Is finger millet helpful for diabetics?

Answer 1

Finger Millet/ Ragi for diabetes: Finger Millet's phytochemicals help in slowing the digestion process. This helps in controlling blood sugar level in condition of Diabetes. In a study conducted in 2000, it was found that Finger Millet based diet helps diabetics as it contains higher fiber than rice and wheat. Also, the study found that diet based on whole finger millet has lower glycemic response i.e. lower ability to increase blood sugar level. This is due to presence of factors in ragi flour which lower digestibility and absorption of starch. A more recent study conducted September 26, 2011, by the Association of Food Scientists and Technologists concluded that it is an important staple food in India for people of low income groups. Nutritionally, its importance is well recognized because of its high content of calcium (0.38%), dietary fiber (18%) and phenolic compounds (0.3--3%). They are also recognized for their health beneficial effects, such as anti-diabetic, anti-tumerogenic, atherosclerogenic effects, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

see: http://eprints.icrisat.ac.in/2828/1/J_Food_Sci_Technol_Health_Benefits_of.PDF