Five Proven Health Benefits of Makhana: The Indian Superfood

Makhana or fox nuts are widely cultivated throughout Asia for their various health benefits. These nutrition-filled balls are a staple diet in many households. For many Indians, it brings back fond childhood memories and stirs up nostalgia. These pale-looking balls are extracted from lotus seeds, and separating them from hard-coated lotus seeds takes plenty of time and effort. Fortunately, you can now buy roasted makhana online easily as they’re available in an assortment of flavours. 

Why is it called a superfood?

Makhana is also commonly associated with fasts. It is rich in proteins and fibres and keeps the body well-nourished during fasting. Makhana is a good source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. Makhanas are very healthy for your heart as they are low in cholesterol, sodium and saturated fats. They also make for a perfect snack for weight watchers as they are low in calories, and people on a diet can munch on them guilt-free. 

That is not all! Makhana seeds or lotus seeds offer the following benefits:

• Good for the heart: Makhanas are beneficial for patients with hypertension. The low amount of sodium and high amount of potassium help in lowering blood pressure. The higher level of magnesium in them helps in improving blood and oxygen levels. 

•  Bone strength: Calcium plays a key role in making our bones strong and keeping them healthy. Fox nuts are a good source of calcium making them the perfect bone-strengthening agents.

•  Rich in antioxidants: Antioxidants like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid and epicatechin, are also found in makhanas. Antioxidants help in neutralizing harmful, free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. They play a key role in protecting various chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and some inflammatory conditions.

•  Aids weight loss: Protein and fibre are two main nutrients that benefit weight loss. Makhana seeds have a good amount of protein and fibre making them an ideal weight-loss snack.  

•  Anti-ageing properties: A study has revealed that makhanas contain several amino acids known for their anti-ageing properties. A handful of makhanas every day can promote healthy-looking skin and slow down signs of ageing. 

Makhanas are the best replacement for the tea-time fried snacks we have grown accustomed to. If you’re looking to transform your unhealthy eating habits then head over to Eatier Foods for a range of healthy yet delicious snacking options. Happy snacking!