Latest news with #Makhana


Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Makhana may be healthy, but not for everyone: 5 types of people who should avoid it
Makhana commonly known as fox nuts or lotus seeds has emerged as a popular nutritious snack celebrated for its health benefits. Known for being low in calories and rich in dietary fiber, makhana is increasingly recognised as a superfood. These crunchy white seeds come from the aquatic plant Euryale Fox and have long been a staple in traditional diets across various cultures. Today, their impressive nutritional profile is gaining global appreciation. Packed with antioxidants and essential minerals, makhana supports heart health, aids digestion, and helps with weight management. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed roasted, in desserts, or as a healthy snack, making it a convenient choice for those seeking wholesome and beneficial food options. Health benefits of consuming Makhana Supports heart health Makhana's antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, factors that contribute to heart disease. Regular consumption may lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), thus promoting cardiovascular health and reducing risks related to atherosclerosis and hypertension. Aids weight management Being low in calories but high in fiber, makhana helps curb hunger pangs and promotes satiety, which can reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Thanh Pho Ho Chi Minh: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More Undo This satiating effect supports metabolic rate improvement and can aid in effective weight loss when included as part of a balanced diet. Helps regulate blood sugar levels Thanks to its low glycemic index, makhana causes a gradual rise in blood sugar, making it a suitable snack option for people managing diabetes. It can be consumed as roasted seeds between meals or incorporated in healthy desserts using natural sweeteners like dates or jaggery in moderation. Promotes digestive health The fiber content in makhana supports a healthy digestive system by facilitating regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It can enhance gut health and overall metabolism. Who should avoid eating makhana Despite its numerous health benefits, certain individuals need to be cautious about makhana intake due to specific health concerns according to and Individuals with kidney stone risks Makhana contains oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation. People with a history or predisposition to kidney stones should limit consumption to avoid increased risks, as oxalates may reduce calcium and magnesium absorption. Allergy-prone individuals Those sensitive to nuts and seeds may experience allergic reactions ranging from mild itching and hives to severe anaphylaxis. Avoid or introduce makhana cautiously if allergies exist. Individuals with digestive disorders People suffering from digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) might find high-fiber foods like makhana difficult to digest, potentially worsening symptoms like bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort. Individuals with gout or high uric acid levels Makhana contains moderate levels of purines, compounds that can increase uric acid in the body. For those prone to gout or hyperuricemia, limiting purine intake is recommended, including reducing makhana consumption. People on blood-thinning medications Due to its vitamin K content, which plays a role in blood clotting, excessive makhana intake might interfere with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin. Individuals on such medications should consult healthcare providers before regular consumption. Makhana: Nutritional profile Makhana is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a combination of flavonoids, polyphenols, proteins, carbohydrates, and essential minerals. Notably: Rich in antioxidants: The presence of flavonoids like kaempferol and various polyphenols provides potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Low in calories: Perfect for weight management, makhana offers a satisfying snack option without excess calorie intake. High in dietary fiber: Fiber content helps in promoting a feeling of fullness, supporting digestion, and aiding metabolism. Low glycemic index: This makes it an excellent food choice for blood sugar regulation. These properties collectively contribute to makhana's rising popularity as a heart-healthy and metabolism-friendly snack. How to add makhana into your diet Makhana is versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways: Roasted snack: Lightly roasted makhana with a pinch of salt and spices makes a crunchy, healthy snack. Desserts and puddings: When combined with natural sweeteners like jaggery or dates, makhana becomes a nutritious dessert option. As a topping: Sprinkling roasted makhana over salads or soups adds texture and nutritional value. In curries and stir-fries: It can be added to various dishes for an extra boost of nutrients and crunch. Pro Tip: For best results, it is advisable to lightly chop makhana before roasting. This step helps remove any unwanted debris or insects and ensures even roasting. Chopped makhana also tends to absorb flavors better, resulting in a crispier, tastier snack. While makhana (fox nuts) offers many potential health benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with specific medical conditions such as kidney stones, gout, certain digestive disorders, or nut/seed allergies should exercise caution. Excessive consumption may also affect blood sugar levels and interfere with blood-thinning medications. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have existing health concerns. Also Read | Chewing saunf or drinking saunf water: Which is the healthier optio

Time of India
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Pakistan Flood Fury: Watch Moment Journalist Gets Washed Away While Reporting In Rawalpindi
'Took Op Sindoor Resolve In Bihar, World Saw Its Success': PM Modi Bihar Rally Speech Highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a powerful connection between the successful Operation Sindoor and the soil of Bihar. "The resolve of Operation Sindoor was taken from Bihar, and now, the whole world has seen its success," said PM Modi. Attacking the RJD-Congress alliance, Modi slammed past regimes for developmental neglect and corruption, claiming their era sanctioned just ₹2 lakh crore. In contrast, the BJP-led NDA has delivered transformational growth across housing, women empowerment, SHGs, and market access for local produce like Makhana. PM Modi emphasized the rise of Bihar's women: 'Over 3.5 crore women got bank accounts. More than 20 Lakhpati Didis now exist in Bihar.' He vowed to connect the state's resources with global markets, highlighting a new era of self-reliant progress.#pmmodi #narendramodi #modispeech #modibiharspeech #operationsindoor #modiinmotihari #biharrally #pmmodispeech #bihardevelopment #lakhpatididi #toi #toibharat #bharat #trending #breakingnews #indianews 1.5K views | 1 hour ago

Time of India
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Took Op Sindoor Resolve In Bihar, World Saw Its Success': PM Modi Bihar Rally Speech Highlights
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a powerful connection between the successful Operation Sindoor and the soil of Bihar. "The resolve of Operation Sindoor was taken from Bihar, and now, the whole world has seen its success," said PM Modi. Attacking the RJD-Congress alliance, Modi slammed past regimes for developmental neglect and corruption, claiming their era sanctioned just ₹2 lakh crore. In contrast, the BJP-led NDA has delivered transformational growth across housing, women empowerment, SHGs, and market access for local produce like Makhana. PM Modi emphasized the rise of Bihar's women: 'Over 3.5 crore women got bank accounts. More than 20 Lakhpati Didis now exist in Bihar.' He vowed to connect the state's resources with global markets, highlighting a new era of self-reliant progress.#pmmodi #narendramodi #modispeech #modibiharspeech #operationsindoor #modiinmotihari #biharrally #pmmodispeech #bihardevelopment #lakhpatididi #toi #toibharat #bharat #trending #breakingnews #indianews Read More


News18
22-05-2025
- Business
- News18
Dry Fruit Prices Soar As India-Pakistan Rift Chokes Asia's Largest Spice Hub In Delhi
Last Updated: With India-Pakistan borders shut and consignments stranded en route, Khari Baoli, Asia's largest dry fruit market in Delhi, reels under a supply crunch and prices soaring high. The bustling lanes of Delhi's Khari Baoli, once echoing with the sound of buyers bargaining over almonds and apricots, now lie eerily quiet. Known as Asia's largest spice market, this historic trading hub in Old Delhi has been brought to a virtual standstill by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. With borders shut and consignments stranded en route, the heart of India's dry fruit trade is reeling under a severe supply crunch, sending prices soaring and driving customers away. 'We've never seen the market this lifeless," said Ayan, a dry fruit trader who has been operating in Khari Baoli for over a decade. Since tensions flared between India and Pakistan, borders have remained closed and supply has been completely choked. The dry fruits we receive are of substandard quality, he said. Ayan's account paints a grim picture of the market's condition: prices have surged by Rs 300 to Rs 400 per kg across the board, with some premium varieties touching unprecedented highs. Makhana, for instance, now sells for a staggering Rs 1,800 per kg, nearly double its usual rate. 'Earlier, people would come and buy half a kg, sometimes even more. Now, there's barely anyone. The footfall is close to zero," Ayan added. Pawanjit Singh, another trader, expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding the reopening of trade routes. We are in constant touch with suppliers across the country. Everyone is waiting. If the border doesn't reopen in the next couple of weeks, we might be staring at a prolonged crisis. Prices are not expected to normalise for at least two more months, he stated. The ripple effect of the supply disruption has caused a 20% to 40% hike in dry fruit prices in just three weeks. Manoj Kumar, another veteran trader, revealed the broader logistical chaos that has engulfed the trade. 'Many of our consignments are stuck at the borders. Some were turned back mid-route. With goods not arriving and no clarity on timelines, we're losing customers and money. There's a shortage in every category," he said. Phoolwant, a wholesaler, highlighted the financial losses already incurred, saying that payments had been made in advance to the suppliers and now, the goods are stuck. 'We have no way to recover the money. There's no business happening, just losses mounting by the day," he said. Adding to the crisis is the sudden disappearance of dates from the market. 'You can't find dates anywhere," said Pulvinder, a dry fruit merchant, adding that dates have entirely vanished from the shelves. And if someone does have them, they're selling them at cutthroat prices, he said. The situation at Khari Baoli reflects a larger economic vulnerability where trade disruptions, rooted in geopolitical conflict, rapidly trickle down to consumer markets. First Published: May 22, 2025, 15:16 IST


Mint
03-05-2025
- Health
- Mint
UNFORGETTABLE FESTIVALS
The festival of lights, Diwali, is celebrated with glowing diyas, lanterns, and spectacular fireworks, symbolising the victory of light over darkness. Credit : PEXELS Page 2 Makhana, also called Lotus seeds or fox nuts, has gained global popularity for its amazing health benefits. Its cultivation has its roots in Bihar's Madhubani area, which remains the central hub for Makhana production. Credit : PINTEREST Page 3 Keeping your skin clean is essential. Use a gentle cleanser morning and evening to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores and make them look bigger. Credit : PINTEREST Page 4