Commonly known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, Makhana has emerged as a highly nutritious superfood, gaining immense popularity as a healthy snack option. With its multiple health benefits, Makhana is now at the center of national discussions, especially after acknowledged its importance and highlighted government initiatives to promote its farming.
Recognizing its potential, the central government has included Makhana cultivation in its budget plan, while the Bihar government is planning to establish a Makhana Board to improve production and processing.
Makhana Gains National Attention
During his recent visit to Bhagalpur, Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 19th installment of the PM-Kisan scheme. As a part of the event, BJP leaders from Bihar honored him with a garland made of Makhana. Following this, Modi spoke about the nutritional and health benefits of Makhana, stating that he regularly consumes it as part of his diet.
Highlighting India’s growing agricultural exports, the Prime Minister emphasized that it is now Bihar’s turn to showcase Makhana on a global scale. Following this, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also announced the promotion of Makhana production and processing in the Union Budget 2025-26.
Health Benefits of Makhana: Insights from Experts
To understand the health benefits of Makhana, Hindustan Samachar spoke with Dr. Vishwanath, a well-known health and medical expert.
According to Dr. Vishwanath, Makhana is an ideal snack that is readily available in supermarkets and is an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. He pointed out that:
✔ Low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium
✔ Rich in protein, fiber, and essential carbohydrates
✔ Loaded with minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus
✔ Provides instant energy, making it perfect for fasting diets
Makhana: A Superfood for Dieters
Dr. Vishwanath emphasized that Makhana is particularly beneficial for individuals who are dieting and trying to lose weight.
- High in protein and fiber, making it an excellent snack to curb hunger.
- Low in calories, helping in weight management.
- Keeps you full for longer, reducing the need for frequent snacking.
- Prevents obesity by promoting a balanced diet.
Eating a handful of Makhana in the morning can help maintain satiety throughout the day, preventing overeating and unnecessary calorie consumption.
Makhana for Diabetics and Heart Health
✔ Low Glycemic Index: Makhana is highly recommended for diabetic patients as it helps regulate blood sugar levels.
✔ Rich in Potassium: Helps in reducing cholesterol levels and controlling blood pressure.
✔ Natural Antioxidants: Makhana is loaded with antioxidants that help in reducing oxidative stress and eliminating harmful free radicals, which in turn lowers the risk of chronic diseases.