These are very small on the eye, but they are very big when it comes to their health benefits. Some of the health benefits of makhana are:

1. Minerals and Nutrients

Makhana is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, iron, zinc, vitamins, minerals, manganese, thiamin, nutrients, and phytochemicals. It is an excellent fasting food as the body is deprived of all these essential minerals and nutrients when fasted and when taken to break the fast the body is re-energized.

2. Weight loss

Makhana is high in fiber and low in calories. It keeps you full for longer due to the fiber content, and since it’s low in calories, you can easily munch on these cute little balls as a between-meal snack. It increases the metabolism and thus enhances the weight loss changes to a greater extent.

3. Low glycemic index

Lotus seeds have a low glycemic index compared to most carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, bread, etc. This property makes this food an excellent choice for those who are health conscious.

4. Anti-Inflammation

Fox nuts are also rich in flavonoids. The flavonoid is a natural chemical that helps reduce the risk of inflammation.

5. Kidney health

Lotus seeds regulate blood flow as they have astringent properties. When the blood flow is properly regulated, the functioning of the kidneys becomes easy and it also prevents frequent urination, thus improving the health of the kidneys.

6. Gluten free

They are high in protein and gluten free, keeping you energetic throughout the day. Vegetarians get a good amount of protein.

7. Aids in digestion

Since makhana is rich in fiber, it promotes proper digestion and helps absorb all the nutrients. In this way, the excretory system is better maintained and therefore reduces the risk of constipation.

8. Regulates blood pressure

Lotus seeds remove excess water and sodium from the body. It has the right balance of sodium and potassium which helps lower blood pressure. They contain calming properties that also help regulate blood pressure.

9. Heart health

Studies suggest that eating makhana regularly helps to cure myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury, which is a heart condition. It means that the seeds help strengthen the heart and help the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. As mentioned, it also helps maintain blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of stroke as well.

10. Respiratory system

Fox nuts help rejuvenate the respiratory system. It helps clear the airways and reduces the formation of mucus on the walls of the lungs, thus helping to maintain a good respiratory system.

11. Pregnant women

Makhana is the vegetarian source of protein, magnesium, phosphorus, and many other necessary minerals and nutrients that are essential for the proper development of the baby, providing the mother-to-be with a complete package of all these essential nutrients and antioxidants. Therefore, pregnant women can nibble on makhana very well by roasting them, adding them to their curries, or making kheer.

12. Relieve stress

Fox nuts have stress-relieving properties. It improves neurotransmission and helps produce the proper amount of hormones and neurotransmitters, making it a natural stress reliever.

13. Prevents muscle contraction

Muscle contractions often lead to muscle cramps. The presence of potassium and magnesium in makhana helps reduce and prevent these muscle contractions, thus lessening muscle cramps. They also help maintain the elasticity of the muscles, so consuming makhana will help strengthen the muscles and have good muscle tone.

14. Food for diabetics

Rich in fiber and protein, low in calories and glycemic index, adequate balance of sodium and potassium, everything makes it an excellent food for diabetic patients. You can consume this food without fear of an increase in blood sugar levels, however, it is not recommended to consume too large an amount.

15. Prevents diarrhea

The high amount of caustic quality present in makhana helps in stopping prolonged diarrhea and improves appetite.

16. Improves immunity

Makhana helps detoxify the body and regulate the proper production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. These are known to fight infections and ensure good health by removing foreign bodies from the body. Therefore, it improves immunity.

17. Brain health

The thiamine content in makhana is helpful in maintaining healthy cognitive functions of the nerves. It also contributes to the production of acetylcholone, which is essential for neurotransmission. This means that it improves brain health and improves memory.

18. Fertility

In men, studies have revealed that eating makhana has increased the quality and quantity of sperm and in women it increases fertility. It also combats erectile dysfunction.