Brain Boosting Benefits of Ragi you never knew 

When one hears about smart food, we would envision some nuts like almonds walnuts, or perhaps even green tea. But did you ever know of ragi and its brilliant brain power effects?

Otherwise, there is nothing to concern. You are not only one.

I got to know the ragi first when my grandmother strongly told me to drink ragi porridge when I was going through my exams. I was not so much excited about it at that time. However, now, I am honest to say I appreciate her wisdom. Here is why you want to add this simple millet to your plate especially when you wish to maintain a clear and healthy brain. 

So what is Ragi?

Ragi

Finger millet which is known as ragi is another grain that is cultivated in India and some regions in Africa. It has been used in the South Indian kitchens over centuries. You will hear it being used in most meals like Ragi dosa, Ragi mudde ( a soft ball made of Ragi flour) or even as an healthy drink.

Ragi is whole grain unlike refined white rice or refined flour with all its nutrients still inside. That is not only satisfying, but incredibly healthy, as well. 

What Makes Ragi Good to the Brain? 

And here we come to the juicy part. What is the reason to care about ragi as far as your brain is concerned? 

Here are reasons, which may amaze you:

1. Ragi contains Lots of Iron- Good to be Mentally Alert

Have you ever known that your brain requires sufficient supply of oxygen to function well? Iron facilitates the transportation of oxygen in your blood, and ragi is an amazing source of iron, not to mention that, compared to other cereals, this one has a lot of it. 

The deficiency in iron may cause you to feel fatigued, cloudy or forgetful. I have observed that, as I increase the intake of iron-rich food such as ragi in the day, my concentration becomes better. It is as good as making your brain have some fresh air.

2. It has Natural Relaxants 

There is something in ragi, which is known as tryptophan, an amino acid that helps to relax the mind. Seeing you are a person who has a tendency of feeling anxious and hard to sleep, a warm bowl ofragi porridge at night can do the trick.

Personally, I recall one of my friends commenting that when her evening snack was changed to ragi, it is now easier to sleep during stressful working deadlines. This is a little change, but it made a great difference. 

3. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels- Enhances Focus

Have you ever eaten a sugary snack and felt very energetic at some point only to crash?

That must be the case due to sugar rush.

Ragi is low on the glycaemic index and this implies that it takes time to pass on sugar to your blood stream. This is in order to have an even energy level. And energy that is stable also implies improved concentration and reduced mood swings.

That is one of the reasons why most parents in India offer ragi to school going children. It makes them go on with their lives without sleeping all over and without the hiccups. 

4. High Antioxidant Level -Anti Ageing of the Brain

And to get older is actually a bit slowing your brain down. Yet, there are foods that can slow down that process. Ragi contains plenty of antioxidants that battle the attacks of stress and aging. 

Others even assume that the frequent use of antioxidant foods such as ragi can lower the chances of getting such diseases as Alzheimer disease or Parkinson in the future.

5. Assists in Improved Sleep and Mood

The food we consume has a much association with our mood and sleep patterns. Ragi aids in adjusting levels of serotonin that is the feel good or happiness hormone, boosting the general mental wellbeing.

Have you ever been cranky or too emotional without any reason? At times it is not only hormones, but also your diet. Ragi also contains key nutrients such as magnesium and calcium, which have the power to improve your mood and promote healthy sleeping patterns.

The Best Way to Include Ragi in the Diet

It does not mean that you have to go old-fashioned to enjoy ragi. These are some simple ways of trying it out:

• Ragi Porridge: It is fast to prepare and ideal during breakfast.
• Ragi Roti: You can just add water to ragi flour in the proportions you want and make flatbreads.
• A good alternative is Ragi Dosa or Idli, South Indian but with a twist.
• Ragi Cookies or laddoos: A healthy snack, particularly, in children.
• Ragi Malt Drink: It is a refreshing drink and nutritious.

Tip: Ragi flour alone is hard to digest especially when not used to this taste so combine it with wheat flour or rice flour and gradually add the proportion as you get used to this taste.  

A Good Grain that fits all ages

Ragi can help you whether you are a school-going child taking exams, an office-going individual who spends a lot of time, staring at computer screens, or when you are in your 50s and you want your memory not to give up on you yet.

The greatest thing is that? It is natural, cheap and abundantly accessible in Indian grocery shops as well as online.

Last Thoughts: Do not overlook this Desi super grain

Ragi does not have the glamor that quinoa has or the fame that oats have, indeed, when it comes to brain health, it shushes many so-called super foods.

Personally, I have witnessed how it has helped me improve concentration, fatigue and even lighten up my spirits, when added to my everyday diet. It is that kind of a thing that happens slowly, but surely- and that is the type of change that all of us require.

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