You’re expecting your first child, and you want to give your baby the best start in life, so you make sure that you have the very best prenatal vitamins and minerals out there. But then, one day, you hear about roasted makhana as part of your prenatal diet – and aren’t sure if this is just another fad you’re supposed to buy into or if this whole prenatal nutrition thing goes further than that…
What is roasted makhana?
Roasted makhana is dried seeds of Euryale Ferox or lotus or gorgon nuts, a floating aquatic plant that grows in freshwater lakes and ponds in South East Asia. The nutritional value of makhana seeds is quite similar to nuts, but since they contain almost no fat, makhana can be consumed by people suffering from heart diseases or obesity. Roasted makhanas are not fried, so you get all the goodness of raw makhana.
Why should makhana be a part of the pregnancy diet?
- Controlling blood pressure – High blood pressure can have severe implications for the health of pregnant mothers and babies. For women with tendencies of high blood pressure, makhana in their regular diets can help to improve blood flow. Low sodium, high potassium and high manganese content in makhana are suitable for smooth blood flow and lower blood pressure.
- Low GI food – Pregnant women suffering from the risk of high blood sugar can benefit from eating makhana daily as it is low in Glycemic Index (GI). Low calories and micronutrient-rich makhana help to manage blood sugar.
- High-quality plant-based protein – Makhana is also a rich source of high-quality protein that helps develop and grow a mother’s body and foetus. It helps to keep both the mother and the child healthy in the long run.
- Body fitness and energy – Fatigue is a common problem during and after pregnancy. To overcome body fatigue, a mother needs regular replenishment of vital nutrients and minerals like zinc, iron, potassium, manganese. Makhana can be a good source of these micronutrients with nearly zero fat content. It keeps the body fit and energetic.
- Zero chance of weight gain – During pregnancy gaining weight is normal, but being overweight is not desirable. Raw and roasted makhanas are a low glycemic index, contain many vital and essential nutrients and have little fat. So, there is no chance of gaining weight.
- High dietary fibre – Makhana or Foxnut is an excellent source of dietary fibre and is suitable for our digestive system. The majority suffer from digestion problems and constipation during pregnancy. Makhana can help to overcome the problem.
- Improve sleep quality – Lack of sufficient sleep is a common problem faced during pregnancy, and the main reasons are hormonal changes, excess stress, acid reflux after a meal. Makhana contains isoquinoline alkaloids which have a calming effect and can induce sound sleep. Antioxidants and other vitamins regulate the body’s function.
- Relief to muscle cramps and pains – An increase in body weight and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause muscle cramps and muscle pain. Vitamin B complex and zinc in makhana helps to relieve these pains and discomforts. It is equally beneficial for lactating mothers.
Indian Foxnut is the top Phool makhana producer and exporter in India. Their flavoured roasted makhanas are available in different packs and exciting tastes like butter tomato, cream & onion, pudina, tikka masala, Peri Peri and many more. Check https://indianfoxnut.com/ for roasted makhana price and order the best quality flavoured roasted makhana online.