Makhana is the name given to Lotus seeds or fox nuts in India. It is usually consumed during fasting or used as a component in Indian cuisine or sweet meals. However, few individuals are aware of its health and nutritional benefits. It is a well-recommended dietary supplement that is widely available. It can be found in any grocery shop and has a long shelf life, so it may be kept in an airtight container for a long period. Just keep it out of direct sunlight and away from dampness.
Besides being a healthy snack, it can also be used as medicine, as it did in the Middle Ages. The micronutrients included in lotus seeds are extremely beneficial to the human body.
Nutritional Value
Lotus seeds are cholesterol-free, saturated-fat-free, and sodium-free. Manganese, potassium, magnesium, thiamin, protein, and phosphorus are all abundant in them. A 100-gram serving of lotus seed contains 350 calories, with 65 grams of carbohydrates, 18 grams of protein, and 1.9 to 2.5 grams of fat. Water, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, and calcium make up the rest. These are high in fibre, which aids in the correct functioning of the excretory tract. It aids in the removal of all spleen from the body and keeps it free of unwanted cholesterol, thereby preserving the body's cholesterol level. Potassium concentration is beneficial to the heart since it lowers the risk of heatstroke and hypertension.
It aids in the removal of extra water and sodium from the body. It is extremely beneficial in the event of muscle contractions, which can lead to cramps. The thiamine content of lotus seeds aids in the maintenance of healthy neuron cognitive processes. The consumption of Lotus seeds aids in the production of Acetylcholine, which is essential for neurotransmission.
Rich In Antioxidants
Makhana is high in antioxidants, which are substances that assist prevent oxidative stress by neutralising damaging free radicals.
Makhana particularly contains antioxidants such as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin.
Antioxidants are thought to play a role in a variety of areas of health, including the prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes, according to research.
Antioxidants can also help with inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease by reducing inflammation.
Aids Weight Loss
Including makhana seeds in your diet is a terrific way to increase your protein and fibre intake, two important nutrients that can help you lose weight.
Protein has been demonstrated to help manage your appetite and lessen food cravings.
Fiber, on the other hand, passes slowly through your digestive tract, keeping you full throughout the day.
According to several researches, eating more fibre has been related to lower belly fat and weight loss.
Still, more research is needed to determine the effects of makhana on weight loss in particular.
Benefits Of Consuming Makhana
Makhana (Fox Nuts) have a minimal calorie, fat, and salt content. As a result, they're the ideal in-between-meal snack. They also make you feel full, which reduces your desire to binge eat.
They're great for folks with high blood pressure because they're low in sodium and high in potassium and magnesium.
The high calcium content of fox nuts (Makhana) is beneficial to bone and tooth health.
Because of their low sugar content, they are ideal for diabetics who have a strong desire to eat frequently.
The astringent qualities of fox nuts make them beneficial for renal problems.
How To Consume Makhanas
The adaptability of these seeds is what makes them so appealing. The seeds can be roasted or fried in a small amount of ghee until they pop and resemble popcorn. As a snack, mix these puffed seeds with a pinch of black salt.
In many Japanese and Chinese delicacies, a paste produced from lotus seeds is a fundamental ingredient. The seed has a neutral flavour that absorbs the flavours that are added to it.