Health Benefits of Finger Millet

Health benefits of Tamba (Finger Millet)

Listed below are few of the popular health benefits of consuming tamba.

1. Controls Diabetes

Regular consumption of finger millet has been found to reduce the risk of Diabetes Mellitus because of its high content of dietary fibers and polyphenols. It has a higher amount of fiber compared to rice, wheat or any other grains. The high level of fibers in finger millet slows down the pace of digestion thus helping in lowering blood sugar levels. It also has a low glycemic index that makes it an ideal snack to prevent late night food cravings and help to maintain blood sugar within safe range.

2. Reverts Skin Aging

Finger millet not only helps in maintaining proper health and keeping diseases at bay, but also works miracles for maintaining youth and vitality of skin by blocking premature aging. It can be used to be the most effective natural anti- aging drink. The vital amino acids Methionine and Lysine are present in the cereal which helps in creation and maintenance of collagen. It is a substance that supports the skin tissues to make it supple and lively thus making it less prone to wrinkles and sagging.

3. Battles Anemia

Finger millet is an excellent source of natural iron and thus a boon for anemic patients and also for those with low hemoglobin levels. Once finger millet is allowed to sprout, the Vitamin C levels tend to increase and lead to easy absorption of iron into the bloodstream. For the optimum absorption of iron, you can consume it in the form of Dosa or Balls, with plenty of vegetables and a generous squeeze of lime or a bowl of tangy Sambar.

4. Bone health

Finger millet is good source of calcium and helps joining bones. It is defined as excellent source of nutrition for growing children and aging person. Consumption of finger millet can help developing bones in growing children and maintaining the bone strength of adults. It is also instrumental in keeping ailments like osteoporosis away and can also cut down the risk of fracture. It is good for providing strength and cooling effect to your body in summer days.

5. Anti-cancer potential

Finger millet is also rich in antioxidants, which have sort of become a byword in health books today. Antioxidants prevent excessive oxidation (how surprising!), which could otherwise cause cancer and ageing because of cell damage. Phenolic acids, flavonoids and tannins present in finger millet seed coats have very effective antioxidant properties. In general, it has been shown that people on millet-based diets have lower frequencies of esophageal cancer than those on wheat or maize-diets.

6. Helps Digestion

High level of dietary fiber in this cereal aids in proper digestion, normal bowel movement and prevents constipation. Insoluble fibers present in finger millet assists movement of food through the intestines while the insoluble fibers retain water thus easing the passage of waste. Include it to your daily diet in order to protect your digestive system and avoid risks of constipation and other digestive disorders.

7. Increases Lactation

Finger millet is a great source of nutrition for new mothers that also help in improving the hemoglobin levels. Lactating mothers are recommended to include finger millet in their daily diet in order to improve milk production. It also enriches the milk with all the essential minerals for the body like iron, calcium and vital amino acids that is extremely important for the child as well as the mother.

8. Reduces Cholesterol

Finger millet has been proved to work wonders in bringing down blood cholesterol levels and is one of the best home remedies for heart health. It controls the cholesterol level by reducing plaque formation and preventing blockage of blood vessels thus cutting down the risk of stroke and other heart diseases. The key amino acids Lecithin and Methionine present in the cereal helps in lowering cholesterol by extracting and cutting out excess fat from the liver, and the amino acid Threonine prevents formation of fat in the liver. Finger millet, in the unripe, green form can also help in controlling high blood pressure and hypertension.

9. Relaxes the Body

Regular consumption of Finger millet is extremely beneficial in dealing with conditions of anxiety, depression and insomnia. Presence of antioxidants, mainly Tryptophan and amino acids, helps as they work as natural relaxants. As per a study conducted by MedIndia in 2000, its consumption is also useful for migraines.

10. Helps in Weight Loss

High amount of dietary fiber combine keeps the stomach full for a longer and prevents unwanted cravings. This in turn leads to a minimized appetite and weight loss. “Finger millet flour lowers your blood sugar levels in the body by activating insulin. As mentioned previously, it is best consumed in the morning to make the most of its qualities and keep you full through the day.