Makhana is full of benefits, know its benefits, disadvantages and the right way to eat it

Health Benefits of Makhana: To stay healthy, our elders used to advise us to include many special things in our diet. Eating different types of fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and dry fruits has always been considered beneficial for health. This makhana is full of properties. It is a good source of fiber, protein and calcium. Many other nutrients are also found in it. Due to its properties, it is also called superfood. It is especially very beneficial for women.

Makhana is a low-fat snack and can be included in the diet in many ways. However, some people should eat less makhana. Let's know from experts what are the medicinal properties of makhana, what are its advantages and disadvantages, how it can be included in the diet and who should stay away from it. This information is being given by dietitian Nandini. She is a certified dietitian and nutritionist.

What is Makhana?
Makhana is a delicious and nutritious snack. It is also eaten during fasting. It is actually the seed of the lotus flower. It is also extracted from water lily. In India, Makhana is grown mostly in Bihar. The process of collecting, drying and storing Makhana is very long and after this process Makhana reaches us in this form.

What are the medicinal properties of lotus seed?
Makhana is full of medicinal properties. It is also called superfood due to the nutrients present in it. Makhana is low in sodium and fat. It also contains a good amount of protein and fiber. Makhana is rich in vitamin C, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. According to experts, 100 grams of makhana contains about 10.71 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. 100 grams of makhana contains about 71 grams of carbohydrates.

Benefits of Makhana

• Its glycemic index is very low. Therefore, diabetic patients should include it in their diet. By consuming it, blood sugar level remains under control.
• Makhana is rich in iron. Therefore, people who suffer from anemia or often feel weakness and fatigue should consume makhana.
• Makhana provides relief from constipation. Due to the presence of fiber in it, the stomach gets cleared easily by consuming it.
• Lotus seed has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It reduces oxidative stress. It reduces inflammation in the body and also provides relief from joint pain.
• It reduces insulin resistance. Therefore, women suffering from PCOS should consume it.
• Lotus seed has detoxifying properties. By eating it, the toxic elements present in the body get eliminated and the body remains healthy.
• Due to the magnesium and potassium present in it, consuming it keeps blood pressure under control. At the same time, the amount of sodium in it is low, which helps in controlling blood pressure.
• If you are trying to lose weight then this healthy breakfast can prove to be best for you.
• Makhana is rich in antioxidants. It also reduces the signs of aging.
• Eating the food during pregnancy is also considered beneficial.
• Makhana is also good for heart health.
• Its effect is cold. Its consumption is especially beneficial in summers.
• People who are suffering from arthritis should consume it.
• Lotus seed has a high amount of protein. Therefore, after eating it, the stomach remains full and there is no unwanted craving.
• Makhana contains isoquinoline alkaloids. This helps in getting good sleep and also reduces stress.
• Due to the anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties present in it, it is also considered good for gums.
• Proper time to eat makhana
• According to experts, makhana can be eaten anytime.
• Eating it on an empty stomach is also beneficial for health.
• If you are trying to lose weight then eat it in the evening with green tea.

Makhana can be included in the diet in many ways

• You can fry makhana in light ghee and eat it as an evening snack.
• Makhana and paneer tikki in dinner is also considered good for weight loss.
• It is also beneficial to eat makhana soaked in milk.
• In some places it is also made by mixing it with vegetables.
• Makhana is also used in some smoothies.

Disadvantages of Makhana

• Eating makhana is very beneficial for health and it does not cause any harm to health. But, it should be consumed in limited quantity.
• Especially those people who have weak digestive power should eat makhana in small quantity.
• If you frequently have upset stomach or diarrhea then do not eat makhana.
• Experts also advise not to eat makhana if you have kidney stones.
• If you are allergic to makhana or any dry fruit, then consult a doctor at least once.