Makhana: Nutritional Profile, Benefits,Uses of Fox Nut

Benefits of Makhana

Makhana, also called Fox Nut, Phool-Makhana, Lotus Seed, or Gorgon Nut, comes from a plant called Euryale Ferox which grows in the stagnant water of ponds.

Since ancient times, it is a popular ‘fasting’ dish prepared during religious festivals and other occasions. They are added to curries, side dishes, desserts, or as a snack food in Indian cuisine to provide a delicious treat.

At the same time, after roasting lotus seeds, it makes the best snack any time of the day. In addition, filled with a variety of nutrients, which are often used traditionally as medicine to treat a variety of conditions. Also, They have been linked to many health benefits including improved heart health, support weight loss, protection against inflammation, and cures for chronic disease.

The botanical name of it Euryale Ferox Salisb. (Euryale Ferox) Syn-Euryale Indica Planch. It belongs to the Nymphaeaceae (Nymphaeaceae) family. Makhana in English is known as fox nuts and the name lotus seeds is known worldwide.

Nutritional Profile

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, are a popular snack in many parts of the world, especially in India. They are the seeds of the lotus plant, which are dried and roasted to make a tasty and nutritious snack.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional profile of Makhana:

Nutrients Value per 100g, serving of roasted Makhana provides the following

  • Calories: 100 grams of it contain around 350-400 calories, making them a high-calorie snack.
  • Carbohydrates: it is a good source of carbohydrates, with around 64 grams per 100 grams.
  • Protein: it is also a good source of protein, with around 9 grams per 100 grams.
  • Fat: Makhana is low in fat, with around 1 gram per 100 grams.
  • Fiber: it is a good source of fiber, with around 14 grams per 100 grams.
  • Minerals: it is rich in several important minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus.
  • Vitamins: Makhana is a good source of B vitamins, especially thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2).

Makhana is an excellent source of protein and fiber and they are low in fats.

They are a decent source of several other micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.

Here are the intriguing health benefits of makhana.

Benefits of Makhana

it is also believed to have several health benefits, such as aiding in digestion, improving heart health, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

Great source of antioxidants

it has a wide variety of antioxidants, all are important for your better health.

These antioxidants include:

  • Gallic acid
  • Chlorogenic acid
  • Epicatechin

These antioxidants protect against chronic conditions, such as heart disease, reduce insulin resistance, and cancers.

In addition, studies have shown that the various antioxidants found in makhana help protect your cells from free radical damage, which is linked to many chronic diseases.

Aids heart health

On the basis of animal studies say that makhana extract may benefit heart health.

Makhana seeds are an excellent source of important nutrients that may promote heart health and protected neutralize harmful free radicals

As they contain antioxidants such as gallic that may help protect the heart against oxidative stress to improve heart health, they can reduce the risk of strokes. (study)

As well as they have a moderate amount of potassium, which is important for regulating blood pressure and significantly reducing high cholesterol.

Good source of protein

The benefits of eating makhana also include fulfilling the deficiency of protein.

Makhana has a good amount of protein, About 10.71 grams of protein contains 100 grams of makhana.

May improve blood sugar control

Makhana seeds have several intriguing properties that improve blood sugar management.

Despite being high in carbs, makhana seeds are a good source of fiber which improves blood sugar regulation and increased several antioxidant enzymes.

Several animal studies suggest that specific makhana seeds may help prevent blood sugar spikes and help increase insulin sensitivity.

Support weight loss

Makhana has rich in properties that may support weight loss.

Makhana has two important weight loss key nutrients, such as protein and fiber.

The high proportion of fiber helps you stay fuller for a long time. On the other hand, Protein has been shown to reduce food cravings and help curb your appetite.

In addition, studies have shown that they are low in fat, which is the most calorie-dense nutrient.

Anti-aging properties

Research done on the use of makhana in skin-related problems has found that makhana is rich in antioxidant properties. This property can prove to be helpful in removing the effects of aging on the skin such as wrinkles.

In fact, makhana’s amino acids, which are known for their anti-aging properties, include glutamine, cysteine, arginine, and methionine.

Glutamine, an amino acid found in collagen, supports skin hydration and elasticity. Methionine and arginine have also been shown to have anti-aging effects which can help reduce skin elasticity and slow signs of aging.

Popular uses of Fox Nut (Makhana)

it, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular uses of Makhana:

  1. Snack: it is a popular snack, especially in India, where it is often roasted with spices and rock salt to make a tasty and healthy snack.
  2. Breakfast cereal: it can be used as a breakfast cereal by mixing it with milk, honey, and fruits. It is a nutritious and filling breakfast option.
  3. Sweet dishes: it can be used to make sweet dishes like kheer or pudding. The seeds are cooked in milk, sweetened with sugar or jaggery, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, or other spices.
  4. Curry: it can be added to curries and gravies to enhance their taste and texture. It is often used in vegetarian curries and is a great substitute for paneer or other high-fat ingredients.
  5. Roasted or fried: Makhana can be roasted or fried to make a crunchy and tasty snack. It can be flavored with a variety of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and chili powder.
  6. Baby food: Makhana can be mashed and added to baby food to provide a nutritious and healthy meal for infants.

Overall, it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor, nutrition, and texture to a variety of dishes.

Conclusion

Makhana, also known as Foxnuts. Commonly included in dried fruits, this popular food is used all over the world. People consider it a good source of energy during fasting.

They are great sources of protein and fiber along with antioxidants and micronutrients. Adding makhana seeds to your diet may help slow signs of aging and aids heart health, also weight loss friendly.

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