According to a research study published in the Journal of Nutrition, pearl millet that has been bred to have high levels of iron can fulfill the daily iron needs in young children. Pearl millet is a popular staple item in semi-arid regions such as Africa and India. In India, approximately 45 to 50 million people in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana states depend on pearl millet as a key dietary energy source. It is a climate-smart crop, owed to its tolerance to heat, drought, and saline soil. Additionally, it has a high mineral and iron content, gluten-fee, and high dietary fiber. Pearl millet has a high likelihood of increasing and being adopted in non-conventional growing environments.
Health Benefits
Pearl millet is commonly referred to as bajra in Hindi society. The richer sections of this society have frowned upon this crop, which is deemed to be a food preserve for the poor. However, in the last few years, nutritionist and dieticians have been emphasizing the health benefits associated with this new pearl millet. Pearl millet has a high protein and amino acid content. These are a great source of iron that plays a significant role in hemoglobin formation. Hemoglobin contains vitamin B1 and prevents anemia. Severe anemia is caused by iron deficiency and has been known to elevate the risk of maternal deaths. In the research study, Indian children who were iron-deficient and ate traditionally made flat bread and porridge cooked with the new pearl millet, absorbed significantly more iron compared to ordinary millet flour. The iron absorbed was sufficient to meet the children’s physiological needs. Additionally, the iron-containing pearl millet had more zinc, which was also absorbed in enough levels to meet the daily zinc needs of children. It is therefore clear that iron fortified millets may give a partial solution to malnutrition problems.
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