A recent study conducted by researchers at Hokkaido University and the University of Sydney has unveiled the health benefits of sorghum. “The team identified unique lipids that were known to have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties” named fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) and characterized the diverse lipid profiles among six sorghum cultivars. This research was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Photo Credit: Luis Rodriguez/Unsplash
Sorghum, a lesser-known grain fed to animals in developed countries, boasts significant nutritional potential that remains largely untapped for human consumption. “This oversight presents a critical challenge for health-conscious consumers and nutritionists who are increasingly searching for sustainable food options to address chronic health issues. Sorghum is not only abundant but also resilient, requiring fewer resources than many other crops, making it environmentally friendly.” (Technology Networks Applied Sciences, 2024; Nath et al. 2024)
This new research by Nath et al. 2024 suggests that incorporating sorghum into diets could promote cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance metabolic health.
The primary objective of these scientists’ research is to identify comparable compounds in a variety of cereals and food sources, thereby improving our comprehension of these lipids and their functions in human health, nutrition, and agriculture.
“Sorghum is a grain that is both versatile and has substantial health benefits,” concludes Professor Shu-Ping Hui, the other corresponding author.
“This research not only addresses the demand for sustainable food alternatives but also fosters the development of functional foods.” (Technology Networks Applied Sciences, 2024; Nath et al., 2024)
Sorghum Recipes
If you are unfamiliar with how to use sorghum in cooking, be sure to check out Bob’s Red Mill for sorghum-based recipes – which are available on their website at:
Bob’s Red Mill: Sorghum Grain – Recipes
https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/using/gluten-free-sorghum-grain/
Basic Preparation for Gluten-Free Sorghum Grain
I have tried several recipes myself and they are excellent. These include:
Curried Carrots and Sorghum
https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/curried-carrots-and-sorghum
Roasted Cherry Tomato Arugula and Sorghum Salad
Mediterranean Sorghum Grain Bowl
https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/mediterranean-sorghum-grain-bowl
And with Thanksgiving right around the corner (November 28), you can try this recipe for sorghum and cranberry stuffing:
Sorghum and Cranberry Stuffing
https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/sorghum-and-cranberry-stuffing
References
Nath LR, B. Gowda SG, Roberts TH, Gowda D, Khoddami A, Hui SP. Nontargeted lipidomics of sorghum grain reveals novel fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids and cultivar differences in lipid profiles. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2024;72(37):20690-20703. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c05919
Press release. Sorghum’s bioactive compounds could improve modern diets. Hokkaido University. October 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.global.hokudai.ac.jp/blog/sorghums-bioactive-compounds-could-improve-modern-diets/
The sustainable grain with anti-diabetic properties. Technology Network Applied Sciences. October 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/the-sustainable-grain-with-anti-diabetic-properties-392651
Sustainable RDN 