Why Jowar Is The Best Substitute For Quinoa To Lose Weight

Written by Reshmi AR • 
 

Jowar or sorghum is often associated with animals as it is used as fodder. What was once seen as a mere animal feed is now a wonder grain for us humans as it offers immense benefits to our health. This humble millet, native to Australia, is abundantly grown across India. States like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Punjab use jowar flour to make roti and also substitute it for rice.

Health Benefits Of Sorghum

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A treasure trove of nutrients: Sorghum or jowar can be called a wholesome grain as it is a rich source of fiber, calcium, iron, phosphorous, protein, and thiamin. Time to throw away all those health supplements you have been popping and replace with just this one millet! Health is everything in today’s world. Isn’t it? Before we tell you about how this grain can help you lose weight, let’s take a peek into its other benefits.

Battles constipation and aids digestion: Your digestive system primarily depends on your body’s metabolic rate. Adding jowar to your diet can not only handle this issue but also prevent common problems like stomach ache, gastric issues, and bloating.

Lowers bad cholesterol: Thanks to the phytochemicals and plant sterols, jowar has a hypocholesterolemic effect and also lowers the bad cholesterol in your body.

Prevents cardiovascular diseases: We already told you that jowar is a powerhouse of nutrients. A rich source of vitamins B and E, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants, sorghum can reduce the risk of cardiovascular and heart disease as it prevents clumping of platelets.

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Improves immunity: The calcium, copper, and magnesium content in jowar can improve the RBC count and strengthen your bones and tissues, thereby boosting your immunity.

Fights cancer: Research has shown that the 3-deoxyanthocyanidins present in jowar possess anti-cancer properties.

Benefits celiac patients: A gluten-free grain, jowar helps celiac patients fight digestive issues and joint pains. So, for all those battling gluten intolerance, you can add this to your list of gluten-free foods.

Ideal for diabetics: The antioxidants and high fiber content in jowar can regulate your blood sugar levels.

Now, with so many benefits, would you dare to ignore such a wonder grain? Let’s take a look at its effect on our body weight. All of us desire a toned body. No, we are not talking about becoming a size zero, rather losing the excess fat and prevent obesity. Before we begin, answer this question – what changes have you made in your diet to lose weight?

Your answer would most likely be – I have eliminated white rice from my diet and eat brown rice or quinoa instead, right?

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Yes, the first thing we do to lose weight is to chuck the white rice out and switch to something lighter. We all have tried and seen it for ourselves how good it feels when we substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa.

But buying them can be an expensive affair. Isn’t it? Move over quinoa, the new and perhaps the cheapest wonder grain is our own jowar.

If you have recently eaten at any of the five-star restaurants and wondered what that barley lookalike in the salad was, you now know the answer. Don’t be surprised if you find them as a dessert topping as well.

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What makes sorghum better than quinoa?

Well, for one, it’s much cheaper than quinoa. Two, sorghum is rich in nutrients and offers the same benefits as quinoa does for your health. As already mentioned, the grain’s use was earlier limited to feeding livestock. But now, jowar is seen as a versatile superfood that is also eco-friendly as it requires less water to grow as compared to other crops.

How to eat sorghum?

You can use sorghum as a substitute for wheat. Be it bread, pizza, muffins or rotis (Indian bread), jowar can find its use in any of these. Convert it into flour and use it.

Here’s a jowar recipe you can use:

When you have sorghum, its rich nutrients ensure that you feel full and keep those food cravings away. This means no overeating and no extra weight.

So, what are you waiting for? Now that you have found the magic ingredient that can keep a check on your overall health, it’s time to use it.

Are you already using jowar in your daily life? Do you feel any difference? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments box below.

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