Ragi: Benefits of this wonder grain

Millet or ragi is quite popular in the Southern regions and is regularly used in the South kitchens. The grain ragi is in fact the staple diet in many villages across South India. Some health benefits of the grain ragi are- it is loaded with calcium, proteins, iron and other vital minerals necessary for the overall well-being of the humans. It is rich in fiber and contains very less unsaturated fat that makes it a perfect food for those who are on a weight loss program.

Some ways of including the grain ragi in your diet can be ragi chila, ragi porridge, ragi dosa, ragi chapatti, and ragi upma.

Dr. Ritika Sachdeva, a dietitian from New Delhi, says, "Because of its high nutritional value, Ragi can be placed at the pinnacle of food grains. The cereal is gluten-free and highly suitable for those who are gluten or lactose intolerant. Besides this, it can easily become a part of your daily diet in the form of chappatis or as porridge for breakfast."

Have a look at many benefits of ragi:

Healthy bones

Ragi is considered to be one of the best non-dairy sources of calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral for keeping your bones healthy and strong. Adequate amount of calcium can help prevent the onset of osteoporosis in adults.

Also read | Makhana- an Indian treasure trove of health

Managing diabetes

Regular consumption of ragi can also put you at a less risk of diabetes because of its high content of dietary fibers and polyphenols. It has a higher amount of fiber s compared to other grains like rice and wheat. Fiber-rich ragi slows down the pace of digestion thereby helping you in lowering blood sugar levels. It will also help curbing your hunger pangs and help you to maintain blood sugar levels.

Rich in protein

Ragi is a good source of protein as it contains all the essential amino acids like Valine, Threonine, Isoleucine, Methionine, and Tryptophan that help in muscle functioning, boosting metabolism, blood formation, quick weight loss, fighting anxiety and depression, and also promotes the release of growth hormones.

Helps in digestion

The high level of dietary fiber in this cereal aids in proper digestion, and preventing you from other stomach ailments. The insoluble fibers present in Ragi assist the movement of food through the intestines while the insoluble fibers retain water thereby easing the passage of waste. Including ragi in your diet can help you deal with constipation, bloating, and other digestive disorders.

Healthy heart

Ragi flour contains a good amount of magnesium and potassium which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Magnesium helps to maintain a normal heartbeat and nerve function and on the other hand, potassium aids in the proper functioning of the heart muscles and lowers high blood pressure. Fibre content and the amino acid threonine prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver and lowers the cholesterol in the body.

Stay healthy and fit