Bollywood actor Rakul Preet Singh has shared a key dietary habit she has religiously followed for the past ten years, attributing significant health benefits to a simple swap in her kitchen. The 34-year-old star, in a recent interview, revealed that she has completely replaced traditional wheat flour (atta) with millet-based flours, specifically jowar (sorghum) and ragi (finger millet).
The Decade-Long Dietary Commitment
In a conversation with the YouTube channel Khaane Mein Kya Hai, Rakul Preet Singh explained her long-standing practice. "I have been eating jowar rotis for 10 years now," she stated. While she consumed both wheat and jowar during her childhood, the last decade has seen her commit exclusively to these alternative grains. "In the last 10 years, I have been eating either jowar or ragi. Either of the two," she emphasized.
Singh, known for her roles in films like Thank God, framed this choice as a smart, sustainable adjustment to a common Indian meal pattern. "Your dal, or vegetables or chicken remains the same but the flour changes. You will see differences," she advised. She powerfully summed up the philosophy behind this change by noting, "The gut is the second brain of your body."
Expert Insights on the Health Impact of Millets
Nutrition experts affirm that Singh's decade-long practice of choosing millets over wheat can lead to profound positive effects on the body. Consultant dietitian Garima Goyal highlighted that both jowar and ragi are naturally gluten-free, which makes them easier to digest and ideal for individuals with gluten sensitivity.
Goyal pointed out their high fibre content, which aids in feeling full, helps manage blood sugar levels, and promotes a healthy digestive system. "Over time, this can lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and digestive issues like constipation," she explained. Nutritionally, jowar offers complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein, while ragi is a powerhouse of calcium, iron, and essential amino acids.
"Regular inclusion helps maintain bone strength, supports haemoglobin levels, and contributes to sustained energy," Goyal added. She also reassured that avoiding wheat is not detrimental if one's diet remains varied and balanced, suggesting rotation with other whole grains like rice or oats.
The Hidden Genetic Treasures in Millets
Consultant dietitian and diabetes educator Kanikka Malhotra delved deeper into the scientific benefits, calling these millets "genetic treasures." She noted they are rich in specific amino acids like lysine and methionine, which are largely absent in wheat. "Lysine is especially important for tissue repair, immune strength, and even brighter mental alertness," Malhotra said.
She shared a striking fact about ragi: "It is such a powerful natural source of calcium that, gram for gram, it rivals milk—unexpected for a grain. This feature makes it a secret weapon for anyone at risk of osteoporosis." Regarding jowar, Malhotra highlighted its richness in copper, crucial for healthy red blood cells, and its hidden cache of antioxidants and vitamins that can benefit skin health and provide anti-ageing support by aiding collagen production.
When combined with an active lifestyle, as exemplified by the fitness-conscious actor, such a dietary shift contributes to better metabolic health, improved digestion, and long-term cardiovascular benefits. Rakul Preet Singh's revelation offers a practical tip for those looking to make a lasting, healthy change to their daily diet without overhauling their meals entirely.
