Fox nuts, also known as Makhana are commonly associated with fasting. Fox nuts, which have been used as a snack for millennia, have numerous health benefits. The Chinese utilize them as medicine because of their therapeutic characteristics. The spleen and kidneys are aided by fox nuts.
When it comes to nutritional value, almonds, walnuts, cashews, and other dried fruits pale in comparison to fox nuts. These are frequently used in Indian cuisine. Roasted with a dusting of spices and condiments, they make a delectable snack. Take a look at some of the advantages they provide.
Makhana’s nutritional value:
Makhana is a high-protein, high-fibre, low-fat superfood. The energy content of 100 grams of makhana is roughly 347 calories.
Makhana contains approximately 9.7 grammes of protein and 14.5 grammes of fibre. Makhanas are an excellent calcium source.
They also have a lot of magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. Makhana also contains a few vitamins in smaller amounts. Magnesium is necessary for optimal metabolism and plays a role in everything from muscle function to neuron function to protein synthesis.
Makhana is high in carbohydrates as well as other minerals such as calcium and iron. Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth, and iron is required for healthy blood. Overall, fox nuts’ nutrition adds a lot to your diet, particularly if you’re deficient in nutrients and fibre.
Makhana (Fox Nuts) Has the Following 12 Health Benefits:
- The protein level of fox nuts is extremely high. This is why they are such an important fasting snack because just a handful can provide you with enough energy to last the entire day. The majority of snacks are deep-fried or contain a lot of preservatives and additives. A bowl of fox nuts will satisfy your hunger while also keeping your calorie intake in check.
- Fox nuts are high in antioxidants, making them an excellent anti-ageing meal. Every day, a handful of almonds can help you seem younger and make your skin glow. The only drawback is that they can’t be eaten as fried snacks. Some of the important antioxidant compounds present in Makhana nuts include gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin. These may help to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and chronic diseases such as diabetes.
- Fox nuts are an excellent snack for diabetics and heart patients since they are high in healthy fat and low in saturated fat. Makhanas are a wonderful weight-loss diet because of these qualities. Makhana extract has been demonstrated in animal experiments to lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels, as well as ameliorate fatty liver disease symptoms. A similar study found that diabetic rats had lower levels of the same indicators. Although further research is needed, the benefits of fox nuts make it a promising snack for people who want to improve their heart health.
- Fibre is abundant in fox nuts. They help with the digestive process by preventing constipation and adding bulk to the stool.
- Fox nuts are excellent detoxifiers. They aid in the removal of toxins from the body. They are extremely beneficial to the spleen, which acts as a cell graveyard in the body. It recycles RBCs (red blood cells). Because it also stores white blood cells and platelets, the spleen is the nerve center of the immune system.
- The glycemic index of fox nuts is low, which means they release glucose slowly into the bloodstream. This will make you feel fuller for longer.
- Fox nuts are gluten-free but still high in protein and carbohydrates, making them ideal for anyone with wheat allergies.
- Magnesium and potassium levels are high, whereas sodium levels are low. As a result, fox nuts are an excellent weight-loss snack. Patients with hypertension benefit from a combination of high potassium and low sodium. Potassium lowers blood pressure, whereas salt tries to raise it. As a result, persons with high blood pressure can eat fox nuts without experiencing a jump in their blood pressure.
- Kaempferol, a natural chemical found in fox nuts, helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Most modern ailments, such as diabetes, arthritis, and rheumatism, are caused by inflammation. In addition, fox nuts are antimicrobial.
- Makhna also has a lot of thiamine, which implies it can help with cognitive function. Foxnuts aid in the production of acetylcholine in the body, which aids in the process of neurotransmission. The process of neurotransmission is essential for the nerves to operate properly.
- Because fox nuts have inherent astringent characteristics, they are a good snack for persons who have weak kidneys. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities of fox nuts aid in the reduction of inflammation and the consequences of oxidative stress.
- Due to stress and lifestyle changes, mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia are becoming more widespread. Insomnia, in particular, may be debilitating, as a lack of sleep can lead to deteriorating health and decreased cognitive function, lowering productivity. Instead of relying to store-bought drugs to treat sleeplessness, try a simple home treatment using a handful of fox nuts. Only milk and dates are needed to make this desi antidote. It only takes a few hours to soak a few dates and fox nuts in water. Drain them and combine them with a glass of milk in a blender. This fox nut smoothie should be consumed before going to bed. Honey can be added for extra sweetness. Consume this regularly for a few days and you’ll notice a difference in the quality of your sleep.
What is the best way to make Makhana?
Here are a few quick and easy ways to incorporate makhana into your diet:
| Recipe | Method |
| Spicy Makhana | Add 3 cups fox nuts to a pan with ghee and roast for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add black pepper, salt, turmeric powder, red pepper powder, and chat masala to the pan and mix well. At this point, you can add whatever additional chaat masala you want. Keep the container sealed. |
| Caramel Makhana | Until the fox nuts are done, roast them in oil or ghee. In a separate pan, melt the jaggery with a tiny amount of water and allow to thicken slightly- Stir the fox nuts into the melted jaggery until they are completely covered. Enjoy it once it has cooled off. |
| Makhana Chat | To avoid charring, dry roast the makhana for 4-5 minutes (you can also add ghee or oil). Remove the cooked makhana from the pan and add a little ghee. Add spices like red chilli powder, turmeric, chat masala, and salt to the spice mix, stir well, and set it to cool. Combine onion, tomatoes, coriander, tamarind, green chutney, lime juice, and toasted peanuts with the spiced makhana. Serve with sev and coriander leaves as garnish. |
How Much Should You Eat Every Day?
The calories in 100 grammes of foxnuts are estimated to be around 347. Additionally, 100 grammes of foxnuts include 9.7 grammes of protein, 0.1 grammes of lipids, 76.9 grammes of carbs, and 14.5 grammes of fibre. This means you must consume enough food to meet your requirements. If you want to lose weight, for example, 30 grammes of foxnut per day is useful. However, you should visit a nutritionist or dietician to determine your daily foxnut intake depending on your unique needs.
Excessive consumption may cause digestive difficulties such as constipation, gas, and feeling bloated. In diabetic patients, an increase in insulin levels can dramatically lower blood sugar levels. As a result, excessive consumption must be avoided. Some people may be allergic to them.
FAQs About Makhana
Is the meal served at Makhanas hot or cold?
Makhana is tri-dosic, meaning it balances the Vata and pitta doshas by increasing tissue moistness and having a cool potency.
When is the best time to consume Makhana?
Makhana, also known as fox nuts, is a delicious snack to have between meals or at midnight. They’re high in protein and low in salt, cholesterol, and fat. They’re also gluten-free, making them great for gluten-allergic persons.
Is it possible to eat makhana every day?
Yes, makhanas can aid digestion and prevent constipation. They are excellent anti-ageing meals due to their high antioxidant content. A couple of makhanas every day will also keep your skin looking young. It’s important to remember not to eat it as a fried snack.
How many makhana should I eat daily?
Every day, you can safely eat 1-2 Fruit of Makhana.
Tip: Instead of frying makhanas, roast them.
What is makhana made of?
A plant named Euryale Fox, which grows in the still water of lakes or ponds in Eastern Asia, is the source of makhanas, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds. They have a long history in Chinese medicine dating back three thousand years, and they play a significant role in Ayurveda as well.
Conclusion about Makhana
A complete snack is a makhana. They offer great health advantages and are packed with necessary nutrients. These tiny nuts make a fantastic snack and are ideal for quelling mid-afternoon cravings. Although makhanas are fantastic, there could be adverse effects like allergies or digestive issues. Be a little more cautious when consuming too many makhanas if you have a sensitive stomach.
To lose weight quickly, avoid replacing your main meals with makhanas. Your general lifestyle will determine whether you lose or gain weight. Consume fox nuts in moderation. Be active and practise regular exercise.
You should experiment with makhanas because you never know when you’ll come up with the ideal recipe for a snack. By consuming makhanas, you’ll not only support the nation’s local farmers who cultivate makhanas while also enhancing your health.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided solely for educational reasons and is not intended to replace the medical treatment provided by a healthcare professional. Because each person’s needs are different, the reader should check with their doctor to see if the information is appropriate for them.
Also Read About the History of Ayurveda