M-powering

For most of us who carry this fixed image of tattooed biceps in mind, it must surely come as a surprise to know that humans have been using their skins as canvases for thousands of years.

- KRISHNA P S

SUPERFOOD. That's an apt word to describe the versatile and resilient millet. These unassuming little grains, grown in plants resembling grass and weed, are now poised to solve a myriad of global crises, including food insecurity.

Millets are probably the first grains cultivated by humans. According to archaeologists, in many Asian regions, millets were the prominent crop compared to rice, especially in China and Korea. These tiny grains reached Europe from China aeons ago, around 5000 BCE. In Greece, millets were cultivated as early as 3000 BCE. In India, millets such as foxtail millets, barnyard millets, and black finger millets were mentioned in texts dating back to 1200 BCE. These traditional food crops of the country, which appeared long before rice and wheat and have sustained the human race for millennia, have made a comeback with the 'super-food' tag. Especially after the UN, on India's request, declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

Beyond their resilience, it's the nutritional benefits that make these ancient grains stand out. Whole grains like ragi and other natural millets are filled with antioxidants, fibre, and minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus. Millets are gluten-free as well. "The presence of high fibre content means millets are good for digestion and beneficial for those affected by diabetes," notes Rajiv Ambat, founder of NuvoVivo Center for Obesity, Lifestyle Disorders & Research.

"Thanks to the lack of gluten content, they are a better option for people with autoimmune diseases. Also, millets are good for bone health.” It's the combination of nutritional and survival qualities that will make millets important in the coming years, Rajiv adds.

Culinary curiosity has also risen to the challenge. Once known as the poor man's grain and sometimes used only by those with diabetes, millets have now become part of the daily diet of millennials.