12 Benefits of Bajra that Make it a Superfood

If you are looking for a superfood that will provide you with the necessary nutrition in the winter season, you must learn about pearl millet. Affectionately known as ‘bajra’ in India, this grain is nothing less than a treasure trove of health benefits.

In this blog, we will discuss the remarkable bajra benefits due to which this ancient superfood has stood the test of time. Also, learn how you can incorporate it into your diet to make the most of all the nutritional health benefits of pearl millet.

What is Bajra or Pearl Millet?

Pearl Millet or Bajra is a small cereal grain that has been a part of the staple diet for Indians since centuries. This is because this grain has an impressive nutritional profile and a rich history across the globe. The millet gets its name due to its round and pearl-like shape in white and yellow colour.

Furthermore, incorporating bajra atta benefits your diet during the Indian winter season due to its warming properties that help maintain body temperature. Keep reading to learn the wide range of benefits of pearl millet below.

6. Increases Haemoglobin Levels

If you are someone suffering from iron deficiency, bajra is what you need to add to your diet. The millet is a good source of iron and when consumed regularly, it can help increase your haemoglobin levels and prevent anaemia.

7. Improves Bone Health

Since our bone density depletes with age, it is crucial to add foods that can help improve your bone health. And the magnesium and phosphorus content in bajra benefits the overall bone health.

8. Rich in Antioxidants

Bajra or pearl millet is a treasure trove of antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E that protect the body from any oxidative damage. These antioxidants also play a critical role in preventing premature ageing and chronic diseases.

9. Has Anti-inflammatory Properties

Pearl millet benefits people with inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation in the body and easing any discomfort. Some examples of fatal inflammatory diseases include Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease and adding bajra to your diet can reduce the risk of these diseases.

10. Aids in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS is an extremely common health condition among women of different age groups. It is a hormonal disorder that can easily cause havoc in the body and lead to many unwanted symptoms. So, how can bajra help? Well, bajra flour benefits women with PCOS by helping regulate their menstrual cycles and preventing lifestyle disorders.

11. Reduces Risk of Childhood Asthma

 Did you know that childhood asthma is a fairly common condition? And Bajra is not only a good food choice for the little ones but it also helps reduce the risk of childhood asthma. The whole grain has been proven to reduce the risk of asthma by 54% in children.

12. Good Source of Protein for Vegetarians

Lastly, a lesser known fact is that bajra is actually a good source of plant-based protein. In fact, pearl millet flour is even more beneficial when combined with seeds like chana dal, moong dal, rajma and more.

Bajra Benefits for Weight Loss

(Image: Bajra Grains)

Since bajra consists of complex carbohydrates, it is slowly digested and can make you feel satiated for a longer period. Thus, it helps avoid overeating between different meals and provides you with a continuous flow of energy.

Bajra Benefits for Skin

Bajra offers several benefits for your skin and hair due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce the signs of premature ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, bajra benefits for skin include overall hydration which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and promoting a natural glow.

How to Consume Bajra?

To harness the potential bajra health benefits, you must add it to your regular diet. How? Here are a few easy bajra recipes you must try to benefit from this age-old grain.

• Bajra Roti: You can add bajra to your routine by making flatbreads or rotis and having them for lunch. You can gain the bajra roti benefits by cooking it with less oil and ghee and having it with some leafy greens.

• Bajra Khichdi: A healthy and light recipe that you can try to gain the bajra benefits is bajra khichdi which you can make by soaking bajra and moong dal. Bajra khichdi benefits include contributing in weight loss and regulating blood sugar levels.

• Bajra Porridge: You can start your day with a healthy bajra porridge that you can make by using either water or milk.