Millet is a small, round whole ancient grain, from the Poaceae family. Well, technically millet is a seed, but it has the nutrient profile of a grain. Millet is probably the most known of the 4 lectin-free and gluten-free grains and is gaining more popularity in the West.
Millet found as a main component in bird seed, is not just for the birds. Millet does have a high glycemic index [boiled millet GI = 71], however the other ingredients in the muesli will offset this value. Millet is a good source of manganese, magnesium and tryptophan.
While researching we ran into the query “Is millet lectin-free?”.
This is what our research found. and it’s lectin-free ! Millet’s been getting a lot of attention lately because those with celiac disease have been gravitating toward it when looking for gluten-free options. There are pretty good levels of protein and dietary fiber in millet, which of course only adds to it’s appeal as a food with significant health benefits.
Thus, lectins contained in grains make it possible for a wide variety of harmful substances and pathogens to trigger a multitude of diseases. Besides diseases, foods high in lectins can trigger weight gain.
What are lectins and what do they do?
Ok so lectins. Literally never heard of them until about two weeks ago. Lectins are sugar-binding proteins that are found throughout the diet. They are mostly found in grains and legumes, but are also in other healthy foods. More info on lectins here!
They are mostly found in grains and legumes, but are also in other healthy foods. More info on lectins here! According to my nutritionist, there’s no way to cut out ALL lectins in your diet, and that’s ok because a lot of people tolerate them just fine!
What are the health benefits of millet?
Magnesium has been shown to be of help in asthma, hypertension [high blood pressure] and migraines. This grain is also a good source of phosphorus important in the production of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate [ATP]. Phosphorus is also found in nucleic acids [DNA/RNA] and in phospholipids found in cell membranes.