Millets have been grown and consumed for thousands of years in different parts of the world. In India, millets have been an important part of the diet for centuries, but their consumption has declined over the years due to the increasing popularity of other grains like rice and wheat.
Millets are a great source of protein, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber, and they offer several health benefits. Millets are high in antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases like cancer. They are also rich in fiber, which helps to improve digestion, prevent constipation, and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, millets are gluten-free, which makes them an ideal food for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
The decision to introduce millet into the diet of patients at AIIMS Bhopal is a result of the institute's commitment to providing healthy and nutritious food to patients. The move is part of a larger trend toward promoting healthy eating habits in healthcare settings. Good nutrition is important for patient recovery, and hospitals have a responsibility to provide food that is not only nourishing but also appealing and appetizing.
AIIMS Bhopal has collaborated with local farmers to procure the millets and has developed recipes using millets to ensure that the meals are not only healthy but also tasty. The dietary department of AIIMS Bhopal has put in a lot of effort to ensure that the millet-based meals are nutritionally balanced, taking into consideration the specific dietary needs of each patient.
The introduction of millets in the diet of patients at AIIMS Bhopal is a significant step towards raising awareness about the health benefits of millets. The initiative is expected to inspire people to include millet in their daily diet and promote the consumption of traditional foods that are both healthy and delicious.
The government's proposal for the International Year of Millets (IYM) 2023, which was accepted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), further highlights the importance of millets in promoting good health.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the nutritional and ecological benefits of millets and promote their cultivation and consumption. It is expected that the initiative will help to revive the demand for millets and promote the cultivation of these crops, especially in regions where they have been neglected or forgotten.
