MILLETS IN TRADITIONAL DIETS AND THEIR RELEVANCE IN PRESENT-DAY NUTRITION

Abstract

Background: Millets have been an integral part of traditional food systems across Asia and Africa for centuries. In the Indian context, millets were widely used as daily staples due to their easy digestibility, climate resilience, and nutritional richness. Classical Ayurveda describes millets under Ahara Dravya, emphasizing their role in maintaining health, strength, and metabolic balance. However, with the dominance of refined cereals like rice and wheat, the dietary use of millets declined, contributing indirectly to lifestyle disorders. Aim To evaluate the nutritional importance of millets in traditional diets and their relevance in present-day nutrition. Objectives To study the role of millets in traditional dietary practices. To understand the nutritional composition of millets. To assess the relevance of millets in modern lifestyle-related disorders. To correlate traditional Ayurveda concepts with modern nutritional science. To highlight the potential of millets in promoting sustainable and healthy diets. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurveda texts, traditional dietary literature, and modern scientific studies available in journals, reports, and nutrition databases. Nutritional composition, health benefits, and clinical relevance of commonly used millets were analyzed and correlated with contemporary nutritional needs. Results: Millets were found to be rich sources of dietary fiber, complex carbohydrates, plant-based proteins, essential minerals, and antioxidants. Traditional dietary practices utilized millets for maintaining digestive health, glycemic control, and seasonal balance. Modern research supports their role in the prevention and management of obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and micronutrient deficiencies. Millets also show a low glycemic index and high satiety value, making them suitable for current lifestyle-related health challenges. Conclusion: Millets represent a nutritionally superior and culturally rooted food group with strong relevance in present-day nutrition. Reintroducing millets into daily diets can support metabolic health, food security, and sustainable nutrition. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern dietary guidelines can help revive millet-based diets for long-term public health benefits.