eng Enviro Research Publishers Current Research in Nutrition and Food Science Journal 2347-467X 2322-0007 2026-03-02 14 Special Issue Sustainable Nutrition February 2026 25596 article Nikhita Ramesh Boda 1 Afiya Sayed Kadri 1 Shivalingsarj Vijaykumar Desai 2 Karaikurichi Viswanathan Ramani 3 Devaraj Parasannanavar 1 Department of Clinical Epidemiology, ICMR–National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India Department of Biotechnology, KLE Technological University, Hubballi, India Centre of Excellence in Healthcare Management, L J University, Ahmedabad, India Millets are regarded as climate-resilient, nutritionally rich grains that offer superior health benefits in comparison with conventional cereals like rice and wheat. From among the millets, Finger millet (Eleusine coracana) is considered  prominent in view of  its high calcium content (~350 mg/100 g), while Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) provides superior iron and zinc, and Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is abundant in phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant capacity. This review compares three major millet varieties with staple cereals in terms of macronutrients, micronutrients, essential amino acids, dietary fibre, and key vitamins and minerals. Millets promote metabolic health, help regulate blood glucose due to their naturally low glycaemic index, and reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Their unique bioactive compounds- flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and lignins, offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut-modulating benefits. Although anti-nutritional factors (eg: phytates, tannins) may limit nutrient absorption, traditional processing methods enhance bioavailability. Overall, this review underscores the millet-specific nutritional and functional benefits that strengthen their relevance for addressing malnutrition, improving metabolic health, and contributing to sustainable food systems. Greater awareness and policy support are essential for integrating millets into mainstream diets to advance both public health and climate-resilient agriculture. https://www.foodandnutritionjournal.org/vol14nospl-issue-sustainable-nutrition-2026/nutritional-comparison-of-pearl-millet-sorghum-and-finger-millet-with-wheat-and-rice-a-functional-food-perspective/ Conventional Cereals Functional Foods Millets Nutritional Benefits Sustainable Agriculture