Additionally, millet is used in livestock feed and birdseed, so be sure millet you purchase is for human consumption as millet sold for animals has its indigestible hull intact. However, while millet is naturally gluten-free, it’s always best to play it safe with grains .
You could be asking “Is millet gluten-free?”
Yes, millet in its natural form is gluten-free . These small-seeded grasses are harvested for grains and are used in a wide variety of ways.
But the absence of gluten is hardly the only reason why millet makes such a great substitute for whole grain wheat. You see, this ancient grain also contains many B vitamins as well as essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, copper, zinc and chromium.
This of course begs the query “Is Millet high in fiber?”
Unlike white rice, cornmeal or rolled oats, millet is minimally processed. Millet contains more fiber than most refined grains, with about 2 g of fiber per one-cup serving, but not as many other whole grains.
You should be wondering “What is millet and what does it taste like?”
It’s widely consumed in developing countries throughout Africa and Asia. While it may look like a seed , millet’s nutritional profile is similar to that of sorghum and other cereals ( 2 ). Millet has gained popularity in the West because it’s gluten-free and boasts high protein, fiber, and antioxidant contents ( 3 ).
Does millet contain protein?
According to the Handbook of Cereal Science and Technology (available from Amazon here ), pearl millet contains on average around 14.5% protein , which makes it the best source of protein among common millet varieties (teff and finger millet, or red millet, were reported to have the lowest levels).
Note, however, that millet is not considered a complete protein as it does not contain substantial amounts of the amino acid lysine. That said, eating millet together with lysine-rich foods such as beans, cheese, tofu or eggs will turn your overall meal into a source of complete protein.
Does millet have anti inflammatory properties?
According to chef and nutrition consultant Rebecca Katz, millet has anti-inflammatory properties. The intestinal lining can become inflamed from conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease or reactions to medications. The inflammation causes abdominal pain and can result in diarrhea.
It contains phenolics that can protect skin from discolouration and premature ageing. Kong millet contain lignans that can offer protection from hormone-based cancers. Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B1 in kong can be helpful in preventing migraines, reducing bloating and inflammation .
The inflammation causes abdominal pain and can result in diarrhea. Although they are not a substitute for medical care, anti-inflammatory foods like millet may contribute to the healing process and help reduce the frequency or severity of symptoms .
Is millet bad for thyroid health?
Don’t take any chances with your thyroid health by consuming large amounts of millet bread or millet based snacks. If gluten and/or wheat is a problem, then simply reduce bread consumption. Alternatively, use another grain that is both gluten-free and non-goitrogenic such as rice, oats or teff.
Does millet have goitrogens?
While millet does not contain gluten, it does contain goitrogens . These are substances that suppress thyroid activity and can lead to goiter . This condition involves enlargement of this very important gland which resides in the throat.
Can Millet cause goiter?
Wherever and whenever millet becomes a staple food worldwide, the incidence of goiter increases and abnormalities of thyroid function and iodine metabolism occur . Unless you are a vegan, a vegetarian or are in search of gluten-free grains, most Americans and westerners have never tasted millet.