The present young generation who are attracted towards Pizza, Burger, Pasta, etc are averse to eating Jowar roti need to read this article and understand the importance of Jowar in our daily food.
Jowar, Jola, is also known as Sorghum in English is a nutrient rich grain. Jowar is the 5th highly produced cereal crop in the world. In low rain-fed areas, it is a preferred crop, as it can withstand extreme temperatures, need little rain and does not require much of fertilizers or pesticides.
Jowar belongs to the millet family. It is rich storehouse of Protein, Fat, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Vitamins, Iron, zinc, Magnesium, Phosphorous and Potassium. Due to plethora of medical benefits, Jowar is being widely recommended by medical professionals.
The high dietary fiber of sorghum is not only important for digestive, hormonal, and cardiovascular health, but also reduces the glycaemic index of sorghum. Since it has a low glycaemic index, which is 62 compared to that of whole wheat (72), it takes a longer time for the release of glucose in the blood.
While preparing Chapati, Paratha, Naan, needs oil or ghee to be laced on them. However, the Jowar roti is baked without using any oil products.
Jowar vs Wheat
| Jowar (100 g) | Wheat (100 g) | |
| Calories | 349 Cal | 346 Cal |
| Protein | 10.4 g | 11.8 g |
| Carbs | 72.6 g | 71.2 g |
| Fats | 1.9 g | 1.5 g |
| Fiber | 9.7 g | 12.5 g |
Good for Heart Health
The fibre rich jowar lowers LDL (evil cholesterol) improves the HDL levels in the body.
hence, reducing the risk of a heart attack.
Gluten-free
Gluten is a component present in wheat and barley. It causes digestive problems such as bloating, pain, and gastrointestinal problems. Jowar, a gluten-free whole grain, is considered an excellent alternative for people who suffer from ‘gluten intolerance’.
Rich in Fiber
Compared to other cereal grains like barley or rice, jowar contains a much higher concentration of fibre. A single serving contains over 12 grams, which is almost half the recommended daily intake for fibre. A high-fiber diet brings down the risk of obesity, Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Heart disease and digestive problems.
Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Jowar is a complex carbohydrate it takes more time to digest. The slow digestive character of Jowar is very good for maintaining sugar levels.
High Protein
100 grams of Jowar provides 11 grams of protein, which supplies the body with energy and aids in cell regeneration.
Full of Iron & Useful to maintain Bones strong
Jowar contains 8.45 mg of iron in every cup & contains high magnesium levels which makes it good for anemic and weak bone individuals.
by Dr. Pramod N Sulikeri, Ph.D
