Benefits of Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet is one of the oldest of all the cultivated millets. These are the major Benefits of Foxtail Millet which are Good for Heart, Fights with Diabetes,Gluten Free, High in Antioxidant, Prevents Cancer, High in Calcium content, Weight loss, Lowering blood Cholesterol, Anti Aging.

History: Foxtail millet is one of the oldest of all the cultivated millets. As per some records from China indicate that foxtail millet originated in china, while other varieties arrived in China from Africa. Cauterize foxtail millet has been found in archaeological sites of China, with various reports of origination dated it as more than 4000 years ago. From China it spread westward towards Europe. Foxtail millet is rich in dietary fibre, protein and low in fat. Foxtail millet releases glucose steadily without affecting the metabolism of the body. The cause of diabetes is rare among the population which consumes foxtail millet diet. Foxtail Millet grains are high in carbohydrates, with protein content varies from 6 to 11% and fat varying from 1.5 to 5%. They are strong in taste and are mainly used in making flatbreads and porridges or prepared and eaten much like rice. Foxtail millet in telugu is known as Korralu.

About the Plant of Foxtail Millet: Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is thought to be native to southern Asia and it is treated as one of the oldest cultivated millets. Foxtail millet is an annual, warm-season crop that grows 2–5 ft (60-152 cm) tall. The stems are coarse and leafy, and more slender than those of pearl millet. It can form one or more towering shoots. The yellowish or purplish plant is about 8-in (20-cm) nodding inflorescence is composed of the main stalk with many side branches. The seedheads are bristly and dense the convex oval, seed grain can be a variety of colours. Foxtail millet is grown in cooler, doughtier regions than other millets. It is widely grown most part of the China, India, Russia, Africa, and the United States. Foxtailmillet can grow in sandy to loamy soils with pH (potential of hydrogen) around 5.5–7. It will grow rapidly in warm weather and can grow in even in barren lands but, it has a shallow root system that won’t easily recover from the drought. It can produce one ton of crop on 2 ½ in of moisture which requires approximately 1/3 less water than corn. Foxtail millet has a high level of tolerance to salt water. This millet can grow in plans they usually grow at higher elevations (1500 m).

Nutitional values in 100g of Foxtail millet

Moisture                 12g

Calories                  351

Protein                    11.2g

Carbohydrate          63.2g

Fiber                       6.7g

Isoleucine               803g

Leucine                  1764g

Tryptophan             103g

Threonine               328g

Lysine                     233g

Iron                         2.8g

Thiamin                  0.6g

Niacin                     3.2mg

Lipid Fat                 4g

Riboflavin               0.1mg

Calcium                  31mg

 

 

Health Benefits of Foxtail Millet:

1. Good for Heart: Foxtail millet have the capability to regulate and lower the blood sugar of the body, it reduces the chances of blockage in the heart that results in cardiac arrest. Heart attacks take place since the arterial walls of the heart become blocked. Low sugar count in the blood reduces such risk.

2. Fights with Diabetes: People suffering from Diabetes who switch over to foxtail millet also display lower triglyceride levels in the blood. It lowers the amount of LDL. Foxtail millet has a low glycemic index and it is an excellent substitute for rice or other grains that could increase blood sugar as energy is released slowly. Adding foxtail millet in your daily diet also guards against oxidative damage and coronary diseases. Whereas rice may be devoid of essential minerals and vitamins, foxtail millet has fair amounts of both beside being rich in all amino acids, making a healthy food for diabetics.

3. Gluten Free: A gluten-free diet is naturally good for health, since it improves digestion, increases energy levels and helps in alter the cholesterol levels. Gluten free undoubtedly eliminate unhealthy food that is loaded with fat, glucose and fatty acids. In addition, you can also avoid processed food, which we all know is not good for the healthy life. Foxtail millets nutrition gives you your essential amount of vitamins and minerals. Foxtail millets can help you to build up a strong resistance against heart diseases and cancers. The unique benefit of foxtail millets helps you in eliminating viruses and germs in your body.

4. High in Antioxidant: The abundance of antioxidants, mainly (Tryptophan and amino acids) in Foxtail Millet helps in fighting damage causing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. It also helps in relieving stress related ailments like anxiety, hypertension, depression, and headaches. It works amazingly in relieving sleep disorders like Insomnia along with cerebral pains and Migraine.

5. Prevents Cancer:  By eating more than 30g of fiber every day women can easily reduce their chances of breast cancer by more than 50%. Research has revealed fiber as the easiest and best ways to forbid the outbreak of breast cancer in women. Breast cancer is one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer, this is a tip that every woman should consider.

6. High in Calcium content: Foxtail Millet is rich in Calcium which is very important for strengthening bones. It also contains D vitamin. Foxtail millet consumption helps in the development of bones in children and supports to maintain bone health in adults. Sprouted Foxtail millet helps to fight diseases such as osteoporosis at bay and could reduce a risk of fracture.

7. Weight loss: Foxtail contains an amino acid (Tryptophan) which will trim your appetite and helps to tighten your belly. Foxtail millet gets digested at a slower rate thus keeps one away from in taking extra calories. The fibers present in foxtail millet give a feeling of fullness which helps to controls excessive food consumption.

8. Lowering blood Cholesterol: Foxtail millet contains amino acids (Lecithin and Methionine) which lessen the cholesterol level by driving out the excess fat from the Liver. Foxtail Millet also contains amino acid (Threonine) which hinders the formation of fat in the liver, which makes the cholesterol level of the body sink.

9. Anti Aging: The grain has anti-aging properties. By adding Foxtail millet in your diet, you can have a smooth, youthful skin thanks because the amino acids such as (lysine and methionine) which help in the formation of collagen, which helps in slowing appearance of wrinkles. Foxtail millet is known to inhibit cross-linking of collagen. Cross-linking of collagen happens when molecules forms cross-links between and within collagen molecules in the skin, tendons, and blood vessels. Cross-linking of collagen reduces elasticity and leads to stiffness. This is mostly associated with aging.

10. Brain Growth: Iron helps in the brain development. It supplies oxygen to the brain as it uses about 20% of blood oxygen. Iron is directly associated with the brain functions. The adequate amount of blood if received by the brain helps to promote the cognition and prevents Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This will supply adequate amount of iron which is essential for the brain oxygenation.

 

 

Ancient Use of Foxtail Millet:

Foxtail millets are a healthy part of both western and ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine, foxtail millets are used to make medicine sweet, light and dry. This makes them useful because they are nourishing as well as satisfying, but also light and easily digestible. In western medic, foxtail millets are a non-acid forming food, non-glutinous, and highly nutritious. This makes them easily digestible, soothing and are useful for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Foxtail millets have a higher presence of phosphorus, potassium, iron and magnesium. Foxtail millets  are very rich in calcium, 10 times more of rice or wheat. Foxtail millets are  high on the Glycemic Index , so it was prepared with  some high quality oil, like pure desi ghee and with high fiber foods, to slow the Glycemic Index of the dish.

 

How to Incorporate Foxtail millet in cooking:

Nowadays many households are adding millets in their daily diet. They look alluring because of their fiber content and protein with low-fat grains (they are actually small seeded grasses). Foxtail millets are easy to cook and can be adapted in many Indian recipes. You can Purchase best quality Foxtail Millets with us.

Foxtail Millet is generally cooked as a porridge as a healthy breakfast in the morning, but there are many other ways to incorporate millet in your cooking. You can add raw millet into quick breads, or muffins, quick breads for extra crunch. You can use millets in while making granola bars. Use Foxtail millet to thicken soups, or as a base for warm grain salads. You can also buy millet grits which are extremely quick-cooking and are wonderful in any preparation you'd think to use polenta or grits

There is no hard and fast rule in reworking Foxtail millets to any recipe, the Foxtail millets can be eaten with any gravy dish or with hot sambar or as a substitute for rice. A filling and satisfying meal coming together in very little time with minimal effort, more so if you have the side dish prepared or being prepared along the side. I love the flexibility millets offer.

 

Here are some delicious recipe’s to help you out:

Foxtail millet Salad

110g Foxtail millet, cooked according to packet instructions

1 tbsp chopped fresh mint

4 spring onions, including the green parts, chopped

2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

1 mango, peeled, finely chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

½ lemon juice

Salt according to taste

Pepper - a dash or two

Method

 

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix together.

 

 Serve with grilled chicken, fish or panner.

 

 

 

Spinach Millet Pulav delectably packs the supplements acquired from spinach and increase to a great degree salubrious fixing with Foxtail millet.

 

Ingredients:

 

    2 cups of water

    1 cup of Foxtail millet

    2-3 jeera

    1 bay leaf

    3-4 Black peppercon

    1 tsp of Ghee

    Chick peas ½ cup (Kabuli chana)

    1 inch cinnamon

    1 tsp Lemon juice

    ½ cup of  Onions

    1 cup of spinach chopped

    Salt to taste

 

Preparation:

 

    Wash the millet and soak in enough water for 35 mints.

    Soak chickpeas overnight and boil them with a pinch of salt.

    Heat the Ghee in a pan.

    When the ghee is hot, add jeera, peppercorn, bay leaf and cinnamon stick.

    Add Onions and fry then until translucent.

    Drain the millet and add it in the pan along with salt, lemon juice, boiled chickpeas and 2 cups of water.

    Keep the heat low and cover the lid and cook the pulav until the water is absorbed.

    Add the spinach just before 5mints of cooking.

    Switch off the stove and let the pulav rest for 5mints.

    Serve hot with raita and enjoy the food.

 

 

 

Foxtail patties

 

Ingredients required:

 

    2-3 tbsps of olive oil or any other oil.

    1 3/4 cup of water.

    ¾ cup of foxtail millets.

    ½ cup of breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese

    ½ cup of basil chopped one.

    ½ tbsp of Black pepper.

    1 tbsp of salt for taste.

    2 green chilies

 

Method:

 

    Wash the millets in and Pressure cook by adding  1 ¾ of water for 2 whistles. Once the cooker’s pressure is released, expel the millets, pound with a spoon and keep aside.

    To the Pounded millets, include every single other ingredients and blend well with fingertips.

    Add in 2 medium potatoes & breadcrumbs, boiled and pounded.

    Make 6-8 balls and level on your palm to make patties (you can give any shape to it).

    At this stage you could cover the plate with stick film and refrigerate for couple of hours until the point when you have to make them.

 

 

 

    Oil a non stick tava, on medium heat; put the patties in a single layer. Once the base side turns Golden colour, turn to the other side and cook for an additional 5 minutes until you get nice colour. Serve hot with ketchup, chutney or marinara sauce.

 

 

Proso- the Common Millet Which is So Special

 

The so-called "seed" or "grain" of Proso Millet is the somewhat egg-shaped fertile floret in which the hull is hard and shiny and firmly encloses the seed when it is shed. The grains are about 3 mm long by 2 mm wide and their color varies from brownish black through olive brown, orange-red, golden and light cream. Proso Millet grain can be used for human consumption, livestock feed and as bird seed.

 

Known in other English names as common millet, broomtail millet, hog millet, white millet, broomcorn millet, hershey, etc., the proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) is a cereal plant cultivated for its grain, mostly in Asia and North America. The word ‘Proso’, is an ancient Slav name which is used in Russia and Poland indicating how widely the grain was domestically distributed in these regions. Cultivated for its grain mostly, proso millet also produces enough plant material to be considered a forage crop. The forage quality of the straw is poor, and in India it is more often used for bedding than for cattle. The straw is also made into brooms. Panicum miliaceum may be a useful catch crop for emergency fodder. It was introduced into North America in the 16th century. Its popularity declined in Europe and the United States after the introduction of the potato and maize. It remains cultivated for human consumption mainly in eastern and central Asia, and to a lesser extent in eastern Europe (Russia, Danube region) and from western Asia to Pakistan and India. Most soils are suitable for proso millet, except coarse sand. It requires a temperate climate but is very adaptable and can be grown in too hot and arid climates or in rain shadow areas also. Sometimes the too shallow soils which are unfit for other cereal cultivation is good enough for Proso Millet. July-July is the right time for growing Proso Millet. Lowest requirement of water is needed for its growth but frost is bad for the crop. It is also beneficial in a crop rotation as it enhances weed control.

The so-called "seed" or "grain" of Proso Millet is the somewhat egg-shaped fertile floret in which the hull is hard and shiny and firmly encloses the seed when it is shed. The grains are about 3 mm long by 2 mm wide and their color varies from brownish black through olive brown, orange-red, golden and light cream. Proso Millet grain can be used for human consumption, livestock feed and as bird seed.


Initially originated in China, Proso Millet is cultivated in India, Russia, and Middle East, Turkey etc. Being the cheaper source of manganese as compared to spices and nuts, Proso Millet is grown for its health benefits like it is gluten free, has significant amount of carbohydrates, and healthy minerals in abundance plus this Millet can be grown very easily. Considering its usefulness, Proso Millet needs to be stored carefully. Basically given a dry and warm condition it can be stored for two to three years easily. It is eaten both as whole grain and cooked. Proso Millet Flour is added in a variety of dishes to make them better digestible and wholesome. Eaten as a salad ingredient or fried with vegetables or even as a breakfast meal, it is an all-purpose grain which can also be brewed as beer. It is time one should get rid of the idea that Proso Millet is a poor man’s food or a bird feed and process it technically so that its benefits can be harnessed for the upliftment of human growth.

Information Sources: /http://www.feedipedia.org/node/409

http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/87-025.htm

http://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/grains-oilseeds/proso-millet/

 

The Humble Millet That Toppled Rice

Kodo Millet or paspalum scrobiculatum as it is known scientifically, has been grown in India since 3000 years. It is a minor grain crop in India and most important in the Deccan plateau. This Indigenous cereal of India is grown in Uttar Pradesh in the north and Kerala and Tamilnadu in the south. Other indian states include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Bihar. It has many medicinal properties which is helpful in diabetes and rheumatism. A study done currently proves that  the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of this grain produced a dose-dependent fall in fasting blood glucose (FBG) and a significant increase in serum insulin level. This research has been able to identify five anti-diabetic compounds — quercetin (the major one), ferulic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid and syringic acid — from Kodo Millet and one chemical (quercetin) that prevents obesity. Apart from this the presence of phospholipids, fibre contents and low oil content makes this grain a true nutraceutical. Kodo Millet which is extremely drought and salt resistant and can be grown in gravelly and rocky soils should be encouraged for cultivation.

 

Kodo Millet or paspalum scrobiculatum as it is known scientifically, has been grown in India since 3000 years. It is a minor grain crop in India and most important in the Deccan plateau. This Indigenous cereal of India is grown in Uttar Pradesh in the north and Kerala and Tamilnadu in the south. Other indian states include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Bihar. It has many medicinal properties which is helpful in diabetes and rheumatism. A study done currently proves that  the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of this grain produced a dose-dependent fall in fasting blood glucose (FBG) and a significant increase in serum insulin level. This research has been able to identify five anti-diabetic compounds — quercetin (the major one), ferulic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid and syringic acid — from Kodo Millet and one chemical (quercetin) that prevents obesity. Apart from this the presence of phospholipids, fibre contents and low oil content makes this grain a true nutraceutical. Kodo Millet which is extremely drought and salt resistant and can be grown in gravelly and rocky soils should be encouraged for cultivation.

If we go by the Nutrition chart of Kodo Millet then per 100g of Kodo Millet will have 8.3g Protein, 3.6g Fat, 9g Fiber, 2.6g Minerals, 0.5g Iron, 27g Calcium and 309kcal of Calorie. The fiber content is much higher as compared to both Rice (0.2g) and Wheat (1.2g). It is known to have high amounts of polyphenols, an antioxidant compound. From medicinal perspective the grains, leaves, roots, stem juice, Rhizomes of Kodo Millet is used and is highly effective in curing various ailments like Diabetes, wounds, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rheumatism, etc.

Kodo millet is known as Kodra/Koden in Hindi, Harka in Kannada, Varugu Arisi in Tamil, Koovaragu in Malayalam & Arikelu in Telugu. Many who think of rice and wheat when the word grains come to their mind are not aware of this grain called Millet and the different types with their different names to such people sound like as if coming from some alien land. As some say ‘Seeing is Believing’ take a look at the following picture. This picture which seems like the usual pictures of dosa and idli is actually made not of rice but of Kodo Millets. These are, you can safely say, ten times better than the routine rice dosa and idli we consume in our regular meals. The texture of the idli is uniformly soft and spongy and the dosa equally crispy and its hard to tell the difference just by looking. Go to your nearest Millet store and try out Kodo Millet and feel the difference.

Information Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/Kodo-millet-helps-keep-diabetes-under-check/articleshow/25574439.cms

 

 

The Ancient Godly Millet

Barnyard Millet pongal, Barnyard Millet upma, Barnyard Millet Dosai, Barnyard Millet rice idli, Barnyard Millet adai, Barnyard Millet curd rice, Barnyard Millet Neeragaaram, Samak / Swang / Barnyard Millet Pulav, etc. A regular diet of Barnyard Millet reduces and eradicates the risks of Diabetes and controls obesity as it has lowest carbohydrates content and energy values.

 

Here is this crop which looks like a horse’s tail. So it gets its name as Kuthiravali. ‘Kuthiravali’ is a Tamil term for horse tail. But as they say, looks can be deceptive, it falls true in this crop’s case too. The grain that arises from this horse tail like plant is one of the nutritional millets. A Millet that is recommended during times of fasting is essentially vegan as well as gluten free. Does the term ‘Sama ke Chawal’ ring any bell? You got it, this Barnyard Millet is that famous Sama Ke Chawal that has been used since time immemorial during every fasting season. Not just rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, it is also anti-oxidant and has a protein content equivalent to that of Wheat and Maize. The following recipes are something that can be made with Barnyard Millets and eaten almost everyday and ofcourse on every fasting day:
Barnyard Millet pongal, Barnyard Millet upma, Barnyard Millet Dosai, Barnyard Millet rice idli, Barnyard Millet adai, Barnyard Millet curd rice, Barnyard Millet Neeragaaram, Samak / Swang / Barnyard Millet Pulav, etc. A regular diet of Barnyard Millet reduces and eradicates the risks of Diabetes and controls obesity as it has lowest carbohydrates content and energy values.

A common question that arise is ‘why Barnyard Millet during fasting days?’ Or why is Barnyard Millet ‘allowed’ in fasting and not Rice or Wheat? A simple answer to this query is that cereal grains are not to be consumed during fasting days. It is believed that Paap Purush (demonic character created by Lord Vishnu) in its personified form resides in the grain of rice with all its inherent sins and hence it should not be consumed on a pious day of fasting when the devotee tries to keep him/herself chaste and undefiled. There are other scientific reasons for this too which also support the same. Usually fasting days like Ekadashi, Ambubachi, Navaratras, etc. fall close to a full moon day or a new moon day respectively. A Purnima day and an Amavasya day bring about many changes in air pressure due to the position of moon in relation to earth. It is on Ekadashi day that there is an equilibrium or balance in nature with less gravitational force which is conducive for any human body to detoxify itself by remaining empty stomach throughout the day without consuming any heavy calorie rich food like rice or a non-vegetarian fare. This was fine till ancient times. But the kind of hectic and stressful life that we lead in modern times working extra long hours, it becomes necessary for the body to get regular food supplement so that it can successfully complete the burden of extra mental and physical work per day. As most of us still want to cleanse our body from all toxins by either following the age old rituals of fasting or as a result of sudden health consciousness fad, we need food supplement which will help by not diminishing our energy for the day’s work but also aid in completing the ritual successfully fulfilling the intended purpose as well. That’s how Barnyard Millet came in for rescue and became the ‘Vrat Ka Chawal’ or the popular fasting grain. We can also eat the foxtail millets, there are major Benefits of Foxtail Millet which is also most useful grain and helps to control the diabeties.

 

 

Little Millet is Not that Little (Samai in Telugu)

 

Little Millet (Samai) is Comparatively smaller in size than the other seven Millets, Little Millet or Kutki in Hindi, is the traditional crop of Karnataka. It is known as Same in Kannada, Samai in Telugu. A reliable cash crop that can be grown in any adverse climatic condition is known for its Millety virtues common and unique to its sister crops.

Are you gluten intolerant? Little Millet is what you are missing in your diet. No more wheat. Just stick to Little Millet.

 

Benefits of Little Millets (Samai)

 

 It is a perennial plant that grows upto one meter mostly in the temperate and tropical regions. Apart from India, Little Millet grows in China and Indonesia (The three countries being the origin of Little Millet). Burma, Malaysia, Pakistan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka are other counties where this Millet is grown commercially. It has a sweet taste which is different from other Millets. The various nutrients that it contains are- Carboxylic Acid, Cinnamic Acid, Flavonoids, Magnesium, Protein, Tannins, and Zinc. If you are suffering from acid reflux, ascites, constipation, dysentery, indigestion, etc. temporary health conditions then Little Millets medicinal properties offer you a dependable cure. It also is used in treating chronic ailments like Diabetes, Gonorrhea, Obesity. It has the alexeteric (for any kind of poisonous reactions or infections), alkaline (neutralizes acidity), antioxidant (the nascent oxygen produced in body due to our lifestyle, wrong diet and exposure to radiations is removed), astringent (to tighten up or tone up the weak saggy tissues) digestive (enhancing, toning and cleansing the digestive tracts to work better), emollient (used externally to contain mucilage, softening the skin forming a protective film), and stimulant (increases stamina and improves brain functions, positively affecting the central nervous system and the brain) properties.

 

Basically substituted for wheat and rice in all recipes, Little Millet is cooked slightly differently than normal rice or wheat. It is boiled in water like rice with 1:3 Little Millet and water proportion. Pressure cook the same with 1:2.5 proportion of Millet and water. Make sure you fluff the cooked Millet once it cools down a bit. Do note that Millets, as they are grown, in less water and any soil condition, are pest resistant hence require less or no chemical pesticides. In other words, Millets basically come to you in their organic form only so you are not concerned about any hazardous reaction arising due to pesticides in Millets. The ancient Indian Millet that was grown from our grandparents’ times should not be forgotten so easily, you can purchase Little Millet from Rich Millet. Think of any time and any recipe and you will be pleasantly surprised how most of them can have Millets as one of its ingredients thus making the recipe tastier as well as healthier. Rice and Chapati are easily replaceable we already know that but be it Rasam, Sambar, Veg Curry, Chutney, Side dish, Salad, or let it be soup, dessert, cake, or snacks, anything can have Millets in them yet retain the flavor in addition increase nutrient in them all. Let's pledge to replace at least one of our regular breakfast, lunch, dinner meals with Millet Recipes from today and see how it transforms our lives.

 

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Multigrain for Would-be-Mom & Baby

 

Are you pregnant? Worried about the correct daily diet? Driving yourself mad about food safety? Are you forced to eat foodstuff that you usually hate? As it is, worrying is not going to do you any good in fact it is not advised to take worries seriously during this time. Multigrain Atta as many would suggest, even the health books are teeming with praises for Multigrain blended powder, is one of the nourishing food that is good for you and the growing baby inside you. It is one food that you make your daily diet ingredient and be sorted. Consumed in any form be it a plain chapatti or baked into bread, Multigrain atta is ever wholesome. A variety of grain combo makes this atta a multipurpose food for any pregnant lady. In fact for anyone who considers health their priority, it is THE food. It is not practicable for us to completely let go of wheat so the best alternative is to reduce its consumption. Instead of eating just wheat, it is highly recommended that you replace pure wheat with multigrain. Being indian and with wheat and rice as our staple diet since time immemorial, it is sometimes unthinkable to completely replace our daily roti from our meals. Wheat being a major part of our meals the second best alternative is to use Multigrain atta which not only lets us eat our daily rotis and chapattis but also lets us off the not so healthy reactions that arises out of the consumption of just wheat or atta.

 

Healthy Food for Mom's and Babies

Are you pregnant? Worried about the correct daily diet? Driving yourself mad about food safety? Are you forced to eat food stuff that you usually hate? As it is, worrying is not going to do you any good in fact it is not advised to take worries seriously during this time. Multigrain Atta as many would suggest, even the health books are teeming with praises for Multigrain blended powder, is one of the nourishing food that is good for you and the growing baby inside you. It is one food that you make your daily diet ingredient and be sorted. Consumed in any form be it a plain chapatti or baked into bread, Multigrain atta is ever wholesome. A variety of grain combo makes this atta a multipurpose food for any pregnant lady. In fact for anyone who considers health their priority, it is THE food. It is not practicable for us to completely let go of wheat so the best alternative is to reduce its consumption. Instead of eating just wheat, it is highly recommended that you replace pure wheat with multigrain. Being indian and with wheat and rice as our staple diet since time immemorial, it is sometimes unthinkable to completely replace our daily roti from our meals. Wheat being a major part of our meals the second best alternative is to use Multigrain atta which not only lets us eat our daily rotis and chapattis but also lets us off the not so healthy reactions that arises out of the consumption of just wheat or atta.

Multigrains usually consist of wheat along with a combination of jowar, bajra, ragi, barley, soya, flax seeds, oats, corn, etc. in different proportions. Only thing one has to consider is that the multigrain atta consists of whole grains and is not labelled as ‘refined’ or ‘enriched’ as such products will not bring any positive result to you or to your baby. Whole grains which are organic will have most of the vitamins and minerals not forgetting the plentitude of fiber. This fiber content is an important inclusion as it usually prevents conditions like hemorrhoids and constipation which are common during any pregnancy and needs to be avoided. The combination of different grains bolsters the atta with valuable nutrients like iron, selenium, magnesium, B-vitamins, etc., which are so very important for the growth of every part of the baby at the same time provides the much required energy to the baby which is constantly gaining weight and growing bigger. The strength and growth of placenta enclosing the foetus also gets nourished by these grains. Multigrain atta is not only used in making the indian flat bread but also is used in making cakes, biscuits, muffin, bagel, bun, pita bread, noodles, etc. Such flexibility in variety provides the much needed change of taste to appease the intermittent cravings that mostly all pregnant women go through during their term. The presence of barley is one ingredient that reduces swollen feet among pregnant women. Millets are helpful in increasing bone density of the unborn baby. Millets also makes the nervous system healthy and stops any physical or mental defects in the baby that might surface due to lack of any particular nutrient. Along with multigrain diet water intake should also be kept in mind all the time. At least 1.5 liters or eight to twelve glasses of water is the daily requirement of fluid in body during pregnancy. Fluids keeps you hydrated and supplies all nutrients through your blood to your baby. It is also notable that although multigrain is beneficial during pregnancy it is NOT the only substitute for all nutrient requirements during pregnancy. Fruits, vegetables, and other vegetarian and non vegetarian diets are to be followed too as per the doctor’s advice. These are really Good foods for Baby and Mom.

 

 

 Ragi - Why Keep Finger Millets At Your Finger Tips?

 

 

Yes, this is an important question. But first let us know what Finger Millets are.

It is a small-seeded species of cereal crop or grain grown in the arid and semi-arid regions of Asia and Africa (known to have been in cultivation in East Asia for the last 10,000 years), which is commonly known as finger millet, African finger millet, caracan millet, and koracan. The most common name of this Millet is Ragi which is originally the name of Finger Millet in Kannada Language where it is the main ingredient of Karnataka staple diet. If you have an agronomic interest in growing Ragi then know that it is very adaptable to higher elevations which is why it is grown in the Himalayan regions as high as up to 2,300 metres. You can safely intercrop Ragi with other  legumes like peanuts, cowpeas and pigeon peas or other plants such as Niger seeds. Ragi is known for its potential to improve nutrition, boost food security and support sustainable landcare. It is discovered that Ragi formed an important part of prehistoric diet in Indian, Chinese Neolithic and Korean Mumun societies beating Rice and Wheat far behind. Foxtail Millet and Proso Millet or Broomcorn (Panicum miliaceum) were important crops beginning in the Early Neolithic ages.

 

As a breakfast cereal Ragi can be had as a simple and nutritious recipe. All you will need is milk and sugar (or jaggery if you are conscious of calories). Add a little ragi to your daily chapati flour and you can considerably reduce the gluten content. If you look into your grandmother’s recipe book you will find a sizeable number of traditional recipes made only of Ragi and other Millets. It is the darkest of all Millets, with a reddish hue and a hard texture. The nutty flavor common to all Millets is present in Ragi also. You will be surprised that the sweet Ragi porridge recipe is also to be found in Russian, German and Chinese cuisines. For it’s gluten free property, Ragi is being noticed in Western countries like the two American Continents. In India you will find Ragi in states of Rajasthan, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Goa where it is not only grown but also consumed in the form of various recipes like Ragi Balls or Mudde as side dish with Sambar or non-veg curry, as infant milk which is made with Ragi malt and is considered very wholesome for infants of six months age. Ragi is one grain/flour which is also offered to Gods and Goddesses during festivals in Tamil Nadu. In Kerala, Ragi as a nutritive powder is added to their traditional Puttu recipe of Rice and Coconut.

 

Thus Ragi can be safely considered a healthy alternative to Wheat for its mineral and vitamin content which is way higher than that of Wheat. Ragi is also a better replacement for polished Rice, Cassava, Maize, etc. and can also be made into cake, bread and pudding. So, what are you thinking? Go ahead and discover Ragi and be its forever fan.

 

Magic seeds-Flax Seeds,

 

They say Flaxseeds are good for pregnancy as it is the richest source of Omega-3 or ALA (Alpha-linolenic Acid). But it has other benefits also which are known to mankind since ages. Ask your grandmother and she will list out a hundred benefits related to flax seeds. Commonly known as Alsi in Hindi, and north western parts of India, it is also sometimes called Linseed. Among its many benefits, one prominent use of flax seeds is treating knee pain. Also most joint pains. We all know that flax seeds will reduce arthritis pain if consumed daily. The dosage is generally one to two tablespoons per day. And to get it’s utmost benefit, flax seeds must be ground into powder. This way it retains most of its goodness. People who complain of joint pains during the onset of winter season and find that this pain lasts throughout the chill, can get rid of the pain if they start having flax seed powder every morning during breakfast. The anti-inflammatory benefits of flax seeds not only reduce but completely cures the pains. The patients of arthritis also find remarkable change in their pain levels after using flax seeds for some time. Certain things are to be kept on mind before grinding the flax seeds into a powder. The first step is to roast the flax seeds for a few minutes till it starts crackling. Then letting it cool for a while before grinding into fine powder. To retain the content for longer period of time it should be filled in airtight container and kept in the refrigerator.

 

There is however another remedy for joint pain, especially for pain in knee joints. Unlike the aforementioned method this remedy does not include ingestion of flax seeds neither it is the anointment of flax seeds oil on the affected part. According to this remedy flax seeds are to be ‘wrapped’ around the digits or fingers of the person suffering from the pain. The left (or right) hand is taken as the whole body with the thumb representing the head, the index and pinky finger the two hands, and the middle and ring finger as legs. The first joint from the base of the palm or the knuckle is the knee joint. Depending on which knee joint you have the pain, you treat the finger accordingly. The treatment involves using flax seeds on a masking tape so that they stick to the full stretch of the tape and then the tape is to be wrapped around the joint of the knuckle completely so as to cover the whole part of the finger.. The bandage is to be kept for some hours so the best time is to do so is night i.e., before bedtime so that by morning the flax seeds have had done their magic. Soon after the bandage one can feel the crackling of the flax seeds which means that the healing process has started. So here is one easy way to deal with chronic pains. Try it out and see for yourself if the miracle remedy works for you or not.

 

The ABC of Jowar Cultivation in India - Jowar - Sorghum

 

Sorghum  are popularly known as Jowar is an important food crop grown across Indian continent. It is also a main fodder crop due to its nutritional value which is equivalent to corn. Apart from Rice, Wheat, Maize and Barley, Jowar is the fifth highest crop grown in the world. Not just a food and fodder crop, it is also used for producing ethanol, grain alcohol, starch, apart from paper and adhesives. Apart from the ‘heart healthy’ jowar roti, this grain is also known for its other health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidant and weight loss properties this Millet is gaining popularity at a tremendous rate. In India, states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana are major Jowar producing regions.

 

Being a tropical drought tolerant crop Jowar needs merely 40 cm of rainfall and a temperature that is not less than 16 degrees and more than 32. A well drained field is perfect for jowar cultivation as water logging will destroy this crop. A row to row seeding with 25 cm gap is sufficient for a 30 to 40 kg seed rate per hectare of Jowar cultivation. A ten to fifteen tonne of Farm Yard Manure (FYM) is added to the cultivated land of Jowar so as to make it micronutrient to yield a healthy crop. But a soil test is recommended for any kind of nutrient deficiency in soil before Jowar cultivation. Being a Rabi and Kharif crop, Jowar needs less water, like one to three irrigations in monsoon time or July crop, for summer crop six to seven irrigations, and for Rabi crops about four to five irrigations. Time to time weed and disease control is required for Jowar. Harvesting is done depending on single cut or multi cut. On an average in two and half months a Jowar crop is ready for harvesting. Jowar can yield upto a 1000 Kg per hectare when good farm management is practiced.