PRODUCT DETAILS

Botanical and Regional Information: Scientific Name: Setaria italica Other Names: It's known by various names in different Indian languages, including: Hindi: Kangni, Kakun   Telugu: Korra Tamil: Thinai   Kannada: Navane   Marathi: Rala Bengali: Kaon Origin and History: Foxtail millet is believed to be one of the oldest cultivated grains, with evidence of its domestication dating back thousands of years in Asia, particularly in China and India.   Global Cultivation: While its roots are in Asia, it's now grown in various parts of the world, including Europe, Russia, Africa, Australia, and the United States. Nutritional Profile in Detail (Unpolished vs. Polished): Bran Layer Advantage: The "unpolished" aspect is crucial. Polishing removes the outer bran and germ layers, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Unpolished foxtail millet retains these vital nutrients.   Fiber: Significantly higher in dietary fiber compared to polished rice and even wheat. This aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes satiety. Some sources claim it has up to 40 times more fiber than rice. Protein: A good source of plant-based protein, important for muscle building and overall health. Some sources note it has the highest protein content among positive millets.   Vitamins: Contains B vitamins like niacin, thiamin, and riboflavin, which are essential for energy metabolism and nerve function.   Minerals: Rich in essential minerals such as: Iron: Important for preventing anemia and carrying oxygen in the blood.   Magnesium: Involved in numerous bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. It can have up to 6 times more magnesium than white rice.   Phosphorus: Essential for bone health and energy production.   Calcium: Important for strong bones and teeth.   Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure.   Zinc: Crucial for immune function and wound healing. Antioxidants: Contains phenolic compounds and other antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and chronic diseases.   Carbohydrates: Primarily composed of complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and provide sustained energy. It has a low glycemic index, making it beneficial for blood sugar management.   Fat Content: Low in fat, and the fat it contains is primarily unsaturated, which is beneficial for heart health.   Health Benefits Beyond Basic Nutrition: Blood Sugar Management: Its low glycemic index and high fiber content make it a good choice for individuals with diabetes or those looking to prevent blood sugar spikes.   Heart Health: May help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increase good cholesterol (HDL) due to its fiber and other bioactive compounds.   Digestive Health: The high fiber content prevents constipation, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Weight Management: The fiber promotes satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer and potentially reducing overall calorie intake. Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease: Being naturally gluten-free, it's a safe and nutritious grain alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.   Potential Benefits for Specific Conditions (Further Research Needed): Some traditional uses and preliminary research suggest potential benefits for nerve health, joint health, lung health, and even recovery from conditions like COVID-19, but more scientific investigation is required. Culinary Uses and Preparation Tips: Versatility: As mentioned before, it can be used in a wide array of dishes, both sweet and savory. Cooking Ratio: Generally, a 1:2 ratio of millet to water is recommended for cooking. Soaking: Soaking the millet for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.   Rinsing: Always rinse the millet thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove any impurities. Storage: Store unpolished foxtail millet in a cool, dry, airtight container to prevent infestation and maintain its quality. Some sources recommend storing it in stainless steel, glass, or wooden containers and avoiding plastic for long-term storage. It's generally advised to buy in smaller quantities due to its shorter shelf life compared to polished grains.   Sustainability: Foxtail millet is often considered a sustainable crop as it is drought-tolerant and can grow in less fertile soils, requiring less water compared to water-intensive crops like rice.   By choosing unpolished foxtail millet, you are opting for a more nutritious and potentially more health-beneficial grain compared to its polished counterpart. Its versatility in the kitchen also makes it an easy addition to a balanced diet. Sources and related content