Millets are great for helping to control body heat during summer due to their cooling properties and nutritional benefits. Here's how they can help:
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Cooling Effect: Millets are considered cooling foods in many traditional diets, particularly in Ayurvedic practices. They help balance the body's internal heat, making them ideal for hot weather.
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High in Fiber: Millets, like pearl millet, finger millet, and sorghum, are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate body temperature. By promoting a healthy digestive system, they prevent the body from generating excess heat during digestion.
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Low Glycemic Index: Millets have a low glycemic index, which means they release energy slowly into the bloodstream. This prevents spikes in blood sugar and helps maintain steady energy levels without generating heat in the body, unlike highly processed grains.
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Rich in Magnesium: Millets are high in magnesium, which helps in muscle relaxation and regulates the nervous system. Magnesium has a calming effect, which can contribute to reducing the feeling of heat and stress.
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High Water Content: Some types of millets, like pearl millet, are high in water content when cooked, which can help keep the body hydrated and maintain a cooler internal temperature during the hot months.
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Antioxidant Properties: Millets contain antioxidants like phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. This can contribute to an overall cooling effect on the body.
Incorporating millets into your meals as a part of salads, porridge, or as a substitute for rice can help keep the body cool and comfortable during summer.
