Soak ragi seeds in water for 8 to 12 hours and viola! You have nutrient-dense, fibre-rich sprouted ragi, that can support you immensely while working towards your weight-loss goals. You can cook it with milk or water, sweeten it with honey and add cinnamon to make a healthy porridge. You can also grind it with urad dal to make a nutritious dosa. You can even blend it with nuts, dates and jaggery to roll them into energy-booster ladoos. Upmas, pancakes, idlis, rotis, smoothies, khichdis and even salads can be made with sprouted ragi as a major ingredient. As for its taste, it has a slightly different flavour as compared to its unsprouted counterpart and has a nuttier, earthier taste. Here are a few reasons why women should add this simple ingredient to their diet:
1) It's a great source of calcium and will help you manage the risks of osteoporosis and other bone issues that come with age.
2) If in the childbearing age, it can also prevent iron deficiency anaemia, weakness and fatigue.
3) Being high in fibre, it can make you feel fuller, reduce cravings and help you with weight management. It will also ensure that you meet your daily nutritional requirements.
4) Did you know sprouted ragi can mimic estrogen's effects on your body? This will help regulate your hormones and help you handle menopause and menstruation issues, better.
5) Collagen production is another plus point of sprouted ragi as it contains vitamin C, antioxidants, protein and enough hydration.
The possible side effects
As with any food item, do not forget that sprouted ragi may not suit everyone's body. It can cause allergies like itching, skin rashes, itching and gastronomical issues if you already are sensitive to ragi-based food items. If you are diabetic, the carbohydrates in it can affect your blood sugar levels and therefore, it's better to consume it after consulting with your doctor. Also, if you don't ensure that the ragi you soak aren't pesticide-free, you can be prone to possible health risks if consumed in large quantities.
