5 Reasons Why You Should Add Millets To Your Diet

Millets are a diverse group of small-seeded, hardy grains, which are part of India's dietary traditions for thousands of years. Here is why you should add it to your meals.

Know Why You Should Add Millets To Your Diet (Image Source: Getty)

Nutritional Significance: Millets are an excellent source of protein and dietary fibre, and they are high in important minerals including iron, calcium, and phosphorus. They are also a great option for people with dietary restrictions and gluten sensitivity as they are a healthier substitute for commonly used cereals like wheat flour and all-purpose flour. (Image Source: Getty)

Environmental Impact: When compared to other high-input crops, millets have a reduced carbon footprint, which implies they demand less irrigation and synthetic fertilizer, making them a good choice for farmers in developing countries, where poverty and environmental degradation are major factors. (Image Source: Getty)

Promotes Sustainability: Beyond their nutritional value, millets contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture that enhance soil health and biodiversity. In addition to enhancing agricultural land's long-term productivity, this serves to conserve the environment. Due to their low water requirement, their ability to thrive in semi-arid conditions makes them ideal for regions facing water scarcity, contributing to water conservation in agriculture and promotes food security. (Image Source: Getty)

Climate Resilience: As millets require little water, they are very tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures. Because of their durability, they are less vulnerable to changes in the climate, which helps to maintain stable agricultural production even under adverse conditions. They are ideal for farmers with little land or water resources because of their short growth cycle. (Image Source: Getty)

Traditional and Cultural Importance: Millets have long been an integral part of diets in many cultures. They serve as the foundation for a variety of traditional recipes and cuisines that are deeply rooted in cultural practices and celebrations, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and success. While millets have varied cultural significance across various regions, they are perpetually of great significance in many communities, customs, and practices, adding to their diverse cultural tapestry. (Image Source: Getty)

Inputs by Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, Executive Vice-President, AISECT (Image Source: Getty)