Makhana has been widely used in traditional oriental medicine to cure various diseases, including kidney problems, chronic diarrhoea, and hypofunction of the spleen. Moreover, it is fast emerging as a superfood globally owing to its rich medicinal values and mineral contents.

Makhanas are rich in nutrients and are a highly potent source of manganese, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, protein, and phosphorus. Roasted makhanas are an excellent teatime snack and a perfect tiffin option for kids. In India, people also make dishes such as kheer, curry, raita, and cutlets using makhanas.

The health benefits and nutritional value of makhanas make them a popular choice for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Origin of Makhana (Fox Nuts)

In India, the state of Bihar is the largest producer of makhanas. Makhanas are derived from lotus seeds. Lotus develops seed pods, and each pod contains approximately 20 seeds that mature within 40 days. The seeds are then dried and roasted on high flames. The outer black shell breaks and the white puffs pop out. These seeds are what we call makhanas.

What Makes Makhana So Popular?

Makhanas/Fox nuts have become extremely popular in recent years due to their high nutritional value. Many celebrities have also spoken about fox nuts and why they include them in their diet.

Makhana is also easily accessible and is a great snacking option. Low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium, it is a great option for munching and maintaining an ideal weight. Supermarkets are also stacked up with different variants of makhanas. Their high fibre content makes them an ideal snack for an instant boost of energy during fasts.

Is It Good for Vegans?

Veganism is a growing trend not only in the west but also in India now. Veganism excludes any animal-based food products like meat, dairy, fish, eggs, etc.

A vegan diet is also called a plant-based diet. Though veganism is a great choice, vegans often fall short of their daily nutritional requirements. However, they are often deprived of the essential vitamins, minerals and proteins in their diet.

This can lead to deficiency-based health disorders in the long run. This is where makhanas can come and fill the need-gap.

Makhanas are loaded with phosphorus, protein, calcium, magnesium, fibre, zinc, etc. They are a perfect choice for a vegan lifestyle. Unlike common ingredients like barley and wheat, they are also gluten-free.

Vegans often have to look around to find a perfect snacking option. Makhana is a great vegan snack for those untimely hunger pangs. These low-calorie nuts are a great option for guilt-free binging.

Nutritional Facts of Makhanas

Makhanas are rich in fibre, which helps keep the excretory tract healthy. It also has potassium that helps in balancing cholesterol levels and keeps the heart healthy. Fox nuts, though small, are a powerhouse of nutrients.

Snacking on them can give you some amazing health benefits like good skin, controlled weight, good heart health, hormonal balance, and so on.

100 grams of Makhana contains:

• Calories: 347
• Protein: 9.7gm
• Fats: 0.1gm
• Carbohydrates: 76.9gm
• Fibre: 14.5gm
• Total Lipids (Fats): 0.1gm
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 1.4mgs