The barnyard millet is a wholesome grain over and above common cereal grains like rice, wheat, semolina (rawa). Its a great food for weight loss too.
Top 5 Health Benefits of Barnyard Millet
1. Low in Calories
Barnyard millet is a good source of highly digestible protein and at the same time is least caloric dense compared to all other cereals. It is a grain which makes one feel light and energetic after consumption. A serving of barnyard millets (25g, raw) gives 75 calories and 1.5g of protein.
2. Rich in Fiber
It is an excellent source of dietary fiber with a good amount of both soluble and insoluble fractions. The grain encompasses the highest amount of fiber in comparison to other grains and millets with a serve providing 2.4 grams of fiber. The high fiber content helps in preventing constipation, excess gas, bloating and cramping.
3. Low Glycemic Index
The carbohydrate content of barnyard millet is low and slowly digestible, making the barnyard millet a low glycemic index food. In today’s scenario, this millet becomes one of the ideal foods for diabetics.
4. Gluten-Free Food
Like all millets, the barnyard millet is gluten-free. It is an appropriate food for patients who are intolerant to gluten. The millet being easily available, quick to cook and good to taste proves to be an ideal wholesome alternative to rice, wheat and other less easily available millets.
5. Good Source of Iron
According to research on nutrient content on millets, some varieties of barnyard millet have shown to contain high amounts of iron (18.6 mg in 100g of raw millet) which was the richest amongst all millets and cereal grains.