Explore the health benefits of Finger Millet (Ragi) for better health and well-being.

Finger millet (Ragi) was once a common food in southern India but is now rarely seen in people’s diets. This is surprising because Finger Millet is very nutritious and has many health benefits. It is also a hardy crop, well-suited to India’s climate. Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, and is known for helping with bone health, controlling blood sugar, and improving digestion. It is believed to have originated in Africa and was brought to India around 4000 years ago. Despite its many benefits, it is often overlooked today. You can easily buy finger millet flour online to enjoy its goodness in recipes like laddus, cookies, and pakodas, and bring this healthy grain back into your diet.

Health Benefits of Finger Millet (Ragi):

1. Finger Millet has high protein Content.

Ragi (finger millet) has a protein content similar to rice, but some varieties have double the protein. What makes ragi special is the type of protein it contains. The main protein is eleusinin, which is easily absorbed by the body. Ragi also has important amino acids like tryptophan, cystine, methionine, and aromatic amino acids, which are essential for health but are often missing in other cereals. This makes ragi a great choice to prevent malnutrition. For vegetarians, ragi is an excellent protein source because it contains
methionine, which is usually found in animal-based foods. Ragi’s high protein content helps support overall health and is especially valuable in a plant-based diet.

2. Finger Millet is a great Source of Minerals.

Finger Millet is a rich source of minerals, with up to 30 times more calcium than other cereals. It is also high in phosphorus, potassium, and iron. Calcium is important for strong bones, making ragi a healthy alternative to supplements, especially for those at risk of osteoporosis or low iron levels. A study called “The Lost Crops of Africa” describes ragi as a “super cereal” and highlights its nutritional value. The study mentions that people in Uganda and southern Sudan, who eat ragi daily, have strong, healthy bodies, even though they often eat only one meal a day. This shows how beneficial ragi can be for overall health and well-being.

3. Finger Millet is helpful in Diabetes.

The increase in diabetes cases has created a high demand for foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and helpful plant compounds called phytochemicals. These compounds, found in plants, are important for fighting diseases. Many of these beneficial substances are found in the outer layers of grains, which is why eating whole grains is a good idea. Finger millet, in particular, has a seed coat that is high in polyphenols, a type of phytochemical. It contains 40 times more phenolic compounds than rice and 5 times more than wheat. Among all millets, it is similar to foxtail millet and second only to kodo millet in terms of phenolic content. Studies have shown that finger millet can help control blood sugar levels and reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to diabetes. Additionally, it has shown promise in helping wounds heal faster, especially in diabetics. This makes finger millet a very beneficial food for managing and preventing diabetes.

4. Finger Millet has Antifungal Properties and it makes you young.

Finger millet has been shown to fight several harmful bacteria, including Bacillus cereus, which causes food poisoning, Salmonella sp., which causes typhoid-like fever, and Staphylococcus aureus, a major cause of skin and soft tissue infections like abscesses and cellulitis. The phenolic compounds and antioxidants in finger millet are also key in slowing down the aging process.

Studies have shown that finger millet, along with kodo millet, can help prevent the cross-linking of collagen. Collagen is a protein that gives tissues like skin, tendons, and blood vessels their flexibility. When collagen cross-links form, it reduces this flexibility, causing stiffness often seen with aging. By inhibiting this process, finger millet may help maintain youthful elasticity in the body.

To enjoy the benefits of finger millet, you can easily buy finger millet flour online and incorporate it into your diet through various recipes, supporting both your health and aging process.

Final Words:

In conclusion, finger millet (ragi) is a highly nutritious grain with many health benefits. It is rich in protein, minerals like calcium and iron, and phytochemicals that help fight diseases and manage diabetes. Ragi also has antimicrobial properties and can support healthy aging by protecting collagen in the body. Despite being overlooked today, ragi is a great addition to your diet. To enjoy these health benefits, you can easily buy finger millet flour online and use it in various recipes, helping improve your overall health and well-being. Bring this superfood back into your meals for a healthier life!