance
The pearl millet is naturally gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. It is an alternative to any gluten-containing millets and grains.
(d). Energy Level Builder
The low energy levels result in lethargy and constant fatigue and pearl millet can be saviour in such situation. It boosts energy levels and help you stay active for long. It is an excellent grain to add to your diet.
(e). Lowers Cholesterol
Pearl millet also helps reduce the harmful cholesterol levels in the body, which reduces the risk of heart diseases and maintains good heart health. The high fibre content in flour of the pearl millet benefits the heart and protects it from strokes and attacks.
(f). Haemoglobin Level Controller
Adding pearl millet to your diet also maintains the iron deficiency in the body. The grain is a good source of iron and regular consumption help increase your haemoglobin levels and prevent anaemia.
(g). Better for Bones Health
As age increases, our bone density depletes it is important to add foods that can help improve your bone health. The pearl millet has magnesium and phosphorus content which benefits the overall bone health.
(h). Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E are found in pearl millet in abundance with protect the body from any oxidative damage. These antioxidants also play a critical role in preventing premature ageing and chronic diseases.
(i). Anti-inflammatory Properties
People with inflammatory conditions can use pearl millet to reduce inflammation in the body and ease any discomfort. Some examples of fatal inflammatory diseases include Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease and addition of the grain to your diet can reduce the risk of these diseases.
(j). Aids in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Women of different age groups often suffer the extremely health condition known as PCOS. This is a hormonal disorder that can easily cause havoc in the body and lead to many unwanted symptoms. Usage of pearl millet by women with PCOS helps to regulate their menstrual cycles and preventing lifestyle disorders.
(k). Helps to Reduce the Risk of Childhood Asthma
The childhood asthma is a fairly common condition and pearl millet is good food choice for the little ones as it also helps to reduce the risk of childhood asthma. The whole grain has been proven to reduce the risk of asthma by 54% in children.
(l). Great Source of Protein for Vegetarians
Pearl millet is a good source of plant-based protein. Its flour is even more beneficial when combined with seeds like chana dal, moong dal, rajma and more. You can find more protein-rich veg foods that can help you complete your protein intake requirement.
Pearl millets is cultivated in various regions of Pakistan. It Punjab it is cultivate in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Muzaffargarh and Dera Ghazi Khan.
In Sindh, Tharparkar, Khairpur, Sanghar and Mirpurkhas areas are suitable for cultivation of the grain.
It Balochistan, the pearl millet is cultivated in Sibi, Naseerabad areas, Qalat and dry hilly areas of province.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it is cultivated in Dera Ismail Khan and Kohat areas.
