Some of the best millets to eat daily include foxtail millet, sorghum millet, barnyard millet, and pearl millet. These millets offer numerous health benefits and are particularly beneficial for managing diabetes.
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Foxtail millet, also known as Kangani or Kakum, has been found to reduce blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and triglycerides in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Consuming foxtail millet as a regular part of the diet can help in controlling blood sugar levels and overall diabetes management.
Sorghum millet, commonly known as Jowar, is another excellent choice for individuals with diabetes. It has a low glycemic index, which means it causes a slow and steady rise in blood sugar levels. This property makes sorghum millet a suitable option for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and preventing spikes in glucose levels.
Barnyard millet, also called Sanva, is rich in dietary fiber and has a low glycemic index. This makes it beneficial for diabetes management by slowing down the absorption of sugar and preventing sudden spikes in blood glucose levels.
Pearl millet, known as Bajra, is a highly nutritious millet that offers several health benefits, including its positive impact on diabetes management. Pearl millet is rich in fiber and has a low glycemic index, making it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes. It also contains essential minerals like magnesium, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
It’s important to note that while millets are generally beneficial for diabetes management, individuals with certain health conditions should exercise caution. For instance, those with high blood pressure, malabsorption syndrome, or a tendency to develop kidney stones should be cautious with excess consumption of millets like bajra. Bajra contains high amounts of nitrates, phytic acid, and oxalates, which can potentially worsen these conditions.
In conclusion, incorporating millets like foxtail millet, sorghum millet, barnyard millet, and pearl millet into the daily diet can be advantageous for managing diabetes. However, individuals with specific health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to their diet.