Benefits of Makhana And Its Side Effects

Makhana is known by many names. Lotus Seeds, Fox Nut, Euryale Ferox, Gorgon nut etc. These seeds are basically from the plant that falls in the Nelumbo genus. These seeds are of great value in the Asian medicine and cuisine. These seeds are commonly shelled, dried and then sold in the market. These lotus seeds are found commercially and in brown peel or white categories. The brown peel lotus seed is reaped once the head of the kernel of lotus is nearly or fully ripe, however, the white kind of lotus seed is reaped when the kernel head is fully green but has fully developed seeds. The seeds and the skin of the white lotus seed are always removed. The brown peel Lotus seeds are brownish in color as the fully developed seeds have adhered to the skin making it gross brown. These are very hard and can only be separated by splitting the seeds in half.

Lotus seeds are low in cholesterol, saturated fat and sodium. They are an extremely good source of manganese, potassium, magnesium, thiamin, protein and phosphorus. 100 grams of lotus seed will give you 350 calories, which means about 65 grams of carbs, 18 grams protein, and 1.9 to 2.5 grams of fat. The remaining is made up of water, potassium, sodium, phosphorus and calcium. These are high in fiber, which helps maintaining the excretory tract in proper order. It helps to eliminate all the spleen from the body and keeps it clean from the unnecessary cholesterol, therefore, maintaining the body’s cholesterol level. The potassium content is a great advantage for heart as it reduces the risk of heat stroke and hypertension. It is helpful in flushing out excess water and sodium from the body. It is of a great help in case there are muscle contractions, which can lead to cramps. The thiamine content in lotus seeds are helpful in sustaining the healthy cognitive functions of the nerves. Lotus seed intake helps in the generation of Acetylcholine which is required for the purpose of neurotransmission.

Apart from the nutritional health benefits provided by the lotus seed there are other uses as well. It has been used as an inducing agent in cosmetic products so that the product can promote anti-aging. Additionally, lotus seeds are a common snacking item as it is low in carbohydrates, fat and sugar, which mean binging on it between the meal times, will surely not promote weight gain. You can add honey, salt, butter or any flavor of your choice. Also, it is in demand due to its excellent content of nutrients and phytonutrients. It is extensively exported from China to the world. It compensates the loss of primary nutrients required for functioning of your body. So you can snack on it freely as there is nothing you can lose. Makhana is an important constituent of an incredible curry recipe made with the stems of lotus flower. Other popular dishes include ‘Makhane ki kheer’ which is prepared in the ‘Mithila culture’ which belongs to the state of Bihar in India.

Lotus seeds have to be consumed in moderation as the excessive consumption may lead to side effects for some people. Some of the side effects that have come to light are allergies, gastrointestinal issues, spike in insulin levels etc. There could be lotus seed allergies possible in many people, so if you feel uneasy or any other symptom, you can consult your physician and discontinue its usage for a while. People suffering from diabetes should consult their dietician and physician before consuming Lotus seed. It tends to bring down the blood sugar levels. Excessive consumption of lotus seed may lead to constipation, flatulence and bloating. So in case you are already constipated, do not consume it under any circumstances. If the patients are already on treatment, they should consult their physician before consuming lotus seeds as they are anti-arrhythmic.

Lotus seeds have to be consumed in moderation as the excessive consumption may lead to side effects for some people. Some of the side effects that have come to light are allergies, gastrointestinal issues, spike in insulin levels etc. There could be lotus seed allergies possible in many people, so if you feel uneasy or any other symptom, you can consult your physician and discontinue its usage for a while. People suffering from diabetes should consult their dietician and physician before consuming Lotus seed. It tends to bring down the blood sugar levels. Excessive consumption of lotus seed may lead to constipation, flatulence and bloating. So in case you are already constipated, do not consume it under any circumstances. If the patients are already on treatment, they should consult their physician before consuming lotus seeds as they are anti-arrhythmic.