Abstract

UTILITY OF FINGER MILLET (RAGI) IN POST MENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS: A REVIEW

Shraddha Dube*, Shilpa Varade and Dr. Vinod Choudhari

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Abstract

Introduction: Osteoporosis or porous bone is a worldwide problem characterized by low bone mass and structural detoriation of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased risk of fracture. After the menopause this osteoporotic changes occurs fastly. Though Menopause is natural & inevitable event as a part of normal process of aging, it is becoming a major health issue in recent years. In the era of information and technology woman have dynamic and multidimensional attit ude but Indian woman still has a tendency to ignore her health issue. Low bone mineral density (BMD) was reported with the advancement of age and the menopausal status. Millets are small-seeded plant species well known as the powerhouse in detail under Shuk Dhanya Varga. Several millet grains have a very High Nutritive Value and among them Finger millet (Eleusine corcana)- Ragi in Hindi is Rich source of calcium, protein and other minerals.[4] Materials & Methods: All literature reviewed and compiled from Ayurvedic classic texts (Samhitas, nighantus), text books, magazines, journals, research papers, data available on internet for this review article. Result: Ragi is important millet grown extensively in various regions of India and has the highest amount of Calcium. For Prevention of the menopausal osteoporosis Consumption of Ragi as a diet Product will be beneficial for Post-Menopausal Woman of nutrition. They are of much significance as they can be grown in extreme conditions like low soil fertility, low moisture, hot environmental conditions and drough- affected land. Ayurveda explains millets.

Keywords: Millets, Shukdhanya, Osteoporosis, Menopause, Finger Millet- Ragi.