Health benefits of makhana: Boost brain health, lower cholesterol, maintain blood sugar level

Foxnuts, or makhana, are emerging as a superfood due to their impressive nutritional profile and health benefits. (Image: Canva)

Foxnuts, or makhana, are emerging as a superfood due to their impressive nutritional profile and health benefits. Packed with high-quality protein, dietary fibre, essential vitamins, and key minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, foxnuts offer comprehensive support for overall health. Their low calorie and high fibre content make them an excellent choice for weight management, promoting satiety and reducing cravings. Antioxidants present in foxnuts combat oxidative stress, benefiting skin health and reducing signs of ageing. Additionally, their low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels, making them a suitable snack for diabetics.

Foxnuts also support heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and maintaining cardiovascular well-being. With their anti-inflammatory properties, they can help alleviate inflammation-related issues. Versatile and nutritious, foxnuts are a valuable addition to any diet, offering a range of benefits for different age groups and contributing to a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Here are ten amazing health benefits of foxnuts for all age groups, according to dietician Niharika Anand.

Rich in nutrients: Foxnuts are rich in essential nutrients, including protein, fibre, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, supporting overall health and well-being across different age groups.

Supports heart health: The antioxidants and fibre in foxnuts help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, reduce blood pressure, and support heart health, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases and promoting a healthy heart.

Improves digestion: High in dietary fibre, foxnuts aid digestion by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and ensuring a healthy digestive tract, which is beneficial for maintaining overall digestive health.

Helps with weight management: Low in calories but high in protein and fibre, foxnuts help keep you full longer, reducing overall calorie intake and supporting effective weight management and healthy weight maintenance.

Promotes healthy skin: The antioxidants in foxnuts combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing skin damage, which can help maintain youthful and healthy skin by combating signs of ageing and promoting skin vitality.

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Supports bone health: Rich in calcium and magnesium, foxnuts contribute to strong bones and teeth, helping to prevent bone disorders like osteoporosis and supporting overall skeletal health throughout life.

Boosts energy levels: Foxnuts provide a steady release of energy due to their protein and complex carbohydrate content, making them an excellent snack choice for sustained energy throughout the day and combating fatigue.

Regulates blood sugar levels: With a low glycaemic index, foxnuts help regulate blood sugar levels by preventing spikes and crashes, making them a suitable choice for managing diabetes and maintaining stable glucose levels.

Enhances brain function: The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in foxnuts support cognitive health and improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity, which can enhance overall brain function and cognitive performance.

Anti-inflammatory properties: Foxnuts contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms of inflammatory conditions and promoting overall health and comfort.