Health Benefits Of Jowar For Your Child

Sorghum or jowar is a grain that originated in Africa, but it is now widely used in Asia. With its potential health benefits and high nutritional value, it should be incorporated into the daily diet. Here are some facts and benefits related to its consumption.

Nutritional Facts

It is high in fibre especially insoluble which makes it a good option for persons, to watch their weight,  to avoid constipation, and other lifestyle-related diseases. 

• It is a good source of complex carbohydrates and proteins, which helps in giving a higher satiety value. Thus it can be easily incorporated into a calorie-controlled diet.
• Sorghum protein is superior to wheat protein in terms of digestibility and biological value. This is means the proteins from sorghum would be easily digested and available for absorption by the body.
• It also is a good source of B-complex vitamins like niacin, thiamin and B6 besides other vitamins.
• Sorghum is also a source of minerals like selenium, phosphorus,  manganese and magnesium.
• Some varieties contain anthocyanins, a potent antioxidant.
• The fat content of sorghum grain is largely unsaturated fats; making it a healthy choice in grains.

Health benefits of Jowar

Following are the health benefits of sorghum for your child

1. Good for Gut health

Sorghum is high in fibre making it very good for your digestive health. Its regular consumption would help in regulating the motility of the gut, hence preventing constipation, bloating, excess gas, stomach aches etc.

2. Has anti-cancer properties

According to a study, the bran of sorghum which is rich in polyphenols may have anticancer properties. (J Med Food. 2018 Oct;21(10):990-998. DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2018.0008. Epub 2018 May 7.)

3. Good for children who are allergic to gluten

In celiac disease, people have a severe allergy to the gluten protein, found in wheat. Since sorghum is gluten-free it is a safe option for people with gluten sensitivity or those avoiding gluten products.  It is a good option for staple, i.e. it can be cooked like rice or used for porridge, gruel, malted grain or even chapattis.

4. Suitable choice in case of diabetes

Simple sugars and refined cereals increase blood glucose levels. So sorghum with its high fibre content is a suitable choice for diabetics. Studies show that there is a reduced response to blood glucose level after its consumption. It may also reduce oxidative stress. Nutr Rev. 2016 Nov;74(11):690-707. Epub 2016 Sep 30.

5. Positive impact on Bone Health

Since it is high in magnesium, which in turn helps in calcium absorption, consumption of sorghum has a positive impact on bone health. Both calcium and magnesium help in bone development and healing of any damaged or ageing bones.

6. Helps in Boosting energy levels

Since sorghum is high in vitamin B like thiamin, niacin and B6, it helps in keeping up our energy levels. This is because these vitamins have a direct role as coenzymes, in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.