Rich in Antioxidants, Low in Cholesterol: How Superfood Makhana Helps You Lose Weight

Often referred to as the Indian alternative to popcorn, makhanas, also called fox nuts or lotus seeds, are a tasty, easy to prepare, versatile snack.

Among their many benefits is the fact that they help you lose weight. For instance, a single cup of roasted makhana - about a 32 g serving - only adds up to 106 calories. They also have 67 per cent lesser fat than popcorn.

Makhanas are rich in antioxidants and micronutrients and are low in cholesterol and sodium. Being low in fats and saturated fats also makes an ideal snack for diabetics and heart patients. Importantly, they are gluten-free, making them a superfood.

They also slow down signs of ageing. Finally, they are high in fibre and also help flush out toxins from the body.

Makhanas are considered 'Satvik Bhojan' and offered to gods and goddesses. They are also the ideal food when fasting, be it for Navratri, Durga puja, or Ramazan, since it helps regulate the digestive system.

In India, Bihar accounts for 85 per cent of the total makhana production.

So the next time you have hunger pangs, satiate your urge with some roasted makhana, the perfect tea-time snack.

Watch the video to see the many benefits of makhana and understand how it is harvested.

Sources:

6 Interesting Makhana Benefits; Written by Rachael Link, MS, RD on May 5, 2021
12 Proven Health Benefits Of Makhana (Fox Nuts); published on PharmEasy
Makhana in Hindu Mythology

Edited by Divya Sethu