A banner image of a bountiful harvest of grains, including jowar, wheat, and barley, symbolizing the rich nutritional benefits of these grains.

What are the Health Benefits of Jowar?

Written by

Team Diabesmart

Medically Reviewed
Vibhuti Jain

Nutrition Consultant | R&D Head

 

Jowar, also known as sorghum, is a versatile and nutritious grain that has been a staple in various cultures for centuries. This gluten-free grain has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits and culinary versatility, making it a valuable addition to diverse diets.

One of the key benefits of jowar is its rich nutritional profile. It is packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for maintaining good health. Additionally, jowar is known for its role in promoting better digestion, aiding in weight management, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Nutritional Component of Jowar

The nutritional value present in 100grams of Jowar:

Nutrient

Amount

Calories

329

Total Fat

3.5g

Saturated Fat

0.6g

Total Carbohydrate

72g

Dietary Fiber

6.7g

Sugar

2.5g

Protein

11g

Calcium

13.00mg

Iron

3.36mg

Potassium

363mg

Sodium

2mg

Thiamine

0.35mg

Riboflavin

0.14mg

Niacin

2.1mg

Folate

39.42mg

Health Benefits of Jowar

  1. Gluten-Free: Jowar is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

  2. Rich in Nutrients: It is a good source of essential nutrients including protein, fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), and minerals (such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium).

  3. Heart Health: Jowar contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation.

  4. Digestive Health: The fiber content in jowar promotes digestive health by supporting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It also aids in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

  5. Blood Sugar Control: Jowar has a lower glycemic index compared to other grains, which means it causes a slower increase in blood sugar levels after consumption. This can be beneficial for managing blood sugar levels, especially for individuals with diabetes.

  6. Weight Management: The fiber and protein content in jowar can help promote satiety, leading to reduced calorie intake and supporting weight management goals.

  7. Bone Health: Jowar is a good source of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important for maintaining bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.

  8. Energy Boost: Jowar provides a steady release of energy due to its complex carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for sustained energy throughout the day.

  9. Lowers Cholesterol: Jowar, being a whole grain, is rich in dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber. Soluble fiber binds with cholesterol in the digestive tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. Instead, it carries the cholesterol out of the body through the digestive system, promoting its excretion. By reducing cholesterol absorption, soluble fiber in jowar helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular health.

  10. Lowers Blood pressure: It is a good source of potassium, a mineral known for its role in regulating blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Potassium helps relax blood vessel walls, which reduces blood pressure levels. Jowar is rich in dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which can aid in lowering blood pressure by promoting heart health and improving blood vessel function.

 

Incorporating Jowar into Your Diet

  1. Jowar Roti: Swap your regular wheat rotis with jowar rotis for a healthier alternative. Jowar rotis are gluten-free and rich in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to improve their digestion.

  2. Jowar Upma: Prepare a delicious and nutritious upma using jowar instead of semolina. This dish is not only easy to make but also provides a good dose of vitamins and minerals required for overall well-being.

  3. Jowar Salad: Add cooked jowar to your salads for an extra crunch and energy boost. Jowar, packed with essential nutrients, can elevate the nutritional value of your salad and keep you full for longer.

  4. Jowar Porridge: Start your day on a healthy note by indulging in a warm bowl of jowar porridge. It is a wholesome breakfast option that can help in managing weight and keeping you energized throughout the day.

  5. Jowar Khichdi: Cook jowar and split green gram (moong dal) together until soft. In a separate pan, heat ghee and temper with cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies, followed by cooked jowar and dal mixture. Season with salt, turmeric powder, and garam masala, and cook until well combined. Serve hot with yogurt or pickle.

 

 

 

Incorporating jowar into your diet is a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall health and well-being. By exploring these tips and recipes, you can enjoy the benefits of jowar while relishing delicious meals.

Whole Grain Powerhouse of Health

The numerous health benefits of jowar make it a valuable addition to your diet. From improving digestion to aiding in weight management and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, jowar offers a wide range of advantages.

Jowar benefits go beyond just nutrition; its high fiber content can promote digestive health, keeping your gut happy and maintaining regularity. Additionally, the presence of essential vitamins and minerals contributes to overall well-being and boosts immunity.

Only Low Glycemic Index isn’t usually enough to be Diabetic Friendly. Sugar Care Atta is the only Flour in India that has been Clinically tested on Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics to show 55% Lower Sugar Spikes compared to regular Flours. This makes it effective for blood sugar management. The taste and texture is also similar to regular Rotis and Chapatis made at home.

References

This Blog post is an initiative by DiabeSmart, to provide accurate and Nutritionist / Doctor approved information related to Diabetes. DiabeSmart is India's first Food brand designed specifically for Diabetics, that has been clinically tested on Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics to deliver 55% - 70% lower Sugar spikes. DiabeSmart is part of Lo! Foods - India's leading brand for Everyday Functional Health foods.

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Disclaimer

The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Bajo Foods does not claim responsibility for this information.

The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in ... Read More

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