Foxtail millet (Kangni) protein is good for heart, says research, and the right way to consume it

Foxtail Millet also known as Kangni, is an annual grass and the second-most widely planted species of millets in Asia. According to the Indian Institue of Millets Research, it is grown mainly in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and in some parts of the northeast states of India too. In Tamil text, it is commonly associated with Lord Muruga and his consort Valli. As per experts, the oldest cultivation of foxtail millet was found along the ancient course of the Yellow River in Cishan, China. While the millet is full of nutrients and considered good for digestion, a recent study has found that the protein found in the bran of cereal crop is heart-healthy too. Let us tell you more about it. (Image: istock)

As per research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, it has been found that a protein in the bran of foxtail millet can help control heart-related issues. (Image: istock)

As per experts, Atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries because of plaque buildup, is the main cause of heart disease and stroke. It has been proven that plaques form when immune cells called monocytes take up oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (ox-LDL) in the artery wall. As per the researchers, a protein in foxtail millet bran called foxtail millet bran peroxidase (FMBP) can slow down the migration of colon cancer cells. To study the same and find out the result, researchers treated human aortic smooth muscle cells and monocytes with FMBP. The millet protein reduced the uptake of lipids by both cell types and reduced the migration of smooth muscle cells. In monocytes, FMBP treatment blocked the expression of two key proteins involved in atherosclerosis. And this study helped them understand how foxtail millet is beneficial in keeping the heart healthy. (Image: istock)

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It is rich in iron and calcium, and helps strengthen the immune system and balances the blood sugar level. As per experts, it is also rich in complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre, which are helpful in shedding kilos. It is also low in cholesterol, boosts digestion, and is considered good for heart health. (Image: istock)

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First of all, pressure cook 1 cup of foxtail millet for 2-3 whistles. In the meantime, heat a pan, add 2 tsp of ghee or peanut oil, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 4-8 curry leaves, 1 tsp split urad dal, ¼ cup raw peanuts, and sauté them for 1 min. Next, add ½ cup chopped carrot, 1 inch chopped ginger, and 1 tsp turmeric powder. Mix it all well and cook for 4-6 minutes. Now, add cooked foxtail millet and salt to taste. Mix and cook for another minute and then add 2 tbsp lemon juice and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve! (Image: istock)

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