Are you tired of fad diets and tasteless health foods? The nutritious, versatile, and sustainable grain Ragi is your answer! Ragi, known as finger millets, is an excellent supplement to any diet because it comprises protein, fiber, and minerals.
But that's not all—this modest grain (ragi benefits) can also help you lose weight, enhance bone and liver health, skin and hair health, and even lower your cancer risk. In addition, Ragi requires less water and fertilizer than other grains, making it a sustainable crop. Read on to discover this wonder grain's many benefits.
What Is Ragi?
Ragi, scientifically known as Eleusine coracana, is a cereal crop that belongs to the family Poaceae. Commonly referred to as finger millet, it is grown in several regions of Africa and Asia.
Ragi is an annual grass with slender, erect, and tufted stems that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves of the plant are long and narrow with pointed tips, and the inflorescence is a dense, cylindrical spike that contains small, edible seeds.
Ragi is a staple food in several regions of Africa and Asia and is used to prepare various dishes such as ragi balls, dosa, porridge, and malt. In addition, Ragi has several other uses, such as animal feed, soil conservation, industrial applications, and health and beauty products.
Health Benefits Of Ragi
Why is ragi nutritional value valuable health benefits? Why Ragi Is Considered A Superfood? Ragi is often considered a superfood because of its numerous health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why ragi is regarded as a superfood:
Rich in Nutrients
Ragi is rich in many nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. It also contains several B vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. Being a protein source, it is ideal for vegans.
Manage Weight Loss
Ragi is a low-fat cereal that can aid in weight loss. Ragi for weight loss is another reason because it has a high fiber content and keeps you fuller for longer, reducing the frequency of snacking and overeating.
It also has a low glycemic index, which means it doesn't cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels that can lead to cravings and weight gain. Therefore, consuming ragi in the form of ragi flour (also ragi powder) benefits by making ragi roti or ragi porridge, which can effectively help achieve weight loss goals.
Good For Bone Health
Ragi is rich in calcium, which is crucial for bone health. It contains ten times more calcium than rice and wheat, making it an excellent food for people with bone diseases like osteoporosis. It also includes other minerals like magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, contributing to bone health.
Good For Skin & Hair Health
Ragi contains antioxidants like vitamin C that can help prevent premature aging and damage to the skin, including hair health caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the skin.
Promotes Liver Health
Ragi is an excellent food for liver health. It contains antioxidants and fiber that help detoxify the liver and promote health. Regular consumption of ragi can prevent liver damage and improve liver function.
Better Digestive Health
Ragi is high in fiber, which makes it an excellent food for digestive health. It helps in promoting regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. It also contains phytochemicals that help grow good bacteria in the gut, promoting gut health.
Helps Control Blood Sugar
Is ragi good for diabetes? Yes, ragi has a low glycemic index, which means it releases sugar into the bloodstream slower than high-glycemic foods. This can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a good food choice for people with diabetes.
Help Prevent Anemia
Ragi is a good source of iron, which is needed to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Therefore, incorporating ragi into the diet may help prevent iron deficiency anemia.
May Boost the Immune System
Ragi contains several nutrients, including iron, zinc, and vitamin C, essential for a healthy immune system. Therefore, consuming ragi may help boost immunity and reduce the risk of infections and diseases.
May Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Ragi has been shown to have cardio-protective properties and may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. This is due to its high fiber content and antioxidants, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation.
May Improve Cognitive Function
Ragi is a good source of essential amino acids, including tryptophan, converted into serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Therefore, consuming ragi may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.
May Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Ragi contains phytochemicals such as lignans and phytic acid, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. As a result, consuming ragi may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer.
May Lower Cholesterol Levels
In some studies, Ragi has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects, possibly due to its high fiber content and antioxidants.
Remember, ragi benefits and side effects should not be overlooked. For example, Ragi can benefit, but excessive use may also interfere with thyroid function, lead to kidney stone formation, cause allergic reactions, contain pesticide residues, and may not be suitable for infants under six months of age.
Celebration of International Year of Millets
The United Nations General Assembly declared the International Year of Millets for the year 2023 to promote the consumption and production of millets worldwide and to raise awareness about their health benefits, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Ragi (finger millet) is a nutritious and versatile millet variety that played a significant role in the International Year of Millets, particularly in India, where it is a traditional staple food.
An important look at ragi's part in India's celebration of the International Year of Millets:
1. Promotion of ragi cultivation: The Indian government and various state governments, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, have undertaken initiatives to promote the cultivation of millets like ragi. These initiatives include subsidies for farmers, distribution of high-quality seeds, and training programs on millet cultivation. For example, Karnataka, a southern Indian state, created "Ragi Belaku" to promote ragi cultivation and trade.
2. Ragi-based food products: Various food products based on ragi recipes have been developed and marketed to promote the consumption of ragi. These include ragi-based breakfast cereals, snacks, and beverages, which are being sold in supermarkets and online marketplaces.
3. Awareness campaigns: Various awareness campaigns have been launched to promote the consumption of ragi and other millets. For instance, the Indian government launched a campaign called "Poshan Maah" in September 2021 to promote the consumption of nutritious food, including millets like ragi.
4. Ragi-based recipes: To encourage the consumption of ragi, various chefs and nutritionists have developed innovative recipes based on ragi, which have been shared on social media platforms and in cooking shows.
5. Nutrition programs: The Indian government has launched various nutrition programs that include millets like ragi (ragi recipes) in the daily diet of children and pregnant women. These programs aim to address malnutrition and improve the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
What Makes Ragi Highly Valuable?
Ragi is highly valuable due to several reasons, including:
1. Value Addition
Ragi can be processed into various products such as ragi flour, ragi flakes, ragi noodles, ragi biscuits, and ragi malt. These items increase the grain's worth and make it more convenient to include in one's daily diet.
2. Nutritional Quality
Ragi is a rich source of dietary fiber, protein, calcium, iron, and other micronutrients, making it a highly nutritious food. In addition, it's a healthy option for people with diabetes because it has a low glycemic index.
3. Functional Properties
Ragi's functional properties make it a promising culinary ingredient like ragi dosa recipes, etc. For example, its high fiber content improves the texture of baked goods, and its low gluten level makes it acceptable for celiac disease and gluten intolerance. In addition, Ragi malt can be a natural thickening for soups, stews, and sauces.
4. Shelf-life
Ragi has a longer shelf life than other grains due to its antioxidants and anti-microbial properties. This means that ragi products such as flour, flakes, and cookies can be stored for extended periods without spoiling.
Ragi products' shelf life can be extended by storing them in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to prevent moisture and insect infestation. This makes ragi a convenient and practical food source, especially in areas with limited access to fresh produce.
5. Sustainability
Ragi cultivation requires less water and is more drought-resistant than other cereal crops. It is a low-cost cultivated crop and can be grown in marginal lands. Incorporating ragi into the diet supports sustainable agriculture and local economies.
Let's Toast The World Year Of Millets With Namhya Ragi Instant Breakfast Cereal!
Ragi for breakfast: Namhya Ragi Instant Breakfast Cereal is a delicious and healthier way to start your day. Made from a blend of ragi cereal, almonds, raisins, and oats, it provides a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to help you stay energized and focused throughout the morning.
Namhya Ragi Instant Breakfast Cereal is a healthy alternative to fast food. This cereal regulates blood sugar and curbs appetites with its natural components and low glycemic index. Diabetics and weight-watchers love it.
Ragi is a great way to support sustainable and environmentally friendly food practices during the International Year of Millets. Ragi, a drought-resistant crop, is perfect for arid farmers. By choosing Namhya Ragi Instant Breakfast Cereal, you're supporting local farmers and helping to promote a more sustainable food system.
So, whether you're a busy teenager rushing off to school or someone looking for a quick and easy breakfast option, Namhya Ragi Instant Breakfast Cereal is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day.
