Why Ragi is a Superfood: 5 Health Benefits to Add Ragi to Your Diet

Ragi, which was formerly thought of as a diet for the poor, is currently gaining appeal because of its acknowledged health advantages. Rich in calcium, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this hardy grain is recognizable by its golden or black hues that resemble mustard seeds.

The cultivation of ragi, a traditional mainstay for villages and lower-income people in previous decades, has decreased recently. But as a result of the Indian government’s push for millets, ragi has grown in popularity and may now command prices as high as hundreds of rupees.

Ragi’s remarkable nutritional profile is the reason for this renewed interest in it. According to the American National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), studies show that it may lower the risk of cancer. Additionally, ragi is good for diabetes, heart disease, and muscle health.

Top 5 Health Benefits of Ragi

Here are a few of ragi’s amazing health benefits.

1. Strengthens Bones: Ragi is a good source of nutrients that are necessary for healthy bones, including as calcium, zinc, and phosphorus. Ragi consumption can lower the incidence of osteoporosis later in life and encourage bone formation, particularly in children.

2. Controls Diabetes: Because of its high dietary fiber content and gluten-free status, ragi is a great option for people with diabetes. Because of this, it is a low-glycemic food that aids in regulating blood sugar levels. Ragi is anti-diabetic and anti-tumorigenic due to its 0.38 percent calcium, 18 percent dietary fiber, and 3 percent phenolic chemicals.

3. Prevents Cancer: According to NCBI research, ragi has anti-cancer qualities, especially in lowering the incidence of stomach cancer. Ragi’s phenolic components function as antioxidants, scavenging free radicals and lowering oxidative stress, both of which can impede the growth of cancer cells.

4. Promotes Heart Health: By binding with stomach fat deposits and subsequently lowering cholesterol levels, the fiber in ragi helps lessen the risk of heart disease. Additionally, research suggests that eating ragi helps lower lipid levels.

5. Prevents Aging: Research has shown that the phenolic chemicals in ragi also have anti-aging properties. By battling oxidative stress and free radicals, these substances support healthy skin and improve physiological processes.