Lotus seeds or fox nuts or Makhana are becoming one of the most potent superfoods, though silently in India and the rest of the world. Earlier available only in a traditional Indian kitchen, makhana has now been adopted worldwide, because of the health benefits that come with its nutritional content. It has been in recent years that health enthusiasts as well as dieticians have begun to encourage its consumption as not only a snacking food but as an addition to a normal balanced diet. Roasted or added in curries, makhana can offer you some unexpected benefits to your welfare.
In the following article, the article will discuss the top 7 benefits of makhana benefits, the way it aids in weight loss, helps you control the chronic effects, and gives you a better quality of life. At the end of this blog, you will know why this modest seed should ever be included in your pantry.
1. Weight Loss and Healthy Snacking
Among the most discussed makhana advantages, the fact that it helps to lose weight should be mentioned. As compared to most of the packed snacks, makhana is naturally low in fire and calories. Roasted makhana is a perfect guilt free, filling and crunchy bowl of small size. It would be an ideal solution to any individual who would like to manage their hunger pangs without adding excess calories to their bodies. It is also rich in fiber which aids in promoting satiety hence preventing overeating. This qualifies it to be suitable to individuals who are trying to retain or lose weight.
2. Assists in Controlling Diabetes Naturally
The second factor contributing to the growing popularity of makhana is its ability to regulate blood sugar. The glycemic index of Makhana is quite low, producing a slow release of glucose into the system. This prevents spikes in sugar levels and maintains insulin levels. This is very helpful to diabetics or those who are resistant to insulin. Frequent consumption of makhana keeps the energy persistently balanced regularly, which is a clever snaking option of diabetic patients.
3. Enhances blood pressure and heart conditions
The cardiovascular effects of makhana are not to be neglected. Makhana has magnesium and potassium, two very crucial elements to maintain a healthy heart. Magnesium aids to increase blood circulation and protects clogging of arteries. Potassium, det. on the contrary, assists in regulating the level of blood pressure by preventing the unfortunate sodium. Consuming makhana can help prevent heart ailments and stroke, particularly when done in a more active lifestyle and diet.
4. Kidney Friendly and Detoxification
In Ayurveda, makhana was traditionally consumed to build kidney health. It serves as a natural detoxifying agent which helps to expel harmful toxins from the body. Its astringency is favorable on kidney functioning, and it aids in the prevention of urinary tract infections. Individuals who regularly consume makhana can experience enhanced urinary health, a balanced fluid system level in the body, and decreased inflammation.
5. Engordenes the Bones and Flexes Joints.
Makhana is an excellent source of natural calcium which is essential to bone health. This renders it particularly useful to women, seniors, and individuals with joint discomfort or skeleton-related problems such as osteoporosis. Magnesium and phosphorus found in makhana also cooperate to strengthen the bones and make the joints flexible. Eating makhana can thus be an excellent idea to boost your skeletal system particularly in old age.
6. Improves Skin Care and Retards Aging
The positive effect on the skin is one of the more unexpected advantages of makhana. It contains abundant amounts of antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols that combat free radicals and minimise ageing symptoms. The routine intake of the makhana can result in better skin texture, few wrinkles, and natural glow. It also has amino acids that aids in tissue repair and regrowth hence your skin looks young and fresh.
7. Increases gut and digestive health
Finally, makhana aids digestion. It contains a lot of fiber that makes bowel movement smooth and ensures that a person does not become constipated. Individuals with delicate digestive mechanisms can take makhana with immunity because it is easy to digest and does not cause irritations on the inner intestinal linings. It is also a probiotic and works in promoting healthy gut bacteria. Healthy intestines result in increased immunity and vitality.
Makhana as a Superfood in Ayurveda
Makhana is a sattvic food in Ayurveda that has properties to increase clarity, peace, and vitality. It is said to level out all three doshas; Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and hence it can suit any body type. In Ayurvedic literature, one is advised to use it to enhance fertility, to enhance sexual health, and to boost endurance. It can also be helpful in the summer months to prevent internal heating.
Best Ways to Eat Makhana and Gain Optimal Health
To reap maximum benefits of makhana, it is advisable to have it roasted without excess salt or oil. Lightly fry it in ghee and add a pinch of rock salt to get the crunchy, healthy snack. It is also possible to add Makhana to milk in the form of kheer, in curries and even in protein smoothies. Makhana has many health benefits but a small quantity (one to two handfuls of makhana a day) is generally sufficient to provide the health benefits.
Do Any Side Effects Exist?
Although makhana is mostly safe, excessive intake may cause bloating or constipation in some people because of fiber content. Individuals allergic to seeds or nuts are advised to consult a physician before eating it. It is also recommendable to take fresh makhana which are in airtight containers since when they get moisture, they lose crispness and even nutrition.
FAQs
Q1. What are the consequences of eating makhana every day?
The moderate consumption of makhana on a daily basis can aid in digestion, maintain weight, regulate blood sugar and cardiovascular health with minor adverse effects.
Q2. Does makhana help in weight loss?
Yes makhana is low in calories, high in fiber and keeps you longer. This aids in curbing poor eating habits and assists in shedding off weight.
Q3. Can diabetics have makhana every day?
Yes, makhana has a low glycemic index and helps in maintaining normal blood sugar levels, making it a perfect and healthy snack for diabetic patients.
Q4. Is makhana superior to popcorn?
Makhana is also nutritionally better than popcorn as it has higher protein, calcium, and antioxidant levels and lower calories and sodium.
Q5. Is makhana rich in protein?
Yes, plant-based protein derived from makhana is good and so one would recommend it to vegetarians and anyone who would want to increase the intake of protein in the body without the addition of any additives.
Q6. What are the side effects of makhana?
When consumed in excess amounts, makhana can lead to bloating or constipation in individuals. This should be taken moderately and stored well.
Conclusion
Fox nuts (Makhana) is a highly nutritious seed native to the Asian continent, found in great abundance due to its powerful antioxidants and vital micronutrients providing heart health, blood-sugar balance, and weight loss. It is also versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as snacks and desserts, and can satisfy craving, although it is low in calories. Nonetheless, those with sensitive stomachs need to be aware of possible allergies or stomach troubles, and to ensure whatever is enjoyed and safe.
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