What are the Health Benefits of Makhana

They are very small to see, but they are very big in terms of health. Some of the health benefits of Makhana are:

1. Minerals and Nutrients

Makhana is a good source of protein, carbohydrate, fiber, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, vitamins, minerals, manganese, thiamine, nutrients, and phytochemicals. It is an excellent fasting food because during fasting the body is deprived of all these minerals and essential nutrients and when taken to break the fast, the body becomes active again.

2. Weight Loss

Makhana is rich in fiber and low in calories. Due to the fiber content, it keeps you full for a long time and since it is low in calories, you can easily eat these cute little balls as a snack between meals. It enhances the metabolism and thus enhances the changes in weight loss to a great extent.

3. Low Glycemic Index

Lotus seeds have a low glycemic index as compared to higher carbohydrate foods like rice, bread, etc. This quality makes this food an excellent choice for health-conscious people.

4. Anti-Inflammation

Fox nuts are also rich in flavonoids. Flavonoid is a natural chemical that helps reduce the risk of inflammation.

5. Kidney Health

Lotus seeds regulate blood flow as they have astringent properties. When the blood flow is properly regulated, kidney function becomes easier and it also avoids frequent urination, which improves kidney health.

6. Gluten Free

They are rich in protein and gluten-free, they keep you energized throughout the day. Vegetarians get a good amount of protein.

7. Aids in Digestion

Since makhana is rich in fiber, it promotes proper digestion and helps in absorbing all the nutrients. In this way, the excretory system is maintained better and thus the risk of constipation is reduced.

8. Regulates blood pressure

Lotus seeds flush out excess water and sodium from the body. It has the right balance of sodium and potassium which helps in reducing blood pressure. They have calming properties that also help in controlling blood pressure.

9. Heart Health

Studies show that eating makhana regularly helps in healing myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury which is a cardiac condition. This means that the seeds help strengthen the heart and aid in the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. As mentioned, it also helps in maintaining the blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of stroke too!

10. Respiratory System

Fox nuts help in rejuvenating the respiratory system. It helps to clear the respiratory tract and reduce the formation of mucus on the walls of the lungs, so they help in maintaining a good respiratory system.

11. Pregnant Women

Makhana is a vegetarian source of protein, magnesium, phosphorous, and many other essential minerals and nutrients that are essential for the proper development of the baby and gives the mother a complete package of all these essential nutrients and anti-oxidants. Therefore, pregnant women can have a great breakfast by roasting makhana, or adding it to their curry, or making Kheer.

12. Stress Relief

Fox nuts have stress-relieving properties. It improves neurotransmission and helps in producing hormones and neurotransmitters in the right amount making it a natural stress reliever.

13. Inhibits contraction of muscles

Muscle contractions often cause muscle spasms. The presence of potassium and magnesium in makhana helps in reducing and preventing muscle contractions thereby reducing muscle spasms. They also help in maintaining the elasticity of the muscles so consuming makhana will help in strengthening the muscles and have good muscle tone.

14. Diabetes Food

Rich in fiber and protein, low in calories, and a proper balance of glycemic index, sodium, and potassium, it all makes it an excellent food for diabetic patients. They can consume this food without the fear of increased levels of sugar in the blood, although consuming too much is not recommended.

15. Stops Diarrhea

The high caustic properties present in makhana helps in preventing prolonged diarrhea and improves appetite.

16. Improving Immunity

Makhana helps to detoxify the body and regulate the correct production of RBCs, WBCs, and platelets in the blood. These are known to fight infections and ensure good health by removing foreign bodies from the body. Thus, it improves and boosts immunity (Immunity Booster).

17. Brain Health

The amount of thiamine in makhana helps maintain the healthy cognitive function of the nerves. It also contributes to the production of acetylcholine, which is essential for neurotransmission. This means that it enhances brain health and improves memory.

18. Fertility

Studies in men have shown that eating makhana increases the quality and quantity of sperm and in women it enhances fertility. It also fights against erectile dysfunction.