Pearl Millet / கம்பு

Pearl millet is the most widely grown type of millet. Pearl millet is widely grown in the northeastern part of the world. It is a major source of food to the local villagers of that region. In India, it is widely known as Bajra. 

Cultivation of Pearl Millet

It can grow in the soil where there is high salinity or low pH. Because of its tolerance to difficult growing conditions, it can be grown in areas where other crops cannot grow or if grown cannot survive.

Pearl millet is well adapted to growing areas characterized by drought, low soil fertility, and high temperature. The crop grows easily and able to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Health Benefits

1) Anti-oxidation agents – Pearl millet contains lots of Polyphenols. These polyphenols flush out harmful free radicals from the body and prevent from heart disease to cancer. They also reduce inflammation, up to your immunity, and help fight viruses.

2) It controls cholesterol –  Bajra is also known for controlling cholesterol levels. This is because it contains a lot of fiber, which goes a long way in lowering the bad cholesterol in blood stream. This prevents arteries from getting clogged up and protects heart from cardiovascular disease.

3) Prevents Gallstone – The fiber in millets is also helpful in reducing the risk of gallstones. Foods rich in insoluble fiber can speed up the transit of undigested food through the colon and also reduce the secretion of bile acids which help form gallstones.

Nutritional Value

In a 100 grams of bajra, you will find 

• 378 calories
• Total Fat - 4.2 grams 
• Saturated fat - 0.7 grams
• Polyunsaturated fat - 2.1 grams
• Monounsaturated fat - 0.8 grams
• Sodium - 5 mg 
• Potassium - 195 mg
• Carbohydrates - 73 grams 
• including dietary fiber - 9 grams
• Protein - 11 grams

and offers large amounts of essential minerals as well, also has 16% of iron, 20% of vitamin B-6, and 28% of magnesium.

Include In Diet

Pearl millet is widely known as diet food. In India it is famous in villages, till now it is considered to be the best food to stay strong and fit. It is very easy to add pearl millet in the diet as it is cost effective. Also you can enjoy it’s taste with any dishes. You can replace your wheat grain chapati with bajra roti. It is widely available all over the world.