MAKHANA
Makhana (also known as prickly water lily seeds, popped lotus seeds, foxnut or gorgon nut), one of India’s traditional snacks is back. Long known for health giving properties, the nutritional benefits of eating Makhana are valued by medical science and now makhana is being popular worldwide. These small little balls are the new superfood and a powerhouse of nutrition and can prevent several diseases.
Nutritional Count Of Makhana (100g)
- Calories – 356cal
- Fats – 0.5g
- Proteins – 8.7g
- Carbohydrates – 79.8g
- Fibre – 14.5g
- Calcium – 60mg
Rich In Antioxidants
- Makhana is rich in various antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. In particular, makhana contains specific antioxidants like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin. Antioxidants can also reduce inflammation, which could be beneficial for inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Helps In Weight Loss
- Adding makhana seeds to your diet is a great way to boost your intake of protein and fiber — two key nutrients that may benefit weight loss. Protein, in particular, has been shown to reduce food cravings and help regulate your appetite. Meanwhile, fiber moves slowly through your digestive tract to keep you feeling full during the day. Some studies show that consuming a higher amount of fiber could be linked to reductions in belly fat, as well as increased weight loss. Still, additional studies are needed to evaluate the effects of makhana specifically on weight loss.
Promotes Heart Health
- Makhana seeds may benefit heart health. Makhana extract improves cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Makhana extract protects the heart against injury and helped neutralize harmful free radicals. Can help lower blood pressure levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. The flavonoids in Makhana can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.
Reduces Blood Pressure
- They are high in magnesium and potassium and low in sodium. This makes fox nuts an ideal snack for those watching their weight. High potassium and low sodium is a great combination for patients suffering from hypertension. The potassium brings down the blood pressure and sodium tries to bring it up. So those who suffer from high blood pressure can snack on fox nuts without facing any spikes in their blood pressure.
High In Protein
- Fox nuts have really high protein content. This is why they make such an important part of fasting food because a handful can provide you with energy to last the entire day. Most snacks are either deep-fried or have a high amount of preservatives and additives. Having a bowl of fox nuts will fill you up and also keep the calories in check.
Strengthens Bones
- Makhanas are rich in calcium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in bone development. Their high calcium content makes them suitable for bone and tooth health. Makhanas are a very good source of calcium. They also contain magnesium, potassium and phosphorus in a good amount. Makhana are rich in calcium. Calcium improves bone and cartilage health, lubricates your bones and joints, and prevents degenerative bone diseases. Makhana are low in cholesterol and calories and thus helps you maintain the perfect weight.
- Makhana has ample amounts of carbs as well as other minerals like calcium and iron. Calcium is vital for healthy bones and teeth, while the iron is essential for healthy blood. Overall, fox nuts nutrition brings a lot to your diet especially if you are lacking in minerals and fibre. Makhanas were previously underappreciated. Makhana has become more popular in recent years as people have become more health conscious. People are rediscovering the once-forgotten snack for its nutritional value. Makhanas of various varieties can also be found in supermarkets.
