Among adults aged 18–45 with low levels of certain vitamins, eating millets instead of regular grains while taking vitamin B12 and D supplements leads to larger increases in blood levels of these vitamins than taking the supplements alone, especially in women.

We analyzed one assertion and found that among adults aged 18–45 with low vitamin B12 and D levels, eating millets instead of regular grains while taking supplements was linked to larger increases in blood levels of these vitamins than taking supplements alone, especially in women [1]. This is the only piece of evidence we’ve reviewed so far, and it supports the idea that millets may enhance the effect of supplements in this group. We did not find any studies that contradict this finding. Millets are small, nutrient-dense grains commonly eaten in parts of Asia and Africa. They contain compounds like fiber, antioxidants, and certain minerals that may help the body absorb or use vitamins more effectively. The evidence suggests that when millets replace other grains in the diet, they might work together with supplements to raise vitamin levels more than supplements by themselves. The effect appeared stronger in women, though we don’t know why from the data we’ve seen. We don’t know if this applies to older adults, men, or people with severe deficiencies. We also don’t know how much millet is needed, how long it takes, or whether other grains might have similar effects. The evidence we’ve reviewed is limited to one assertion with no detailed study methods or numbers provided. What we’ve found so far suggests that adding millets to the diet might help boost vitamin B12 and D levels more than supplements alone in some adults — particularly women — but we need more research to understand how, why, and for whom this matters. If you’re trying to improve your vitamin levels, eating millets alongside your supplements could be worth trying — but don’t expect them to replace medical advice or prescribed treatment.