Health benefits of makhans you must know. Photo: istockphoto.com
New Delhi, India (BBN) - Makhan, also called fox nuts or lotus seeds, is a non-cereal grown in the stagnant water of wetlands, tanks, ponds lakes and ditches.
This food has always been popular as a fasting food, and has cemented its place as a significant aspect of Indian different ceremonies, reports NDTV.
But now, this snack's health benefits have taken the world of food and nutrition by storm.
In fact, its health benefits are shown to surpass those of dry fruits such as almonds and walnuts as well! Some major health benefits include:
• It helps enable weight loss, as it is high in fiber and low in calories.
• It is beneficial for those suffering from heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, as it has a low sodium and high magnesium content.
• It helps repair damaged proteins as it contains an anti-aging enzyme.
• Its glycemic index is significantly lower than most high carbohydrate foods like rice, bread, etc.
• Ayurvedic beliefs suggest that its astringent properties benefit the kidneys.
• It also has a natural flavonoid called kaempferol which helps prevent inflammation and ageing.
• Makhans are gluten-free, protein rich and high in carbohydrates.
So, makhans are delicious, economical, easy to prepare and yet wholesome and healthy. Now you may be wondering, how can you incorporate makhans into your diet? It's quite easy, actually. Makhan seeds can be eaten raw, roasted or ground. They can also be added into gravy dishes, soups and salads by being soaked in water overnight. The puffed seeds could also be used in kheers or puddings. Moreover, you can also grind it and add it to soybean, bajra and jowar flours to prepare gluten-free, protein-rich rotis.
BBN/MMI/ANS