Is foxtail millet richest source of protein? Nutrition experts weigh in

Is foxtail millet richest source of protein? Nutrition experts weigh in

The variety that millet boasts is huge and can be incorporated into your diet routine. But if you are looking especially for a protein meal, it is important to know which type of millet is the richest source of protein to help you plan your meals. As such, nutritionist Juhi Kapoor shared that there is a millet for every need. “There is a millet for everyone. If you are looking for high protein millet to attain muscle gain, tissue maintenance, and even to help weight loss – the richest protein millet is foxtail millet,” said Kapoor.

Citing APEDA’s values per 100g of millet, Kapoor noted that foxtail millet with 12.3 grams of protein trumps all others like Bajra with 10.9 grams, little millet with 10.1 grams, jowar with 9.9 grams, proso millet with 8.3 grams, kodo millet with 8 grams, ragi with 7.1 grams, and barnyard millet with 6.2 grams.

She cautioned that one should always eat millet with dal or legumes. “This will help to provide a more complete and good quality protein profile,” said Kapoor.

We turned toward our in-house nutrition experts to help us make informed choices when it comes to millet and protein needs.

Protein is a component of food that is very important in the repair and maintenance of the body’s tissues. “While choosing a protein for our diet we always choose eggs, meat, beans, dairy, etc, and forget grains as protein-rich,” said dietitian Simrat Bhui.

All grains including millet contain 8-20 per cent of protein with a significant amount of carbohydrates and fatty acids. “According to studies, foxtail millet contains 12.3 per cent of protein which makes this millet highest in containing proteins,” Bhui added.

Why have foxtail millet?

-It’s good for diabetic patients

-It tends to reduce cholesterol

-It’s a cheap source of manganese along with this it’s rich in calcium, iron, and fibre.

-Rich in magnesium and phosphorus it great for children and pregnant women

-It acts like medicine for those who suffer from acidity and a burning sensation in the stomach.

-Rich in fibre so it gets rid of constipation

-Rich in protein makes iron absorption better hence benefits in anemia

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The key to maximising nutritional benefits goes beyond selecting foxtail millet alone. Sushma PS, chief dietician, Jindal Naturcure Institute said that the recommendation is to pair millets, such as foxtail, with dal or legumes. “This combination is emphasised to enhance the protein quality and completeness of your diet. By doing so, you create a well-rounded meal that provides a variety of essential amino acids – the building blocks crucial for muscle function and overall bodily processes,” said Sushma.

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