Roasted Makhana Benefits: Why this Indian snack is the perfect healthy snacking option
Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is a popular fundamental in Indian cookery. It’s used in both sweet and savory dishes and has been gaining fashionability as a healthy snacking option in recent times. It is also used in traditional forms of medicine to treat various conditions. Roasted makhana, in particular, has come to a popular snack due to its innumerable health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of roasted makhana, its price, and why it’s the perfect healthy snacking option.
What is Makhana?
Makhana is a fox nut that comes from the lotus tree. It’s native to India and is widely & commonly used in Indian kitchens. The seeds are collected from the lotus tree and are also preserved and roasted. Makhana has a light, crackling texture and a smooth flavor that makes it a resourceful component in both sweet and savory dishes.
Roasted Makhana Benefits
- Low in Calories
Roasted Makhana is very low in calories, which makes it more resourceful to use in the daily diet. A cup of roasted makhana contains only around 50-60 calories, which makes it a great snack for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is the best snack for those who are health conscious & can be consumed by any age group.
- Rich in Nutrients
It is also rich in nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, protein, fiber, etc., which are otherwise skipped in a regular diet. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, and immunity, and preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. This handful of snacks can provide you with enough energy to last the entire day.
- Low in Fat
Fox nuts are a great option for Chhota bhukh (evening snack) as it is low in fat, which makes it a great snack for those who are watching their fat intake. Unlike other unhealthy snacks such as chips, nankeens, & cookies, which are high in unhealthy fats, roasted makhana contains very little saturated fat. Having a handful of roasted makhana will fill you up and also keep the calories in check.
- Gluten-Free
Roasted makhana is a gluten-free snack and a great option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Celiac disease is an immune disorder where the gulp of gluten can damage the wall of the small intestine. This damage can lead to the malabsorption of minerals, which may raise symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and weight loss. It is a safe and healthy snack option for those who need to avoid gluten & who can’t tolerate gluten by any means.
- Good for Digestion
Roasted makhana is also good for digestion. It contains both dispersible and in-dispersible fiber, which helps to regulate abdominal movements and prevent constipation. The fiber in makhana also helps to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is important for overall digestive system health.
- Anti-Aging Properties
Roasted makhana is also known for its anti-aging properties. It contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, which help to neutralize free radicals in the body. Free cardinals can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to a bit of premature aging and incurable diseases. Eating roasted makhana can help to prevent oxidative stress and keep your skin young and healthy.
- Good for the Heart
Roasted makhana is good for the heart. It is low in cholesterol and sodium and encompasses potassium, which helps to administer blood pressure. Eating roasted makhana can help you to lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Good for the Kidneys
Roasted makhana is also good for the kidneys. It encompasses potassium, which helps to administer fluid balance in the body. This can help you prevent kidney damage and also improve kidney function.
- Good for the Brain
Roasted makhana is good for the brain. It consists of thiamine, which is important for the proper activity of the nervous system. Thiamine is also important for the formulation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is important for memory and learning.
- Good for Diabetics
Roasted makhana is also good for diabetic patients. It has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid spike in your body & also helps you regulate the index. For example, one animal study showed that administering a supplement containing makhana extract to rats with diabetes helped improve blood sugar regulation and increased several antioxidant enzymes.
One of the most popular ways to prepare makhana involves roasting the seeds and seasoning them with your choice of herbs and spices, such as sea salt, turmeric, chili powder, or black pepper. But you don’t need to worry, we have already created a box for your convenience. Grab your Roasted Makhana Snack Box, and also try other healthy snacks.
