How to have 'little millet' or 'chaama' for weight loss?

Mail This Article
Little millet is a gluten-free grain that's been part of our traditional foods for a long time. A powerhouse of nutrition, it has been a popular presence in the diet, especially in various dishes of our rural communities. In Kerala, it is used to make various dishes like 'chaama kanji,' paayasam, upma, dosa, idli, ada, and even puttu and avalose unda. Being an easily digestible nutrition source, many also prefer it while they are recovering from various diseases, especially the post-partum period. According to the Ayush Ministry of India, the grain also relieves thirst and fever and heals venereal diseases. The millet, which has around 70% carbhohydrates, around 9% protein, 10% fibre, 5% fat and various B, E vitamins, also has a low glycemic index.
Here are a few ways in which you can use 'chaama' for weight loss:
1) Use it as a substitute for white rice. You can also make pulao or khichdi with it. If you like the taste, you can make porridge or upma with it. It can also be used as a base for salads.
2) It should be soaked before cooking to enhance its nutrient absorption and for it to digest well.
3) Ensure you don't consume too much of it, as it can sometimes cause thyroid imbalance. Portion control is crucial.
4) Adding berries or other dried fruits and nuts of your choice, you can make a warm chaama porridge, adding plant-based milk, as your breakfast.