Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), also known as “harka” in Nepal, “arike” in Kannada, and “harka ka chaul” in Hindi, is a type of grain that is native to the Indian subcontinent and has been grown in the region for thousands of years. It is a staple food in parts of India, Nepal, and other countries, and is considered to be a nutritious and healthy grain. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of kodo millet per 100g and discuss whether kodo millet is healthy for you.
One hundred grams of kodo millet contains approximately 359 calories, 7.7 grams of protein, 73.6 grams of carbohydrates, 1.9 grams of fiber, and 1.8 grams of fat. It is a good source of various essential nutrients, including B vitamins (such as thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin), iron, and zinc. Kodo millet is also a good source of antioxidants, which may help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Kodo millet is considered to be a healthy grain for several reasons. First, it is high in fiber, which can help to promote regular bowel movements and may lower the risk of constipation and other digestive problems. High fiber foods can also help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Kodo millet is also a good source of nutrients that are important for maintaining bone health. It is high in calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth, and it also contains small amounts of other nutrients that are important for bone health, such as magnesium and phosphorus.
Another reason why kodo millet is considered to be a healthy grain is that it is low in fat and has a low glycemic index (GI). Foods with a low GI are absorbed more slowly by the body, which helps to maintain steady blood sugar levels and may reduce the risk of developing conditions such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, kodo millet is also thought to have other health benefits. Some studies have suggested that it may help to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of cancer, and improve immune function. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Despite its many potential health benefits, kodo millet is not a perfect food. It is relatively low in protein compared to other grains, and it does not contain all of the essential amino acids that the body needs. Therefore, it is important to combine kodo millet with other protein-rich foods, such as legumes or nuts, to ensure that you are getting all of the nutrients that your body needs.
In conclusion, kodo millet is a nutritious and healthy grain that is high in fiber, B vitamins, iron, and zinc, and low in fat and has a low glycemic index. It may also have other health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and improving immune function. However, it is relatively low in protein and does not contain all of the essential amino acids, so it should be combined with other protein-rich foods to ensure that you are getting all of the nutrients that your body needs.