With a myriad of health benefits and endorsement by one of the most famous mums in India, makhaana has made a huge comeback in Indian kitchens.
When celebrities endorse a product, it looks more like a marketing gimmick. But it seems new mum Kareena Kapoor Khan is setting the right precedence. She is guiding fellow mums in the correct direction.
In a recent interview, she sat down with dietician Rujuta Diwekar and shared her weight loss process. The actor revealed that apart from small meals in short intervals, she also munches on makhaana (fox nuts), a popular North Indian snack.
As per usual, her endorsement of this age-old snack elevated it to a fad. Women across the country started munching on makhaanas. Which, of course, turned out to a great fad.
That's because makhaanas are actually extremely healthy and versatile. You can either consume them raw or fry them in ghee with some rock salt and eat them as cooked snacks. You can even turn makhaana into a subzi.
7 health benefits of makhaana
However, apart from being versatile in the way it is cooked and consumed, makhaana is also versatile in its health benefits. It is often considered to be in the top rung and comes close to almonds and nuts in its richness and health benefits.
So let's take a look at some of the unknown benefits of makhaana.
1. Anti-ageing properties
Makhaana or fox nuts are rich in antioxidants and fibre. Both of these naturally detox and cleanse the body off free radicals and oxidants, giving your skin a natural glow from within.
In addition, makhaana also contains flavonoids called kaempferol. They can reverse the ageing process. So eating makhaana is almost as though you are pushing your wrinkles back.
2. Keeps the digestive system on track
Since makhaana is rich in fibre, it helps to maintain smooth bowel movements. They also regulate the blood flow in the body and keep the kidneys healthy.
So not only do you not suffer from constipation, but your urinary tract also remains healthy and functions properly.
3. Helps to lose weight easily
These healthy and delicious nuts are gluten and fat-free and keep you feeling full for a longer time. Thus, automatically reducing additional calorific intake by your body.
They are therefore, a great addition to your snack time. Especially, during the 4-6 pm snack breaks (if you take, which you must). They will keep you feeling full and this will encourage you to keep your dinner light and simple.
4. Keeps blood pressure and diabetes under control
Most people who suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes are advised to put makhaana in their diet chart. That's because makhaana is low in saturate fat and sodium.
But due to their high levels of potassium and magnesium and low glycemic index, they are able to maintain normal blood pressure and reduce sugar levels in the blood.
5. Works to increase fertility
Not only are makhaanas or fox nuts great aphrodisiacs, but they also help in boosting fertility. These nuts are hydrating in nature and therefore, keep internal organs well moisturised.
Ayurvedic and Unani medicine believe the makhaana to work wonders on the quality of semen as well.
6. Relieves arthritis pain
Fox nuts or makhaana are also rich in proteins and calcium, making them an ideal snack for growing kids and women. It strengthens the bones and hair and reduces the risk of fractures.
It also builds bone density and relieves pain in case of arthritis.
7. Makes your heart stronger
Makhaana or fox nuts release a substance called glucosides into the body. These are dietary flavonoids and vital phytochemicals and decrease blood glucose in the body.
They also reduce cholesterol in the body and since they low on mono-unsaturated fats, they help in the treatment of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injuries.
As mentioned, you can either consume makhaana raw or use them in subzi or prepare snacks the way you prefer. This versatile nut provides a lot of options and benefits. No wonder, Kareena Kapoor Khan swears by it.
Also read: Kareena Kapoor Khan is suffering from THIS common post pregnancy skin issue