Millet-based dietary intervention modulates gut microbiota and inflammatory signalling to support glycemic control and healthy ageing

Diabetes mellitus is a common health problem, particularly in the 20–79 age group, in recent times. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, this metabolic disease can be managed. Making the right food choices seems to be important for maintaining optimal blood glucose levels even after a meal. It appears that the prevalence of diabetes is higher in nations like India, where primary staple foods like wheat and rice, which have a higher glycemic index, are consumed. Millet, the most underutilised small-seeded grain, is one alternative diet of choice that can help with diabetes management and healthy ageing. It is regarded as a healthy source of nutrition because of its lower glycemic index and antioxidant properties. In addition, millets are a rich source of bioactive compounds like polyphenols, fibres, phenolic compounds, essential amino acids, and flavonoids, which can increase the potency of other phytochemicals that help in the regulation of host metabolism and help in disease management. Hence, it is considered a beneficial grain to combat blood glucose levels. However, depending on their type, their effects on blood glucose metabolism may also vary. This review explores the potential of selected millets—foxtail, finger, kodo, pearl, and barnyard—as functional dietary interventions for managing diabetes and promoting healthy ageing. This study primarily focuses on the selected millets, and their bioactive components, highlighting their impact on gut microbiota composition, immunomodulatory effects, and regulating key molecular signalling mechanisms underlying their antihyperglycemic properties and supports healthy ageing.