what does makhana contain - #23239
I am really curious about this thing called makhana because I've been trying to eat healthier. My friend said it’s supposed to be this superfood but didn't give me much info. The other day I bought a pack of makhana to snack on, and like, I’ve been munching on it while I watch my shows. But now I need to know: what does makhana contain exactly? Like, are there any health benefits, or is it just another fad? I see a lot of people online talking about making makhana into snacks or even using it in curries, but I’m wondering if the nutrition part is legit. I mean, is it high in protein or something? I did some googling, but the info seemed all over the place. Do I need to worry about calories or carbs when snacking on makhana? Sometimes I think I might be overthinking it, but what does makhana contain in terms of vitamins or minerals that I wouldn’t get from, say, almonds or peanuts? I really want to make sure I’m making good choices here! If anyone has some insights or personal experiences with makhana, that would be super helpful.
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Doctors' responses
Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is indeed gaining buzz as a healthful snack option. Nutritionally, it contains a decent amount of protein, reasonable fiber content, and is relatively low in calories compared to other snacks like chips or cookies. For every 100 grams, makhana generally has around 14 grams of protein, making it a good pick if you’re looking for plant-based protein options. What’s also notable is its low fat content and the presence of essential amino acids. In terms of micronutrients, makhana is a source of important minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium, which contribute to various functions like bone health and muscle function. This can make it advantageous compared to some other common snacks such as almonds or peanuts, which might be higher in fat content.
They’re also rich in antioxidants such as kaempferol, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and benefit heart health. However, moderation is key, as with any food. Snacking on makhana can fit well into a balanced diet, but it’s still wise to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if they’re flavored or roasted with oil, which can add extra calories. Calorie-wise, plain makhana contains about 350-380 calories per 100 grams, but a single serving size of about 30 grams can be quite filling. From a nutritional perspective, it’s usually seen as a healthier alternative to more processed snacks. If you’re exploring makhana for the added minerals and lower fat content compared to other nuts, it can certainly be part of a balanced diet, but consider enjoying it alongside a range of other foods to make sure you’re covering all your nutritional bases.
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