Abstract

CLINICAL IMPORTANCE OF NUTRACEUTICALS PROPERTIES OF MILLETS: A REVIEW

Dr. Vicky S. Pawar*

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Abstract

In spite of the presence of high nutritional and nutraceuticals components of Millets, their consumption remains well below in developed countries where diet-related chronic diseases are alarming. Millets are considered as rich source of phytochemicals such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, catechins, phytic acid, and phytosterols. These phytochemicals are reported to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This study will help to know its clinical importance. Most of the health benefits associated with the millets are generally due to the presence of phytochemicals. Some epidemiological studies have shown that regular consumption of millet grains and their products is associated with reduced risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, CVD and cancers. Phytosterol esters have the potential to reduce serum LDL. Arabinoxylanoligosaccharides and xylooligosaccharides have a prebiotic effect in the colon and are beneficial for intestinal microbiota. Many healthful effects are attributed to millets and some of these effects have more scientific support. But the strongest evidence for health effects of millets comes from animal studies and evidence from human studies is still limited. Also, there is a lack in the processing techniques, machinery, and standardization of products. Because of health benefits of Millets, these grains do need a great promotion to reach heights of the major cereals in terms of their utilization.

Keywords: Nutraceuticals, Millets, Antioxidants.