Millets National Media Portal
Millets National Media Portal
Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), also known as Ragi, is the most widely recognized millet for enhancing milk production in lactating mothers. It has been used as a traditional galactagogue in India, Africa, and other regions where it is cultivated, and its nutritional profile supports the physiological demands of lactation.
Why finger millet supports lactation:
Galactagogue properties: Ragi is traditionally prescribed for nursing mothers to enhance both quantity and nutritional quality of breast milk.
Calcium density: The high calcium content (344–364 mg/100 g) replenishes maternal bone calcium depleted during lactation and enriches breast milk calcium for infant bone development.
Iron content: Supports maternal hemoglobin recovery after childbirth blood loss and breast milk iron quality.
Vitamin E: Supports maternal skin health and may contribute to breast tissue health during lactation.
Infant health benefits: Millets, especially little millet, are recognized for their importance in infant and child health nutrition.
B-vitamins (finger and foxtail millet): Thiamine, riboflavin, and B12 pass through breast milk to support infant brain and neurological development.
WHO-aligned recommendation: The WHO supports millet-based complementary foods for infants after 6 months, especially in communities where millets are traditional staples.
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