Health Benefits of Makhana: Top Snack Choice to lose weight

Makhana, our desi snack is buzzing the tabloids as the new healthy popcorn. Fitness enthusiasts are coining it as the new superfood. And dieticians are raving about it as a must for all. But do you know Makhanas are nothing but lotus seeds? 

Yes! These water seeds are tasty and crunchy, delicious and healthy all at the same time. 

Lotus seeds are not new. It’s an ancient food. In Asia, it was gathered and eaten from prehistoric times. Perhaps, this could be the secret of their enormous energy. They traveled the world on foot and took on animals bigger than their size. 

Don’t believe me? Check out its nutritional profile. It’s tastier than popcorn and healthier than nuts!

Nutritional Values of Lotus Seeds – What makes it a superfood?

Lotus Seeds make a highly nutritious snack. They are perfect for a long safari ride or a road trip. It’s a healthy snack to binge on a hectic office day or enjoys a movie night. Also known as fox nuts, they are one of the best fasting and weight loss foods. 

Lotus seeds are cheap and handy. But it’s the nutritional profile that makes Makhanas a superfood!

They are rich in proteins, fibers, and good carbohydrates. The white seeds also contain a high amount of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. But the best part is that it is low in fats and sodium, has a low GI index, and is gluten-free. Makhanas make a perfect snack for diabetics and heart patients.

That’s not all!

Lotus seeds contain a natural compound called Kaempferol. This flavonoid helps in reducing inflammation and reversing aging. If you don’t already know, Inflammation is the root cause of many modern diseases. Diabetes, arthritis, rheumatism, leg swelling, and inflammation is the culprit!

Lotus seeds in Indian traditions

Makhanas have a very special place in Ayurveda. Ayurveda prescribes Makhana as a great fasting food for Navratri and other sacred occasions. This healthy snack is offered to God during religious functions. 

Ayurveda also suggests the use of Makhana for its medicinal value. It is very good for the heart, spleen, skin, liver, and digestive system. Lotus seed is a great detoxifying food that cleanses the entire system. 

Benefits of Lotus Seeds

Lotus seeds were an important part of Indian snacks for their ample health benefits. And they are making a comeback for the same reason. Check out these amazing health benefits of Lotus Seeds.

You found the perfect fasting food

• A long day of fasting can make you weak and exhausted. 
• It is very important to keep your system hydrated and your digestive fire calm. Makhanas make the perfect fasting food. They can keep your hunger calm and offer a burst of energy to last the day. 
• Makhanas are high in protein, and fiber and contain a host of nutrients. It’s like many nutrients packed in one superfood. Plus, Makhanas are light on the digestive system. It has strong astringent properties that help in preventing constipation, diarrhea, and other stomach woes. 

Also, Read Sago Seeds – A Healthy Fasting Food!

It could be your favorite weight-loss food

Do you know Kareena Kapoor binged on Makhanas for her zero figure?

Dieticians are now prescribing this ancient food for weight loss too. Lotus seeds are full of fiber and keep you fuller for longer. They are also low in calories and contain no cholesterol or saturated fats. 

Lotus seeds also exhibit antioxidant and anti-fatigue characteristics.  It boosts stamina and increases energy levels. This increases endurance and results in better physical performance in the gym. 

How does Makhana help with weight loss?

Lotus seeds, also known as makhana, have been studied for their potential role in weight loss. Some of the findings include:

1. Low calorie: Lotus seeds are low in calories, making them a good choice for those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake for weight loss purposes.
   
2. High fiber: Lotus seeds are a good source of fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall food intake.
   
3. Protein content: Lotus seeds are a good source of protein, which can help to support weight loss by preserving muscle mass during periods of caloric restriction.
   
4. Satiating effect: Lotus seeds have been shown to have a satiating effect, which can help to reduce overall food intake and lead to weight loss.
   
5. Antioxidant activity: Lotus seeds contain antioxidants, which may help to promote weight loss by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
   

These findings suggest that consuming lotus seeds may be helpful for weight loss, although more research is needed to fully understand their potential effects on weight management. It is important to note that weight loss results will vary based on a number of factors, including overall diet and physical activity levels.

Also Read: Idli for Weight Loss

Makhanas can make you age in reverse 

Lotus seeds are rich in antioxidants that slow down the process of aging. The flavonoid Kaempferol, adds anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits to it. 

In addition, Makhanas contain enzymes that inhibit the process of aging. They help in repairing the damaged cells that lead to aging. Munch on Makhanas can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and premature greying of hair. 

Also Read: The secret of looking 20 something at 30

It can be the solution for millennial’s insomnia issue

Insomnia is one of the most nagging problems that the new generation is battling through. A handful of Makhanas can be the simple solution lying just around. Lotus seeds have a calming effect. 

Studies show that Makhanas have nerve-stimulating properties. This super snack induces sleep by reducing stress. They are antispasmodic which means it relaxes the nerves and improves sleep patterns. It can also correct sleep disorders. 

Also Read: Essential Oils for better sleep

Makhana can cure fertility issues

Ayurveda prescribes regular consumption of Makhana for infertility issues. That includes loss of libido, erectile dysfunctions, and improved sperm quality, and sperm quantity. 

Lotus seeds make a great aphrodisiac. In women, Lotus seeds help in strengthening the lining of the uterus. This helps in carrying the fetus and reduces the chances of miscarriage. 

Also Read: Dates for fertility

​It helps in dealing with diabetes

Diabetes can put a lot of restrictions on the diet. That makes it hard to find a great snack for diabetics. But look no far! Makhanas are the perfect snacks that even diabetics can binge on.

Lotus seeds have anti-diabetic and antihyperglycemic properties. They have a low GI index and reduces blood glucose level and stimulates insulin secretion. This nutty snack can also help in handling complications of diabetes like diabetic neuropathy or fatigue.

Also Read: Turmeric in Diabetes Management

Lotus seeds are great for blood pressure

This desi snack is rich in potassium and magnesium, low in sodium, and high in nutrients. It also has a calming effect that relaxes the mind. Thus, it has many benefits for people suffering from high blood pressure. 

Studies say, munching on a handful of Makhanas is one of the best ways of maintaining systolic blood pressure levels. It relieves stress and increases vitality which helps in keeping blood pressure in control.

Also Read: Why High Blood Pressure patients should restrict salt?

Lotus seeds work great against arthritis

These crunchy seeds are loaded with calcium and help in fulfilling their daily requirement. Consuming a handful of Makhanas is very helpful in preventing joint problems, arthritis, and osteoporosis. 

It helps your heart heal

A good snack can heal a broken heart and even an ailing one. Makhana has an antioxidant action that provides cardioprotective properties. It is rich in magnesium which reduces the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Eating a handful of Makhana every day strengthens the heart.

Also Read: How anger affects your heart?

Caution!

There are so many health benefits of Lotus seeds. But like any other food, excess of lotus seeds too can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects are – 

• It can cause digestive issues like constipation, gas, and bloating.
• Excess consumption may lower blood sugar levels tremendously.
• Makhana can cause allergies in some people.

Add Lotus seeds to your snack box – Ayurvedic Doctor’s suggestions

• Lotus seeds are one of the best snacks you can carry around. 
• It is healthy, nutritious, cheap, and easy to make!
• That makes lotus seeds ideal health boosters in our busy schedules. 
• It lowers your blood sugar levels, combats stress, reduces anger, protects your heart, and offers many important health benefits.

So, if you are hunting down the grocery stores looking for healthy snacks then you must ask for Makhana. It has an impressive nutritional value and has been used in Ayurveda for ages.