Phool Makhana Benefits: Exploring Its Nutritional Marvels

Phool makhana, also known as lotus seed or fox nut, is a common desi snack in India. Makhana is the popped seed of Euryale Ferrox. It is an aquatic cash crop with high nutritional value and medicinal properties. India, especially Bihar is one of the leading producers of makhana. Ever wondered why makhana is such a famous traditional Indian snack and encouraged by dieticians and doctors all over the place. Well, we have brought you the answer to this question. In this article, we are going to deal with the benefits of lotus seeds and their nutritional aspects as well.

10 amazing benefits of Phool Makhana

Phool makhana is one of the most healthy and beneficial snacking options. You must have seen makhana being roasted as a perfect snacking partner for your evening tea. The antioxidant, aphrodisiac, cardioprotective, spermatogenic, antidiabetic, procreative and antihyperglycemic properties have made it very popular. Here are some of the major benefits of fox nuts.

1. Blood sugar level:

Makhanas have an extremely low glycemic index, which means that they do not increase the blood sugar level. Therefore, various studies have concluded that makhanas can efficiently help in managing and improving the blood glucose level. 

2. Weight loss:

Makhanas are a rich source of protein and fiber, which are the main nutritional components that help in weight reduction. These have a low glycemic index due to which they release energy slowly which makes you feel full for a longer time, thereby, reducing your cravings and regulating your appetite. The High amount of fibers in the diet also facilitates a faster reduction of fat from the belly area.

3. Maintaining kidney health

Makhanas are very good for your kidney and spleen also. They help detoxify and cleanse spleen. Makhanas also help in controlling the blood flow and regulating frequent urination, thereby, minimizing the stress on kidneys. 

4. Maintain heart health

Many studies have shown that the consumption of makhana can reduce the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. These also help in neutralizing the harmful free radicals, thereby, protecting the heart against any injury or disease. Makhanas are a rich source of magnesium and thus help replenish the deficiency of magnesium in heart patients. The low content of saturated fats and sodium also aids in regulating blood pressure.

5. Stronger bone health

Makhanas are a rich source of calcium which is an important component of bone and cartilage. Due to its large calcium content, makhanas are recommended for patients suffering from arthritis. Therefore, makhanas replenish the lost calcium in bones making them stronger and healthier.

6. Promotes cognitive ability

Makhanas are rich in thiamine as well. Thiamine plays an important role in the cognitive functionalities of the associated nerves. Makhanas also generate acetylcholine which triggers neurotransmission. As the acetylcholine level increases, brain function also increases. Thus, consuming makhanas makes the functions of our brain better and quicker. 

7. Better digestion

Since makhanas are rich in high-quality fiber, therefore, their consumption once in a day significantly improves the bowel movement and provides some relief from constipation, acid reflux, and indigestion.

8. Decelerates the ageing process

Makhanas contains a natural ingredient, known as kaempferol. This is a flavonoid that decreases the speed of the ageing process and removes the various signs of ageing like whitening of hair, wrinkles, hair loss, and spots. Makhanas also help in fighting with the free radicals.

9. Compensate deficiency of vitamin B1

Makhanas are also a rich source of vitamins. They replenish the body with vitamin B1, thereby, helping in the treatment of beriberi disease.

10. Maintain hormonal balance

Hormonal imbalance is one of the key problems in females. Makhanas help in maintaining the hormonal balance in your body. Therefore, they help in dealing with premenstrual symptoms and prevent cravings during menstruation. By maintaining hormonal balance, makhanas also ensure the proper functioning of your reproductive organs.

Nutritional facts about phool makhanas

Makhana is one of the most nutritious food items that are appropriate for everyday snacking. Some highly relevant facts about the nutritional value of phool makhana is:

• 100 grams of makhana contains 65 grams of carbohydrate, 1.9 to 2.5 grams of fat, 18 grams of protein, and 350 calories.
• It is a rich source of potassium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, protein, thiamine, and phosphorus.
• It is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
• It is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants.

Takeaway

Makhanas are a pack of nutrition, micronutrients, and antioxidants. Its positive effect can be seen on all the body parts. It ensures the proper functioning of all the body systems. Looking at the variety of benefits of makhanas, they must surely be included in at least one meal of your diet. Above all, there are some amazing and delicious recipes of makhana which satisfy your taste buds and also keep your health and diet in check.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the side effects of consuming makhana?

Excess of anything is bad, similarly, over-consumption of makhana can lead to certain side effects like:

• Gastrointestinal issue
• Allergy 
• Increase in insulin levels
• Flatulence 
• Constipation 
• Bloating 

2. Can makhanas be eaten every day and in which quantity?

You can consume 2 - 3 handfuls of makhana every day but avoid consuming it in the form of fried snacks.

3. Do makhanas expire?

Makhanas generally have a high shelf life and don’t get spoiled easily. The recommended shelf life of makhana is 6 months when stored in a cool and dry place.

4. What are the general characteristics of makhana?

Phool makhanas are generally considered sweet after digestion. They have a cold potency and are heavy, oily, or unctuous in nature.