Magazines

Subscribe to our print & digital magazines now

Subscribe

Exceptional Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Ragi

Ragi or Finger millet, which can be stored for fifty years without any damage, is an ideal grain to store for famine. Ragi is the most widely grown crop in Karnataka. It is also widely cultivated in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Updated on: 14 July, 2021 10:34 AM IST By: Priyanka Menon
Ragi

Ragi or Finger millet, which can be stored for fifty years without any damage, is an ideal grain to store for famine. Ragi is the most widely grown crop in Karnataka. It is also widely cultivated in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Ragi is commonly grown in areas with very low rainfall and no irrigation facilities. Ragi has a higher storage capacity than other grains. Among cereals, bran has the lowest (ragi) in finger millet (Six percent). But there are many nutrients in Ragi. In addition to calcium, phosphorus, and iron, protein is also found in Ragi.

Ragi is an excellent food for children. Ragi contains Vitamin A, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Iron, and Phosphorus. Ragi is rich in fiber which helps in weight control. Due to the presence of fiber and various energy organic compounds, ragi are digested much more slowly than other staple foods. Thus preventing excess calories from entering our body. Apart from children, ragi is an excellent food for hard-working people and diabetics.

Benefits of Ragi

Here are the amazing benefits of Ragi;

Ragi - helps to control diabetes

Studies show that they help reduce the risk of diabetes, as they contain more fiber than whole grains such as wheat, rice, and barley etc. They have a low ability to raise blood sugar levels. The phytochemicals contained in ragi helps to reduce the rate of absorption of carbohydrates and starches, which help control blood sugar levels. Lowers the activity of polyphenols in ragi and lowers cholesterol level, prevent cataracts caused by diabetes. Ragi is also good for gastrointestinal disorders.

Ragi is recommended for weight loss.

Ragi contains the amino acid tryptophan, which reduces appetite.  It should be eating for those who want to lose weight as it is a very low-fat grain

Good for bones

Ragi contains a lot of calcium. It also strengthens the bones as it contains vitamin D along with calcium. Helps in bone growth and development in children. It also maintains bone health in adults. Regular consumption of ragi not only causes any problems to the bones but also reduces the risk of fractures. Ragi is definitely something that the elderly should include in their diet.

Lowering cholesterol

The amino acids such as lecithin and methionine in ragi helps to remove excess fat from the liver and lower cholesterol.

Prevents anemia

Ragi is rich in iron and can be taken with ragi to prevent anemia. Sprouted ragi contain vitamin C. This helps in the absorption of iron. If you include it in your daily diet, you will not have to take any iron pills or tonics.

Helps in digestion

Ragi helps in digestion. Bowel movements normalize and prevent constipation.

Increases breast milk

Ragi is also good for breastfeeding mothers. It is also good for breastfeeding. Ragi, which contains iron, calcium, and amino acids, is good for both mother and baby.

Reducing stress

The antioxidants in ragi, especially tryptophan and amino acids, help to reduce stress. Relieves all stress-related problems such as anxiety, hypertension, depression, and headaches. Ragi also helps reduce migraines, cerebral pain, and insomnia.

Good for muscles

Ragi contains amino acids such as valine, isoleucine, and methionine which help in muscle function. It helps in metabolic functions and blood clotting. It also helps to accelerate growth hormones.

Test Your Knowledge on International Day for Biosphere Reserves Quiz. Take a quiz