Remember when we were kids and our grandparents would tell us stories about the good old days, when simple, wholesome food was the norm? They’d talk about bajra roti, ragi porridge, and how these grains kept them strong and healthy. Well, it seems like those “good old days” are making a comeback, and millets are leading the charge!
Everyone’s talking about the benefits of millets. And why not? They’re packed with nutrients, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly versatile. Plus, they’re a boon for our planet, requiring less water and fewer resources to grow compared to other grains.
But how do we actually incorporate these wonder grains into our daily lives? Let’s face it, we’re all busy, and planning meals can be a chore. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a simple guide to designing a balanced meal plan with millets:
- Start Your Day the Millet Way:
- Swap your regular breakfast cereal for a warm bowl of millet porridge. Experiment with different varieties like ragi (finger millet), which is a powerhouse of calcium, or foxtail millet, known for its easy digestibility.
- Ditch the regular dosa batter and try a millet-based version. You can easily find ready-made mixes in stores or try your hand at making your own.
- Craving something savoury? Millet upma or pongal are delicious and filling options.
- Lunchtime Millet Delights:
- Substitute your regular flour with millet flour like bajra (pearl millet) or jowar (sorghum) for a fibre-rich and flavorful alternative.
- Add some excitement to your lunchbox with a millet salad. Think quinoa (yes, it’s a millet too!) and roasted vegetables, or a refreshing foxtail millet and sprout salad.
- Looking for a lighter option? Millet khichdi is a light yet wholesome choice.
- Dinner with a Millet Twist:
- Give your regular rice a break and opt for millet rice instead. Kodo millet and little millet are great options that cook up fluffy and pair well with curries and dals.
- Experiment with millet-based flatbreads like thalipeeth or akki roti. These are not only delicious but also add a unique texture to your meal.
- Don’t forget about soups! A warm bowl of millet and vegetable soup is a comforting and nutritious way to end your day.
Making Millets a Part of Your Life
The key to successfully incorporating millets into your diet is to start slow and experiment. Don’t be afraid to try different varieties and recipes until you find what you enjoy the most. Remember, healthy eating shouldn’t feel like a chore, it should be enjoyable!
Take Charge of Your Health with Right Shift
As we enter our 40s and 50s, prioritising our health becomes more important than ever. That’s where Right Shift comes in. They can guide you on your journey through midlife. To understand your health they offer a fantastic free health score page where you can take a quality of life assessment test and get personalised insights. Plus, they provide meal plans tailored to your specific goals, whether you’re looking to improve your strength, flexibility, gut health, or manage your weight.
So, why wait? Take that first step towards a healthier and happier you with Right Shift and the goodness of millets!