Ancient African grains have become quite popular in this modern world. Quinoa being most popular but there is one more grain which is quickly gaining the attention of the world. Fonio is one of the oldest cereals of Africa also popularly knowsn as “miracle grain”. It is being cultivated and used for over thousands of years by the people of West Africa. Fonio grains whole foods are just 1mm big and are also known as “hungry rice” because it is so delicious that it can make anyone feel hungry.
It has delightful and slightly nutty flavour. It is often considered as a food of royalty or food for special occasions. Fonio is rich in amino acids which are very useful for our health. It is gluten-free and can be cooked in a very less time. It is rich in fibre and actually contains four times the protein, thrice the fibre and twice the iron when compared to brown rice.
Some of the benefits of Fonio whole foods are mentioned below:
Curing Diabetes
Fonio has a low glycemic index and gets absorbed in the body rapidly. It efficiently and quickly releases energy, thus lowering the chance of any fluctuation in blood sugar level. It also contains some properties that help to maintain glucose levels and minerals that decrease inflammation and swelling.
Celiac disease
Celiac can be defined as an immune reaction that occurs by eating gluten. Suffering from this means that consuming certain grains can have a negative impact on your body, which can also lead to damage to the small intestine. As you know, Fonio is gluten free, so it can be consumed without affecting your health. It also actually helps to improve your digestion and reducing bloating and bowel problems.
Prevention of Anaemia
Due to its high concentration of iron, it is very beneficial to fight and prevent anaemia. The folic acid and amino acids are also quite helpful in pregnancy.
Detoxifying agent
Fonio contains amino acids like cysteine and methionine, which help to detoxify the liver and body. They remove toxic and unwanted materials from the bloodstream, thus helping the liver to function better.
Provides energy
It is a great source of energy and gets easily digested, thus providing you with a slow release of energy that lasts long.
Improve nails and hair strength
Methionine present in Fonio is important for the production of cartilage in humans, which results in improved growth and strength of hair and nails.
Strong bones and teeth
Fonio is also rich in calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, all of which are useful in building strong bones and teeth. This makes it ideal for children and senior citizens as it prevents osteoporosis.
It can be used in stir-fries, vegan burgers, salads, buddah bowls, and in many other ways. In the year 2019, it was named as future food for the world by the world wildlife fund. It requires a very minimal amount of water to grow and can be harvested three times a year. Plus, its extensive root system helps to fight soil erosion. Fonio is the cure to hunger, drought, and poverty.