Millets occupy a unique intersection of nutrition and pharmaceutical benefit, earning the label of 'nutraceuticals.' Their bioactive compounds exert targeted effects on biochemical pathways, offering therapeutic value beyond basic nutrition. According to a 2024 Frontiers in Nutrition review (Jacob et al., 2024), millets demonstrate multi-dimensional nutrigenomic activity.

Core nutraceutical properties of millets:

Hypoglycaemic (anti-diabetic): Polyphenols inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes; fiber reduces postprandial glucose surge.

Anti-tumorigenic: Bioactive peptides and dietary fiber promote apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell proliferation.

Anti-atherosclerogenic: Dietary fiber and phytosterols reduce LDL cholesterol deposition in arterial walls.

Antioxidant: Tannins, phytates, phenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce oxidative stress.

Anti-hypertensive: Peptides and potassium support vascular relaxation and blood pressure reduction.

Anti-inflammatory: Quercetin, curcumin-like compounds, and ferulic acid suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Antimicrobial: Certain phenolic compounds inhibit pathogenic bacteria and fungi, supporting gut microbiome balance.

Immunomodulatory: Iron, zinc, and selenium in millets support immune cell function and host defense mechanisms.