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International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)

e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 10 | Oct 2025

p-ISSN: 2395-0072

www.irjet.net

Glycemic Response of Millets-based Diets – A Review Annapurna A1, Gayathri C2, Tehamina3, Babitha B4 1HOD, Dept. of Food Science & Technology, SDMSM Kalasala, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

2 & 3 Faculty, Dept. of Food Science & Technology, SDMSM Kalasala, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India 4Assoc. Prof., Dept. of Food Science, Nutrition & Dietetics, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Andhra Pradesh, India

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Abstract - A major contributing factor to the rise in

the quality of carbohydrates is related to metabolic health. High glycemic index (GI) diets have been linked to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, according to numerous studies (S. Rizkalla et al., 2014). Consuming refined grains and simple carbs is consistently associated with a greater incidence of metabolic diseases, according to epidemiological studies (Kristin L. Morris et al., 2009). Low-GI diets have been linked to certain metabolic advantages, such as decreased insulin and postprandial glucose responses, improved lipid profiles, a possible decrease in fat production and an increase in insulin sensitivity. Although the research indicates that the type of carbohydrate has a major impact on metabolic health, customized dietary methods might be the most successful (E. Blaak et al., 2016).

prediabetes and metabolic syndrome worldwide is the use of refined carbohydrates and poor eating habits. Millets are nutrient-dense, ancient cereals that have gained popularity recently as functional foods that can improve metabolic health and regulate glycemic response. Because of their nutrients like dietary fiber, bioactive phytochemicals, and slowly digesting starch, they may help control blood sugar and fat metabolism. Concerning glycemic management and metabolic health in adults with prediabetes or at risk of type 2 diabetes, this review summarizes the most recent research. Consuming millet has been linked to enhanced insulin sensitivity, decreased glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and decreased postprandial glucose excursions in numerous studies. Bioactive substances that seem to affect oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, and glucose transport include polyphenols, flavonoids, and resistant starch. Millets may also improve lipid profiles by increasing HDL concentrations and decreasing triglycerides and total cholesterol. Diets based on millet have been shown to have potential as a dietary intervention to enhance metabolic health and glycaemic control.

Millets are seeing a global comeback as functional foods because of their remarkable nutritional profile and several health advantages. The potential of millets to alleviate nutritional issues is constantly emphasized by researchers. Their nutrient density and climatic resilience are highlighted by Rashmi Singh et al. (2023), while Amadou et al. (2022) describe their bioactive components that may have disease-prevention qualities. There is strong evidence that millets, which are high in protein, dietary fiber, minerals, and polyphenols, have the potential to help manage cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and promote gastrointestinal health. The convergence of dietary requirements, climate adaptation, and health consciousness is transforming millets from underutilized crops into possible global functional food solutions. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the effects of millet-based diets on glycemic response, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammation in adults with prediabetes.

Key Words: Millets, Glycemic response, Prediabetes, Insulin sensitivity, Dietary fiber, Functional foods

1.INTRODUCTION With an increasing incidence in different countries, prediabetes and metabolic syndrome represent a substantial and growing global health burden, impacting hundreds of millions of people globally. According to Jean Jacques Noubiap et al. (2022), the prevalence of metabolic syndrome varies based on the diagnostic criteria, ranging from 12.5% to 31.4% worldwide. Metabolic illness disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) have increased 1.6 to 3-fold over the past three decades, with the burden being greatest geographically in populated nations like as China, India, and the United States (Huai Zhang et al., 2024). With a substantial progression risk to type 2 diabetes, prediabetes is becoming more widely acknowledged as a diverse disorder (U. Hostalek et al., 2019; L. Sandforth et al., 2025). To address this escalating metabolic health catastrophe, the pattern points to the urgent necessity for international public health initiatives.

1.1 Millets and their Nutritional Significance Millets are termed Nutri-cereals as they are nutrientdense, drought-resistant grains with exceptional nutritional significance, offering a comprehensive profile of essential nutrients and potential health benefits. They include pearl, finger, foxtail, kodo, barnyard, tiny, and proso millet, which are a class of grains with small seeds. They are abundant in proteins, dietary fiber, complex carbohydrates, vital minerals, and bioactive substances, including flavonoids and polyphenols. Millets are loaded with vitamins, minerals (iron, zinc, and magnesium), proteins, and carbs (Raju C. A. et al., 2024). They are also noteworthy for having high levels of

There is strong evidence that dietary carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index, increase the risk of metabolic disorders. Additionally, there is evidence that

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