Importance of Ancient Grains
Agriculture is the strength of any country. Consumption of grains gives the ultimate energy for the day. A healthy diet is incomplete without whole grains. Among them, Ancient grains are a precious group of grains that benefited humans for about thousands of years. In the past few decades, Ancient grains that hold the key to a nutritious living have lost their importance among consumers. Herewith, you are going to witness some of the most valuable Ancient grains and their importance to human health.
The most advantageous Ancient grains are
Millets
With an ancient history and incredible nutritional value, Millets is one of the traditional grains that was grown and consumed by people of Asian and African countries for about 5000 years. Packed with vitamins and minerals, these tiny millet grains are also known as the powerhouse of nutrition.
There are 8 different types of millet and they are as follows
- Little Millet (Saamai) is loaded with protein, fibre, iron content and micronutrients help in good digestion.
- Pearl Millet (Bajra) is rich in calcium, protein, iron, and magnesium which aids in reducing the cholesterol level.
- Foxtail Millet (Thinai) is a rich source of minerals consuming which provides good immunity.
- Barnyard Millet is one of the millets with high fibre & iron content that provides your body with good antioxidants upon consumption.
- Finger Millet (Ragi) is the best millet for diabetic and anaemic patients as it is rich in high protein and calcium content.
- Kodo Millet (Varagu) is an ideal choice for people who prefer weight loss as it contains a lot of protein, fibre and phytochemical contents.
- Proso Millet has complex carbohydrates, high minerals and antioxidants that help to prevent serious conditions like osteoporosis
- Sorghum (Jowar) is the commonly consumed millet with high antioxidants
Some of the common millet recipes are porridges, dosa or pancakes and even bread. Since it is highly nutritious and gluten-free, millets are one ancient grain you must taste to stay healthy always.
Kamut
Having related to the wheat category, Kamut ( also known as Camel’s tooth due to its shape) is one of the ancient grains in history with good nutritional value and pleasant taste. While modern wheat products may cause allergies, Kamut or Khorasan wheat can be taken as the best alternative that is packed with proteins and minerals.
Buckwheat
Around 4000 BC, Buckwheat was one of the first grown grains in ancient history that have high amounts of soluble fibre. Looking more like fruit seeds, Buckwheat groats are gluten-free grains that can maintain your blood sugar levels and are highly friendly to your heart. Buckwheat is easy to cook and can be enjoyed in several different ways.
Amaranth
Amaranth is a precious pseudocereal with high protein and calcium content grown at first in the parts of South America during 4000 BC. To mention, in particular, Amaranth is the only grain with Vitamin C and is highly nutritious to be consumed from young to old. You can make any recipe from porridge to sweets with Amaranth
Chia Seeds
One of the most cherished grains of history is Chia seeds which are enormously rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Chia seeds were once the staple in Mexico and other parts of Central America. Chia seeds turn gelatinous when mixed in water and hence used in puddings often. With lots of dietary fibre, Chia seeds are extremely useful in reducing weight.
Some of the other ancient grains include Freekeh, Red rice of Bhutan, Forbidden Rice, Fonio, Farro, and Teff.
Choose Good Health? Prefer Ancient Grains!
Every ancient grain holds great significance when it comes to good health. Many whole grains that nourished people for over 1000 years and beyond possess low levels of gluten and hence considered very beneficial. Gluten-free foods help you boost energy, reduce digestive system problems and aids in good weight loss. Never miss to include these wholesome ingredients to your diet to lead a healthy lifestyle.
