Discuss the nutritional value of millets, including their high fiber content, rich micronutrient profile, and potential health benefits for local populations.
Millets are high in nutrition and dietary fibre. They serve as good source of protein, micronutrients and phytochemicals. The millets contain 7-12% protein, 2-5% fat, 65-75% carbohydrates and 15-20% dietary fibre. The essential amino acid profile of the millet protein is better than various cereals such as maize. Proso millet is a rich source of vitamins and minerals such as iron (Fe), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), vitamin B-complex, niacin, and folic acid. Proso millet contains essential amino acids in significantly higher quantities, except for lysine, the limiting amino acid. Finger millet one of the minor cereals, is known for several health benefits and some of the health benefits are attributed to its polyphenol and dietary fiber contents. It is an important staple food in India for people of low income groups. Millets are a whole grain that's packed with protein, antioxidants, and nutrients. They may have numerous health benefits, such as helping lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Plus, they're gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for people who have celiac disease or follow a gluten-free diet. Millets are found to be helpful with the reduction of weight, BMI, and high blood pressure. In India, Millet is generally consumed with legumes, which creates mutual supplementation of protein, increases the amino acid content, and enhances the overall digestibility of protein. Millet is a resilient small-seeded grass that grows well as a rain-fed crop under marginal soil fertility and moisture conditions in dry regions. The earliest domestically farmed cereal grain millets are Sorghum, Finger Millet, Foxtail Millet, Proso Millet, and Barnyard Millet. Millets have earned the reputation of being 'nutri-cereals' as they provide most of the nutrients required for normal functioning of the human body. The energy, proteins, good fats, minerals and vitamins that millets provide makes them a super-food. Millets are a nutrient-dense, low-carb alternative to traditional grains that can have a variety of health benefits. They are a great source of protein, minerals, and dietary fiber, and can be used in a variety of dishes to add nutritional value.