Best millets for the winter season
Seasonal foods are called seasonal for a reason, and no, the reason isn’t as simple as it might seem. Fruits and vegetables available during a particular season are not called ‘seasonal’ only because of their availability, but also because of the way in which they help the body. Fruits and vegetables that are available during the summers are rich in water content, minerals and vitamins that help the body cope up with the dehydration that happens as a result of excessive heat and tiredness. Foods available during monsoon help the body cope up with the increase in humidity and sweating.
Choosing the right foods for winters
Similarly, winters are a trying time during which the body needs insulation and better blood circulation. Due to lack of activity and better insulation needs, people consume more food as a result of which heat is released in the body but this also leads to weight gain, to battle which the body needs foods that help lose weight. Adding millets and grains like maize, jowar and bajra are gluten free and help the body by providing various health benefits and aiding weight loss. Here are three millets that are fit for consumption during winters.
Bajra
Bajra or pearl millet is rich in protein that helps the body build muscle mass. Lean muscle mass aids weight loss and is a marker of a healthy body. Fiber present in bajra is soluble in water and forms a gel-like substance that settles in the stomach and helps one feel fuller for longer. The fiber also helps digestive processes and metabolism because of which weight loss becomes convenient. Bajra also helps regulate blood glucose levels and cholesterol. With its numerous health benefits and heating affinities, bajra is a suitable option to embrace during the winter.
Ragi
Ragi is rich in protein and calcium. It is a very suitable alternative for vegetarians who refuse to switch to non-vegetarian food just for the sake of maintaining calcium levels in the body. The amount of vitamins and minerals present in ragi is also sufficient for an individual’s overall health and helps prevent anemia. Good skin health and hair health are also promoted by consumption of ragi and makes it a healthy option for consumption during the winter.
Jowar
Jowar is also known as Sorghum and it is a storehouse of nutrients that include Vitamin B, calcium, iron, phosphorus and fiber that ensure overall health. Antioxidants present in jowar help the body resist diseases like cancer. It is gluten free and helps control blood glucose levels, boosts immunity and improves heart health. Including jowar to your daily winter diet will help you survive better in the season.