Ragi - Eleusine coracana - Finger Millet

1. High Protein:

Eleusinian is the major protein content that is found in ragi and has a lot of biological value. This protein helps prevent malnutrition and is considered to be a healthy source of protein for vegetarians. Methionine content constitutes 5 per cent of the total protein found in ragi. Ragi has been grown for hundreds of years and it can grow in high altitudes and withstand harsh weather conditions. Ragi has a lot of carbohydrates and is placed at the peak of food grains by most dietitians. Ragi cannot be polished like other grains because it is too tiny and this makes it possible for us to consume it in its purest form.

2. Natural Weight Loss Agent:

Ragi has high amounts of fibre in it that keeps your stomach full and stops you from unwanted cravings. This helps in weight loss. It reduces the level of blood sugar in your body and turns it into insulin. Ragi is best suited when you consume it in the morning. Ragi contains a type of amino acid called Tryptophan that helps you lose weight. Tryptophan reduces your appetite and thus you don’t feel hungry often.

3. Prevents your Skin from Ageing:

Ragi is a natural skincare agent and an anti-ageing cereal. Important amino acids like Methionine and Lysine are present in ragi that protects your skin from risks of rashes, wrinkles and skin dullness. The antioxidants found in ragi fight stress in your body that help reverse the signs of ageing. It rejuvenates the skin cells, thus making you look fresh and healthy. Ragi also has Vitamin E, which is very useful for your skin. Vitamin E acts as a natural assistant for body wounds. This help lubricates the skin, forming a protective layer that enables your skin to grow.

4. Ragi is Good for your Hair:

Ragi is rich in proteins and helps prevent hair loss. It is highly recommended for people suffering from hair loss. Your hair requires a lot of protein because hair itself is made of protein. Keratin is the main protein found in your hair. Lack of protein can lead to loss of hair and if you begin consuming ragi, it will strengthen your hair and reduce hair fall.

Ragi is also said to prevent premature greying of hair. This is usually caused due to the oxidation of tissues, and the antioxidants present in ragi will effectively prevent the damage to tissues, thereby, reducing the possibility of having grey hair. Magnesium content can be found in ragi that is responsible for controlling hair loss. Ragi also increases blood circulation in your body that helps in hair growth.

5. Ragi has loads of Calcium:

There is no cereal that comes close to the amount of calcium available in ragi. Calcium is needed for human bones to develop and prevents osteoporosis, meaning bones become weak and fragile. So instead of popping calcium pills, it is recommended that you drink ragi porridge (ragi kanji). 100 grams of ragi consists of 344 milligrams of calcium which is high and very good for your bones.

6. Increases Production of Mothers Milk:

Lactating women must consume more green ragi as it increases haemoglobin levels thus increasing the production of mothers milk among women. This also called increased levels of lactation. A lactating mother must add green ragi to her daily diet and it will increase amino acids and breast milk, calcium and iron which is very important for the mother and the child.

7.Prevents Diabetes:

Regular consumption of ragi can help reduce your risk of diabetes. This is because polyphenols and dietary fibres are prevalent in ragi. Ragi has huge amounts of fibre when compared to other whole wheat grains. Consuming ragi on a regular basis lowers the level of blood sugar and stabilises your sugar level. Ragi acts as an absorbent such that it absorbs starch and lowers the digestibility of your body. This is why most people who consume ragi don’t feel hungry very often.

8.Good Digestion:

The dietary fibre present in ragi helps your intestines digest food smoothly. Ragi improves the movement of food in your body, such that, it smoothens the flow of food through your intestines and retains the water in your body for the purpose of waste excretion. Thus ragi is a highly nutritional cereal and helps you maintain good health. However, you can relish different ragi dishes and ensure you have a healthy life. Ranging from dosas to ragi balls, this healthy cereal will keep you fit and healthy all day all long.

9. Ragi Keeps you Relaxed:

One amazing benefit of eating ragi is that it acts as a natural relaxant for your body. Consuming ragi helps you deal with anxiety, insomnia and depression. It stabilizes all of these anxiety disorders and keeps you relaxed the whole day. It does cool your thinking and keeps you calm. Literally, ragi acts as a coolant for your body on a hot summer day.

10. Prevents Colon Cancer:

Ragi is known to help prevent cancer because it contains fibre and phytonutrients that prevent the risk of colon cancer. Lignan, a type of nutrient found in ragi is converted into mammalian lignan by your intestine and this protects women from the risk of having breast cancer. Consuming ragi daily can reduce our risks of developing cancer.