About Finger Millet (Ragi)
Finger millet, also known as ragi, is a resilient, nutrient-rich cereal crop, particularly important in India and Asia, known for its drought tolerance and high nutritional value, especially in calcium and iron.
- Finger millet is a good source of protein, dietary fiber, calcium, iron, and zinc.
- It's highly adaptable to arid and semi-arid regions, making it a vital food security crop in areas with limited rainfall.
- It's a gluten-free cereal, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Finger millet grains are naturally resistant to pests and molds, allowing for long-term storage.
- Micronutrients: Rich in micronutrients like iron and calcium.
- Amino Acids: Contains amino acids that are missing from maize, making it a valuable addition to diets where maize is a staple.
- Fiber: Higher in dietary fiber than white rice.
- Minerals: Contains minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
- Vitamins: Contains vitamins A and B complex.
- Calcium: Finger millet has the highest amount of calcium among cereals and millets.
- Iron: Finger millet is a good source of iron, which is important for preventing anemia.
- Food: Used for producing beer, porridge, soups, bread, cakes, and pudding.
- Traditional Foods: Used in the preparation of traditional foods like roti (unleavened breads or pancake), mudde (dumpling), and ambali (thin porridge).
- Animal Feed: The straw can be used as animal feed.
- Health Benefits: In vitro and in vivo studies have indicated potential health benefits, including blood glucose lowering, cholesterol lowering, antiulcerative, and wound healing properties.
- Digestive Health: Ragi's dietary fiber is beneficial for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
- Bone Health: Ragi is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone growth and development.
Nutritional Facts (per 100g)
Calories | 320 kcal |
Total Fat | 2g |
Saturated Fat | 0g |
Trans Fat | 0g |
Total Carbohydrates | 67g |
Dietary Fiber | 11g |
Total Sugars | 0g |
Protein | 7g |
Calcium | 360mg |
Iron | 4.6mg |
Other Nutrients | Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Zinc |