Little Millet (Panicum Sumatrense) is a quick growing, short duration cereal which can withstand both drought and water logging. It is an important crop grown for food and feed. It was domesticated in the Eastern Ghats of India occupying a major portion of diet amongst the tribal people and spread to Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Myanmar.
In India, its cultivation is mostly confined to the the tribal belt of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh.
Health Benefits of Little Millet
Weight Watcher’s Dream: Let me introduce you to a well-kept secret whether you are embarking on a weight loss journey or trying to lose those pesky extra pounds: Little Millet. Little millet is your ultimate partner in the war against obesity due to its impressive nutritional value, low in fat, calorie-friendly, and sporting a high fiber content. It naturally keeps you fuller for longer and keeps your cravings at bay, helping you to stay on track effortlessly.
Diabetes Friendly: Being a tasty substitute to rice, little millet is a boon for diabetics or people who are trying to prevent diabetes. Being loaded with fiber, the carbohydrates in little millet are absorbed slowly which means no roller-coaster blood sugar spikes and crashes. This controlled blood glucose acts as a consistent and long-lasting source of energy.
Heart Health Hero: Millets act as safeguards for your heart health. Little millet, loaded with potassium & magnesium helps to enhance your heart health and regulate blood pressure. The soluble fiber in millets also helps to manage cholesterol thus lowering the risk of heart disease.
Gut Health Guru: A happy gut is the foundation of a healthy individual and millets are fabulous when it comes to maintaining a healthy digestive system. Little millet, with almost 30% fiber content improves bowel movements, avoids constipation, reduces bloating, indigestion, thus improving overall gut health. Furthermore, a diet with adequate fiber content helps to reduce the risk of colon cancer. A healthy gut contributes to a well-functioning immune system, making it better equipped to tackle challenges and maintain our health. Little Millet being rich in various minerals and vitamins further supports the functioning of immune system.
Gluten Free Goodness: Gluten, a protein commonly found in wheat, barley, and rye, can be quite challenging to digest. For individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, consuming gluten can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, brain fog, swelling, and gas.In case you’re sensitive to gluten or simply looking to eliminate gluten from your diet, millets are a great substitute to wheat and other glutencontaining foods. They offer all the nutrients without gluten, making them a healthy and safe option.
