From Weight Loss to Gut Health: Why Kodo Millet Deserves a Spot in Your Diet

 

Kodo millet stands out as a gluten-free grain, making it an excellent choice for individuals with gluten intolerance. Its high lecithin content aids in digestion and supports nervous system health. Regular consumption of Kodo millet offers cardiovascular benefits for postmenopausal women by addressing issues like high blood pressure and cholesterol. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress and regulate glucose levels, benefiting those with type-2 diabetes. Kodo millet has also shown potential in alleviating conditions such as asthma, migraine, hypertension, heart disease, and atherosclerosis. These health benefits have sparked increased research interest in developing millet-based products, especially as populations in developing nations continue to grow.

Kodo millet grain is characterized by its high nutritional value: it contains 8.3% protein, primarily glutelin, and is rich in crude fiber, boasting 9% compared to wheat's 1.2%. With 353 Kcal of energy per 100 grams, it consists of 66.6% carbohydrates, 2.4% minerals, 1.4% fat, and 2% ash. The iron content in Kodo millet ranges from 25.86 ppm to 39.60 ppm, further enhancing its nutritional profile.

Nutritional Benefits of Kodo Millet : 

In Diabetes:

Consuming millet is linked to reduced diabetes risk due to its content of phenolics such as alpha glucosidase and pancreatic amylase inhibitors. These compounds partially inhibit the enzymatic breakdown of complex carbohydrates, thereby lowering postprandial hyperglycemia. Moreover, inhibitors like aldose reductase in millet help prevent sorbitol accumulation, reducing the likelihood of cataracts associated with diabetes.

In Aging:

Diabetes and aging are primarily linked to non-enzymatic glycosylation, a chemical process where amino groups from proteins react with aldehyde groups from sugars. Millets, including Kodo millet, are abundant in antioxidants and phenolics such as phytates, phenols, and tannins. These compounds are believed to significantly contribute to antioxidant activity, thereby impacting health, aging, and metabolic syndrome.

Millets Role in Fighting Cancer and Celiac Disease:

Millets are rich in phenolic acids, tannins, and phytates, which are classified as "anti-nutrients." These compounds have shown promise in reducing the risk of colon and breast cancer based on animal studies. Phenolics found in millets are particularly noted for their ability to prevent the initiation and development of cancer cells in laboratory settings.As the prevalence of celiac disease rises and the demand for innovative, flavorful, and nutritious foods grows, there is a burgeoning industry dedicated to cereal products made from grains other than wheat and rye. Celiac disease, an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by gluten consumption in genetically susceptible individuals, underscores the need for gluten-free options in food production. Millets, being naturally devoid of gluten, are increasingly recognized for their potential in developing foods and beverages tailored to individuals with celiac disease.

In summary, millet grains and their derivatives not only show promise in cancer prevention but also play a crucial role in meeting the dietary needs of individuals with celiac disease by providing gluten-free alternatives.

Millets Role in Cardiovascular Diseases: 

Obesity, smoking, inadequate nutrition, and physical inactivity are well-established risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. Across the globe, numerous countries are experiencing escalating rates of cardiovascular disease. Millets are renowned for their potent free radical scavenging activity, which plays a crucial role in lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.