Advantages of adding foxtail millet in regular diet
Foxtail millet is obtained from Setaria cursiva. It is called foxtail millet due to its resemblance to the appearance of foxtail. It is included in the staple diet in South India and is also known as kora, thinai, navane, etc.
Nutritional value
Foxtail Millet is said to be a very rich source of carbohydrates, dietary fibers, protein, and high calories. It contains various vitamins like E, B1, B2, B6, niacin, folic acid and pantothenic acid. It also contains various minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, copper, manganese, etc.
Health Benefits of Foxtail Millet
The advantages of adding this product to the diet are many. Fox millet is easy to consume as it is easy to digest. It can be consumed by anyone since it is a hypoallergenic cereal. These grains have a low glycemic index and reduce the risk of diabetes as they help in the slow release of glucose, therefore they do not affect the metabolism and help control the blood glucose level.
It helps in detoxification as it contains a high level of antioxidants. Helps eliminate acidic elements from the body. Helps regulate body cholesterol levels by reducing bad cholesterol. Millet grains are loaded with dietary fibers that improve the digestive system and cure various digestive disorders. Helps reduce stomach pain and various gastric problems.
The content of vitamin B6 in foxtail millet helps the proper functioning of the nervous system. It even helps in treating patients suffering from anorexia. It lowers the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (Low Density Lipoproteins and Very Low Density Lipoproteins) and increases the levels of good cholesterol (High Density Lipoproteins). Thus, it reduces the risk of heart attack by protecting the walls of the arteries from any damage and coronary blockage, inhibiting cardiac arrest.
It is naturally gluten free. To maintain good health, a gluten-free diet is strongly recommended. A gluten-free diet results in increased energy levels, due to the rapid breakdown of food and better digestion. Containing no gluten, it is a boon for people with celiac disease caused by gluten sensitivity.
Some Popular Foxtail Millet Recipes
Khichdi foxtail millet:
Ingredients: foxtail millet, chana dal, vegetables such as carrot, cauliflower, peas, mustard seeds, garlic, etc.
Procedure: Soak millet and chana dal separately for some time. Boil the chopped vegetables with the millet and chana dal. Temper with mustard seeds and garlic to increase flavor.
Foxtail millet upma:
To start the day with a breakfast full of nutrients like foxtail upma is the best option.
Ingredients: foxtail millet, coconut oil, urad dal, mustard seeds, curry leaves, finely chopped green chillies and ginger, thin potato and carrot strips, onion slices, peas, salt, coriander, grated coconut halves of cashew nuts
Procedure: Fry the cashew halves in oil and set aside. Heat the oil in the pan and roast the millet until aromatic. Boil water in a pot then add the millet and cook until the millet softens and set aside. In another pan add urad dal and mustard seeds until golden brown. Add ginger, green chillies, curry leaves and stir well. Add the onion, carrot and potato and cook for a few minutes. Add the green peas and continue cooking. Add the millet and cook for a few more minutes. Garnish with grated coconut, chopped cilantro and cashew halves.
Ready to eat foxtail upma mix is the best option for those who are in a hurry to get to the office in the morning. Empty contents of packet into boiling water and serve hot.