Characterization of Amino Acid Composition, Nutritional Value, and Glycemic Index Study of Eleusine coracana Grains: A Functional Food for Diabetes Management

Abstract

Despite the potential health benefits of finger millet, there is a research gap in understanding its glycemic index (GI) and nutritional quality. This study addresses this gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the nutritional content, phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity, amino acid composition, and GI of Eleusine coracana grains. Samples from different regions of India, ranging from 65 m to 1900 m above sea level, were analyzed. The phytochemical, nutritional, and amino acid compositions in Eleusine coracana were assessed by using standard protocols and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Furthermore, a GI study was conducted in experimental Wistar rats. Results revealed significant phenolic content (35.92–40.69 mg GAE/gm) and flavonoid content (32.02–37.33 mg RE/gm), protein (7.99–8.18 gm/100 gm), and a rich mineral profile (calcium: 260.7–282.7 mg/100 gm, iron: 4.13–4.9 mg/100 gm). The in vitro antioxidant assay showed that it has a very strong antioxidant activity. The GI study in experimental rats showed significantly lower GI values of Eleusine coracana grains (41.30–44.11) compared to rice (89.71) and wheat (62.46). These findings provide evidence for incorporating Eleusine coracana into dietary recommendations for diabetes management. Overall, Eleusine coracana grains have proved in the present study that they have very good nutritional quality and can be included in the diet of diabetes mellitus patients to manage blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of diabetic complications.