Bajra (Pearl Millet): Health Benefits and Side Effects

Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a type of grain that belongs to the millet family. It is widely grown and consumed in parts of Africa and Asia, including countries like India, Nigeria, and Niger. This grain has small, round seeds and is characterized by its pale yellow color. Bajra is highly nutritious and is a rich source of essential nutrients such as

It is particularly valued for its high content of iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Here is a quick overview of bajra health benefits:

Bajra Health Benefits

Control Diabetes

If you have diabetes, the only way to live a healthy life is to know the ways to control and manage it. Bajra is rich in magnesium and it helps control glucose receptors in our body and reduces insulin resistance.

Keeps The Heart Healthy

Like all other grains, bajra is good for the heart because it has good amounts of omega-3 fats, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and plant lignans. Omega-3 oils help lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and also regulate heart rate and artery health. Magnesium helps lower blood pressure which protects against a heart attack or stroke. Potassium helps lower BP because it is a good vasodilator. Fiber reduces bad cholesterol and thus protects the heart.

Safe For People Intolerant To Gluten

Bajra is an ideal food for gluten intolerant people because it is gluten-free. Gluten intolerance is called celiac disease. Bajra roti is healthier than the majority of other roti varieties.

Weight Control

Consisting of complex carbohydrates, it is slowly absorbed into our digestive tract, leading to increased satiety while ensuring a continuous flow of energy. This helps avoid overeating and binging between meals.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS is a common problem that affects women of all age groups, from teenage girls to those who are in menopause. Bajra is one of those food sources that can be of great help. Loaded with iron and fiber, Pearl Millet reduces visceral fat, the type of fat found around the abdominal region, thus regulating the menstrual cycle and preventing other lifestyle disorders.

Improves Digestion

A healthy intestine is an indicator of general health and Bajra helps to achieve good digestion and prevent constipation.

Natural Detoxifier

Pearl millet is a mixture of amazing components and antioxidants including phenols, tannins, and phytic acid that can prevent strokes, cardiovascular problems, and various types of cancer. Bajra cleanse the liver, kidneys, and detoxify the body from within as well as promoting beautiful skin.

Increases lung Power

Particularly for those who suffer from asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD, Bajra is ideal winter food. The anti-inflammatory properties of pearl millet and the presence of omega-3 oils reduce swelling, clean the mucosa and help you breathe properly.

Fight Heartburn

Bajra falls into the category of alkaline foods, which means that it is an ideal food choice to combat acidity. Bajra mixed with vegetables greatly reduces acidity.

Strengthens Bones

If you are over 30 and already experiencing joint pains, put Bajra on your diet list. This phosphorus-rich millet along with calcium strengthens bones, prevents joint pain, and also prevents the risk of chronic diseases such as osteoporosis.

Improve Eyesight

Bajra, loaded with vitamin A and zinc, prevents night blindness, provides better vision, and reduces other vision-related problems such as macular degeneration or presbyopia.

Overcome Fatigue

Do you suddenly feel tired and wonder what could be wrong? Sudden fatigue is often a symbol of poor metabolism, and the body needs to feed itself in the form of food to get that instant energy. Bajra is rich in vitamin B1 and helps in better absorption of nutrients in the body by converting it to adenosine triphosphate or ATP.

Prevent Hair Loss

Bajra flour is rich in B and folic acid vitamins and can enhance the quality of hair, preventing hair loss.

Strengthens Hair Follicles

Protein strengthens hair follicles, one of the most significant benefits of bajra for hair. According to the magazine 'Dermatology Practical and Conceptual', protein malnutrition can cause hair loss.

What are the side effects of Bajra (Pearl Millet)?

Although bajra or pearl millet is one of the most consumed foods in our country, it has a large number of side effects. If you are eager to add this millet to your daily diet plan, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Pearl millet is not recommended for those with thyroid gland dysfunction, as it can further compromise the functioning of this butterfly-shaped gland and lead to various metabolic disorders.

The oxalates in Bajra, if not cooked properly, can result in kidney stones and the phytic acid can interfere with the absorption of food in the intestine. Therefore, if you have any of these health problems, talk to your doctor or nutritionist before consuming pearl millet.

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