Millets are common gluten-free crops which have been widely used in India for a long time. They can play an important role in preventing as well as curing a number of health issues. Also, millets have amazing nutrient-rich compositions. Enriched with goodness of nature, the millets are a great source of fiber and minerals, such as phosphorous, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and potassium.
Moreover, it is always advised to prepare the millets in the form of the porridge for the growing kids and older people. What is more, millets are also loaded with very high amount of starch as well as proteins, which could be very beneficial if included in the daily diet.
Millets aren’t only very healthy but also they have unique flavor, which can satisfy the taste quotient of your meal. With different culinary innovations, the millets such as ragi, bajra, and jowar are also used to prepare several dishes like Millet Khichidi, Ragi Idli, Apple Ragi Halwa which is healthy for the toddlers, and ragi cookies.
Types of millets and their benefits
1. Jowar (Sorghum)
 The sorghum is generally known as Jowar in different parts India. Jowar is used as grain to make breads and rotis. This is enriched with goodness of iron, fibre, and protein and it can also help in reducing the cholesterol levels because it has the component, policosanols, which is a part of the sorghum wax. It’s very good for those who have wheat intolerance.
2. Ragi (Finger Millet)
Also, ragi is used as a nutritious and healthy substitute for wheat and rice. It is undoubtedly the powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with proteins and amino acids, this wonderful gluten-free millet has proven benefits for the brain development in the growing kids.
3. Kangni/Kakum (Foxtail Millet)
The foxtail millet is loaded with healthy blood sugar level balancing carbohydrates, and is commonly available as semolina or rice flour. The presence of calcium and calcium in these millets also helps in strengthening the immunity systems.
4. Bajra (Pearl millet)
Also known for its important health benefits, bajra is loaded with goodness of iron, fibers, proteins, and minerals like magnesium and calcium. Daily consumption or the inclusion of the millet may work wonders.
5. Sanwa (Barnyard millet)
This nutrient-rich millet is loaded with high fiber contents that can help in losing some weight. It is a very rich source of phosphorous and calcium, which aids bone building and also the daily consumption, helps in infighting bone diseases.
6. Chena (Broomcorn millet/ Proso)
This amazing millet could effectively help in the balancing of the blood sugar levels. The low glycemic index of this millet made it popular among people wanting to lose weight. In India, this millet has been used to feed birds.
7. Moraiyo/ Kutki (Little millet)
Loaded with goodness of vitamin B and minerals such as calcium, zinc, iron, and potassium, these millets can provide all the essential nutrients, which can further help in some weight loss. It is a vital part of several traditional foods in south India. More than anything is its high fiber amount which makes it healthy replacement for the rice.
8. Rajgira/Ramdana (Amaranth)
Amaranth has high protein content. This millet helps in hair loss and hair graying. It also lowers the cholesterol levels and risks of the cardiovascular disease. It is very high in calcium. Also, amaranth is full of antioxidant and minerals.
9. Kuttu (Buckwheat)
The whole-grain buckwheat could be helpful in the weight loss. It helps in diabetes and lowers the blood pressure and promotes the good cardiovascular health. Buckwheat provides protection from breast cancer. This millet also offers protection from childhood asthma. Moreover, kuttu and buckwheat prevents gallstones
10. Kodon (Kodu millet)
 Kodo millet is easy to digest and it has a high amount of lecithins, and is an excellent food for strengthening nervous system.
The millets are very rich in vitamin B, such as niacin, folic acid, and B6, as well as many minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium and zinc. Also, kodo millets have no gluten and are also good for those who are often gluten intolerant. Regular intake of kodo millets is beneficial for the  postmenopausal women showing the signs of the cardiovascular diseases, like high blood pressure as well as high cholesterol level.