Fox nuts or lotus seeds, nutty and called Makhana, is a widely-known snack in Asia especially India. These small, inflated seeds have been applied for the remedy for diseases and cure since ancient times and have recently come to spotlight due to their great values for the health of a person. But let’s come straight to the point, what makes Fox nuts or lotus seeds an exception? Whether your goal is shedding a few pounds, getting more fit or wanting to savor on a mouth-watering, healthy treat; Makhana brings a satisfying taste and scrumptious profile to the table.
Nutritional Value of Makhana
Let’s look at more detail at the nutritional composition of Makhana before going deeper in its health impact. It is credited for having small servings of seeds that are very much helpful for those who are on a reduced calorie diet. They also contain a healthy amount of Proteins, Carbohydrates, Fiber and Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium.
One serving (about 100 grams) of Makhana provides:
- Calories: 347 kcal
- Protein: 9.7 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
- Fiber: 14.5 grams
- Calcium: 60 mg
- Magnesium: 56 mg
The combination of low fat and high fiber is what makes Makhana a standout snack, especially for those trying to stay healthy.
1. Helps in Weight Loss
If you are hunted for a delicious meal that does not have to go to a weighing machine then this is it. I present to you Makhana which perfectly fits the description. It is measured low in calories but contains a high amount of fiber which will help fill your belly thereby avoid having to take snacks in between meals. Its crunchy feature also makes it as suitable snack than chips or popcorn.
2. Helps in Digestion
The health of an individual depends a lot on the digestion system and as much as Makhana contributes to digestion health for having rich fiber contents. Fiber is critical for healthy bowel movement hence prevents one from being a victim of constipation. Fox nuts or lotus seeds can be eaten as a directed apply regularly it will help you keep your digestion in good shape and optimum performance.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances, which neutralize those free radicals that are potentially damaging to the cells of your body. Makhana contains many antioxidant compounds, for example, flavonoids and polyphenols that are very important in defending your cells against corrosion. This aids in avoiding accelerated aging, and various associated disease types, as well as certain forms of cancer.
4. Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes patient or individuals who want to maintain the level of sugar in their bodies should take Makhana as a snack. It has low glycemic index which implies that the rate at which it releases glucose into the blood stream is slow and is appropriate to maintain high amounts of blood glucose. This makes Fox nuts or lotus seeds suitable for consumption as a snack that will enable one to have a constant power supply throughout the day.
5. Supports Heart Health
The heart-gcing benefits of Makhana, as confirmed, Origins in its magnesium and potassium profile. A bonus is the ability of magnesium in dilating blood vessels, thus decreasing the hypertension risk while potassium assists in controlling the sodium levels in the body, thus preventing hypertension. Combined, they promote cardiovascular health, which makes Fox nuts or lotus seeds good for the heart, and for snacking.
6. Good for Kidney Health
Deto xifying your body is paramount in supporting kidneys and the good news is that Makhana assist in this process. These seeds help in removing toxins from the body since the seeds have a diuretic effect on the body. It has also been suggested that follow up of Fox nuts or lotus seeds on a small daily basis could help in maintaining a healthy renal function as well as enhancing detoxification in the body.
7. Enhances Skin Health
In case any individual is seeking for a natural method to look young and glowing skin, then, Makhana might be the solution. It is for this reason that the seeds enjoyed a reputation of having natural anti aging elements being surged with antioxidants. They assist in the removal of fine lines, wrinkle and any other symptoms of aging hence ensuring you achieve a youthful look.
8. Boosts Cognitive Function
Long term people would remember this delicacy known as Makhana as food that is good for the body it is also food for thought. These seeds provides the body with nutrients such as thiamine that plays a part in the proper functioning of nerve tissue in the brain. Fox nuts or lotus seeds can be considered as a brain boosting snack than the conventional snacks as it has been observed to enhance memory, concentration and general intelligence.
9. Strengthens Bones
Makhana contains a lot of calcium, and therefore the food is helpful in enhancing the strength of our bones. Calcium is important in bone mineralization and play a role in avoidance of such diseases as osteoporosis. It also possible to have an increased intake of food with high calcium nutrient, Makhana facilitates this by maintaining and improving the bones’ health in the long-run.
10. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Swelling is a defence mechanism by the body against an injury or disease-causing organism, however it can turn out to be toxic if occurs in the long term hence leading to diseases like arthritis. Makhana, as an anti inflammatory food is suitable for consumers experiencing Arthritis and other related inflammatory ailments.
How to Add Makhana in Your Diet
What makes Makhana so special, is the possibility of its use in everyday diet in a vast variety of ways. They can be roasted with some ghee and salt and makes a great snack or they can be used in any curries or even in desserts. Some popular recipes include:
- Roasted Makhana with spices
- Makhana kheer (a sweet pudding)
- Makhana in salads or soups for added crunch
Precautions and Possible Side Effects
Makhana as a whole is not complicated to digest and it is safe fo mayoría of people but, over consumption of this food leads to some problems such as bloating and constipation due to fiber content. Furthermore, anyone that notices certain allergies then they should seek medical advice before they include Makhana in their diets.
Where can I buy Makhana?
You can buy organic Makhana straight from India (where it is handmade) from below :
Conclusion
Makhana is a healthy snack that can be taken at any time of the day in its raw or roasted form and can help in weight loss, improve heart and kidney function. If you want a healthy snack without any guilt or you need that extra push to improve your health then Makhana is the perfect addition to your daily meals.
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