Millet

Millet Millet, a class of small seeded grasses, is widely grown around the world as a human cereal crops as well as animal feed. The crop is a favorite among semi-arid tropical countries for its ease of growth and the short season needed to reach maturity. The most widely consumed type of millet is by far Pearl Millet, typically grown in Africa and India. In the United States, the most common type of millet is the Proso variety, which is mostly grown as bird feed.
The first millet grains were thought to be grown in western Africa, where the greatest variety of both wild and cultivated grains can be found. With this said, millet has been a staple crop of east Asia for at least 10,000 years.

Key Nutrients

Millet provide a healthy source of fiber and B vitamins. Millet is also low in saturated and unsaturated fat content.

Health Benefits

Vitamin B1 – Thiamine is an important vitamin since it breaks down sugars in the body. Thiamine also helps to support nerve and heart health.

Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps to keep your immune system in good working order. It aids in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and amino acids while helping to maintain the health of lymph nodes. Additionally, vitamin B6 helps to regulate blood glucose levels.

Vitamin B9 – Folate is an important vitamin for liver function.

Vitamin B12 – Vitamin B12, or folic acid, helps to preserve neurological function and DNA synthesis. It also plays a key role in the health of red blood cells. The nervous system relies on vitamin B12 for proper function as well.

Dietary Fiber – Dietary Fiber stimulates digestion and peristalsis, helping to relieve indigestion and constipation problems.

Season

Since they store indefinitely, you can find millet year round in your supermarket.

Nutrition Information

Per ¼ cup (50 grams):

Calories (cKal): 189
Protein (grams): 5.51
Total Fat (grams): 2.11
Carbohydrates (grams): 36.42
Fiber (grams): 4.2

Buying and Storing

There are no real issues to consider when buying millet besides making sure you are comfortable with the source and brand. They store for a very long time, just make sure to keep in a sealed container, and store for up to one year.