The Role of Millets in Diabetes Management: From Bioactive Compounds to Metabolic Health

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes mellitus (DM), a chronic metabolic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Millets, especially foxtail and finger millet, have drawn interest as functional foods because of their high amount of bioactive compounds and low glycemic index. Purpose: This study examines how millets can help manage diabetes by concentrating on their bioactive components, glycemic control, and gut microbiota modification. Methods: A systematic review of current research was done to highlight the processes via which millets contribute to diabetes control, including their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota-modulating activities. Results: It has been demonstrated that millets, which are high in dietary fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants, enhance glycemic management, lessen insulin resistance, and lessen oxidative stress. However, there are still issues with few human clinical studies and variation in bioactive chemicals. Conclusion: Millets have a lot of promise for managing diabetes, but more study is required to create firm dietary recommendations, especially large-scale human trials.