With more and more people turning health conscious, millets are getting back in vogue in the world of gastronomy. Ask any fitness enthusiast, they will swear by this ancient grain for its rich nutrient-profile. In fact, millets like ragi (finger millet), bajra (pearl millet), buckwheat (kuttu ka atta) etc today hold a constant position in almost every kitchen pantry. These Indian grains are loaded with protein, dietary fibre, vitamins and several essential nutrients that do wonders for our overall health - weight loss being one of the major benefits. Millet is also enriched with good carbs and helps regulate digestion. Moreover, it keeps one full for long. These factors make ragi, bajra etc ideal to shed some extra kilos.
But did you know that these ancient grains have a positive effect on our bones too? Yes, ragi and bajra are loaded with several essential minerals - making these millets ideal to strengthen the bones and ward off several joint-related issues.
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Bajra (Pearl Millet) And Ragi (Finger Millet) For Bone Health | Bajra And Ragi Health Benefits:
According to Anshul Jaibharat, a Delhi-based weight management and diet expert, "People with joint problems are generally recommended not to include excess grains in their diet. However, millet is an exception in the lot. Due to its nutrient-profile, millet is deemed great for bone health."
Ragi and bajra are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent inflammation and soothe joint and arthritis related pains.
- Ragi is a storehouse of calcium. It is touted one of the best non-dairy sources of calcium. As per the National Institute of Nutrition in India, 100 grams of ragi contains 244mg calcium. Hence, experts state ragi to be great for preventing osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fracture.
- Bajra, on the other hand, is loaded with phosphorus, which along with calcium, helps build our bones. According to consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta, per 100-gram bajra contains 42mg calcium and 296-gram phosphorus.
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How To Include Bajra And Ragi In Your Daily Diet:
Due to their popularity and extensive usage in world cuisine, today you will find various dishes made with these millets including chips, porridge, khichdi, salad etc. However, ragi and bajra roti remains the most popular in the lot, especially in Indian food culture.
How To Make Ragi Roti:
A popular Indian bread, ragi roti includes vegetables and spices that strike the right balance between health and taste. Pair hot and soft ragi roti with dahi and chutney and relish a delicious breakfast in the morning. Click here for recipe.
How To Make Bajra Roti:
Also known as bhakri, bajra roti is a staple in several parts of India. It is enjoyed the best when served with a dollop of ghee, sabzi and some gur by the side. Click here for recipe.
Eat healthy, stay fit!
About Somdatta SahaExplorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day.