21 minutes agoAuthor: Gaurav Tiwari
Global News Daily
Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamat is seeing the growing popularity of Makhana as a big business opportunity. He himself eats Makhana and is enthused about its benefits.
Makhana is not a new food in India. Our ancestors used to eat Makhana to remain energetic during fasts. When someone fell ill, he was fed milk and makhana. People still rely heavily on Makhana during fasting and recovery.
The reason for this trust on Makhana is its nutritional value. It contains abundant amount of protein and fiber. Contains important minerals like magnesium and potassium. This keeps sugar level under control, helps in weight loss and improves heart health. That's why it is also called superfood.
so 'medical certificate'Today I will talk about Makhana. You will also learn that-
India is the largest producer of Makhana
India is the largest producer of makhana in the world. In this too, 90% of the country's Makhana is produced in Bihar. It is also called fox nut and lotus seeds.
The market size of Makhana in India is Rs 3000 crore. The way its popularity is increasing, this market size can reach up to Rs 6000 crore in the next 2-3 years. It is being liked very much in other countries also. See the graphic:
Nutritional value of Makhana
The nutritional density of this superfood is high. It is a low calorie food and rich in many nutrients. It contains protein, fiber and carbs. Fat is negligible. See the graphic:
Makhana contains essential minerals
It contains Vitamin A and B1. It also contains important minerals like magnesium and potassium. Look at the graphic.
Health benefits of Makhana
Calcium present in Makhana makes bones strong. It also keeps blood pressure under control. What makes it most special are the antioxidants present in it. Makhana contains antioxidants like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid and epicatechin. This reduces the effect of free radicals and reduces oxidative stress.
This reduces the risk of serious diseases like type-2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer. What are the other benefits of this, see in the graphic.
Some common questions and answers related to Makhana
Question: How much makhana should be eaten daily?
answer: Nutritionist Dr. Anu Aggarwal says that 20-30 grams of makhana can be eaten daily. This quantity is safe and also beneficial for health.
Question: Does eating makhana help in weight loss?
answer: Yes, Makhana is helpful in reducing weight. This is low calorie food. It also contains fiber in abundance. Both these things make a food helpful for weight loss.
Question: Can small children eat makhana?
answer: Yes, you can definitely eat it. Small children should be fed makhana with milk. This increases their bone density and also helps in physical and mental development. Even if the child's teeth are coming in, they still get relief.
Question: Does eating Makhana relieve fatigue?
answer: Yes, it helps a lot. The main reason for our fatigue is the free radicals present in the body. Makhana is rich in powerful antioxidants. Therefore, Makhana relieves fatigue by eliminating the oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
Question: Does eating makhana improve heart health?
answer: Yes, eating makhana improves heart health. It contains minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are beneficial for heart health. The anti-oxidants present in Makhana also protect the heart from damage.
Question: Does eating makhana improve digestive health?
answer: Yes, if Makhana is eaten in limited quantity then digestive problems can be cured. The fiber present in it makes digestion easier and also improves gut health. However, excessive consumption of makhana can cause problems like gas and inflammation.
Question: Does eating makhana strengthen bones?
answer: Yes, eating Makhana strengthens bones. Makhana is rich in calcium, which is very good for bone health. Protein, fiber, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B, and antioxidants are also found in makhana. All these elements are beneficial for bone health and bone density.
Question: Can eating Makhana cause any side effects?
answer: Yes, eating too much Makhana at one time can cause some health problems. Eating too much Makhana can cause problems like flatulence, gas, constipation, and allergies. If you have any disease related to stomach or kidney, then definitely consult a doctor before eating Makhana.
Question: Can one eat makhana if one has kidney disease?
answer: In case of any kidney disease, one should avoid eating Makhana. Makhana is rich in calcium and potassium. This may increase the workload on the kidneys. Therefore one should avoid eating Makhana or consult a doctor before doing so.
Question: Is it safe for diabetic people to eat makhana?
answer: Yes, Makhana is safe for diabetic people. Makhana has a low glycemic index. Therefore it does not spike blood sugar. Apart from this it is rich in fiber. Both these things are safe for diabetic people and are also beneficial.
Question: Whose people should not eat Makhana?
answer: These people should not eat Makhana:
Graphics Source: NavJivanIndia | VaskarAssets