Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is one of the most widely grown varieties of millet. Ever since prehistoric times, bajra has been generously grown in Africa and the Indian subcontinent. It is in fact one of the second most popular staple food crops after jowar being grown in northern parts of India. The high nutritional content of bajra makes it a super nourishing food for people across all age groups.
India is the leading producer of bajra in the world with 85% of it being produced in Rajasthan. Different states have distinctly named bajra in their local languages. Some of which are: Sajje in Kannada, Kambu in Tamil, Bajeer in Kumaoni, and Gero in Hausa.
Bajra is one of the most versatile ingredients ever known. It is exceptionally rich in B vitamins, minerals, protein, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that are prerequisites for mental and physical well-being. Through this piece of writing, let’s understand the key health benefits of Bajra and ways to add this superfood to the diet.
health benefits of Pearl Millet( Bajra)
1. Bajra for weight management
Bajra is extremely rich in fiber (complex carbs) content. This means it has the ability to provide satiety by suppressing appetite. Plus, it keeps you full for longer, curbs cravings, and prevents the urge to binge eat or overeat. This is extremely crucial for anyone and everyone aiming to reduce weight or lose fat.
2. bajra for gluten intolerance
Gluten sensitivity is one of the growing medical concerns of the 21st century. Gluten is a protein that is present in wheat, rye, and barley. People with gluten intolerance find it difficult to digest and metabolize gluten (wheat) resulting in abdominal cramps, bloating, vomits, diarrhea, etc.
The only way to deal with gluten sensitivity or intolerance is to eliminate gluten from the diet completely. This definitely means No Wheat! The good news is the superfood bajra is gluten-free. It not only provides the satisfaction of a complete meal but also fulfills a wide range of daily nutritional requirements.
3. Bajra for diabetes
High blood glucose levels are often considered the most serious medical condition. However, a well-balanced diet can help manage optimum blood sugar levels.
Bajra is usually recommended to people dealing with diabetes, the reason being it is power packed with protein, fiber, and magnesium. All of which are research-proven to control blood sugar parameters. Even though the glycemic index of Bajra falls in the medium range, its glycemic load is low making it suitable for people with diabetes by controlling blood sugar spikes
4. Bajra for a healthy gut
A healthy GUT is a key to strong immunity. A suppressed or weak digestion can result in a range of medical complaints such as painful defecation, constipation, abdominal cramps, and more. This can result in poor immunity. Bajra contains insoluble fiber that primarily works as a prebiotic. This keeps the bowel movement regular and the colon clean and healthy.
5. Bajra for controlling cholesterol
High cholesterol levels (bad fat) can result in a buildup of plaques in arteries. This can clog the blood flow resulting in high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. Regular intake of bajra keeps the arteries clean by controlling high cholesterol levels through its high fiber and good fat (HDL) content.
6. Bajra for body detox
Cleansing or detoxification of the body is extremely important for maintaining a healthy state of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Bajra is immensely rich in powerful antioxidants. These work specifically at body cleansing by neutralizing the adverse effects of free radicals and toxins that accumulate in the internal organs over time. This detoxification helps to keep the body clean, light, and robust.
how to add Bajra to your diet?
Bajra is a fun and all-around ingredient that swiftly folds with any or all of the dishes you can think of. However, some of the recipes that are extremely popular amongst fitness freaks include-
- Bajra moong dal khichdi
- Bajra chapati
- Bajra cheela
- Bajra thepla
- Bajra dosa
- Bajra idli
- Bajra cutlets, and
- Bajra porridge
At Soonya, we understand your purpose of adding millets to your diet and so we work at our best to bring 100% pure, fresh, and finely ground NammaMitti organic bajra to your doorsteps.
We assure you that NammaMitti bajra is absolutely free of all sorts of harmful preservatives and impurities and that the nutritional value is undoubtedly intact.
Frequently asked questions( FAQs)
1. Is Bajra Khichdi safe for a 2-year-old?
Definitely yes, bajra khichdi is protein and nutrient dense and easy to digest. You can definitely feed it to your 2 years old child.
2. How much protein is there in 100 grams of Bajra?
Approximately 11.5 grams of protein is present in 100 grams of bajra.
3. Is bajra good for nails, skin, and hair?
Bajra contains crucial nutrients like iron, zinc, niacin, folate, vitamin B6, and protein that helps to strengthen hair, nails, and skin.
4. Can bajra cause kidney stones?
People dealing with kidney stones should consume bajra in a restricted amount. The reason being bajra is rich in calcium and oxalates. These two compounds can accumulate in the body and further create kidney stones.
summing up
Bajra is definitely a super-super food. Remarkably low in calories and high in protein, antioxidants, crucial vitamins, and minerals like zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium, and more. For pure vegans or vegetarians, bajra is an excellent source of clean or plant-based protein. Those who lack one or more nutrients should frequently incorporate bajra into their diet. This can bring promising changes in the nutritional status.
Pure Bajra is perfect for everyone and anyone irrespective of age. It is easy to digest and Voila! It’s pocket friendly. Yes, it can fulfill all your nutritional requirements and cater to your health needs.
