Date: 26 April 2026
Venue: Mel Mana Gardens, Ooramana

Theme: Health Through Food: The Power of Millets
Keynote Speaker: Mr. Nasar Ezhuthenikkad

1. Introduction

The 181st Seminar of the Global Millets Foundation (GMF) in association with the Sustainable Development Forum (SDF) was successfully conducted on 26th April 2026 at Mel Mana Gardens, Ooramana. The seminar focused on the critical theme of “Health Through Food: The Power of Millets,” highlighting the growing importance of dietary choices in preventing and managing lifestyle diseases.

The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Nasar Ezhuthenikkad, a passionate advocate of natural healing through food and a living example of disciplined health transformation.

2. Highlights of the Keynote Address

2.1 Personal Transformation as Inspiration

Mr. Nasar shared his powerful personal journey from a body weight of 165 kg to 85 kg. This transformation was achieved not through shortcuts, but through consistent discipline, dietary correction, and the inclusion of millets in daily nutrition. His experience stands as a practical demonstration of how lifestyle changes can reverse serious health challenges.

He further noted that his transformation extended beyond himself, positively influencing his family members, many of whom experienced improved energy levels, recovery from lifestyle ailments, and enhanced overall well-being.

2.2 The Crisis of Modern Food Habits

The speaker emphasized the growing health crisis caused by modern dietary patterns. He identified key concerns in contemporary food consumption, including:

High intake of refined carbohydrates
Excess sugar consumption
Use of hydrogenated fats
Presence of artificial ingredients
Low dietary fiber

Such food habits, though appealing in taste, contribute significantly to the rise of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and digestive issues.

2.3 Millets as a Nutritional Solution

Mr. Nasar highlighted millets as one of the most ancient and nutritionally superior grains. He elaborated on their health benefits:

Rich in dietary fiber, supporting digestion and gut health
Good source of protein for muscle strength
Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy
Contains essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium
Low glycemic index, making them suitable for diabetes management

Unlike polished rice and refined wheat, millets release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, thereby helping regulate blood sugar levels and aiding in weight management.

2.4 Food as Medicine

A central message of the keynote was the principle: “Food is for health, not health for food.”

Mr. Nasar stressed that proper food choices can prevent many diseases naturally. He advocated for a return to traditional, natural diets consisting of:

Millets
Vegetables and fruits
Nuts and seeds
Minimally processed, natural foods

He cautioned that while supplements may have a role, they cannot replace the value of real, wholesome food.

2.5 Importance of Holistic Lifestyle

The speaker underscored that good health extends beyond diet alone. Essential lifestyle factors include:

Regular physical activity
Adequate and quality sleep
Effective stress management
Proper hydration
Positive thinking
Consistency in healthy habits

3. Key Message and Conclusion

Mr. Nasar’s life journey stands as a compelling testimony that transformation is achievable through determination and informed choices. His message reinforced that by changing our food habits, we can shape a healthier future.

Millets were presented not merely as food grains but as a pathway to improved health, sustained energy, and prevention of lifestyle diseases. The seminar concluded with a collective call to return to natural foods and prioritize health through conscious living.

4. Acknowledgement

The seminar participants expressed their sincere appreciation to Mr. Nasar Ezhuthenikkad for his insightful, practical, and inspiring keynote address.

Special thanks are placed on record to Ms. Sree Vrsha for her effective rapporteur support in documenting the proceedings of the seminar.

Submitted by:
Secretary General, GMF & CEO, SDF
27 April 2026