The edible kernels of the lotus plant are called lotus seeds. Lotus seeds, roots, and blooms have long been valued in both Chinese and Japanese cultures. Lotus is one of the most popular aquatic plants that you can find in the Asian parts of the world. While the flower that grows on the plant is used for excellent decorative purposes, the lotus seeds have been used extensively as a superfood for centuries now.
China happens to be the largest producer of lotus seeds in the world and these seeds are used widely in the food and medicine industries. The largest consumers of these seeds include south-east Asian countries which include Indonesia, Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and of course, India. A common name for lotus seeds is makhana. Indian food makes extensive use of them. They can be eaten roasted with a dash of seasoning.
Health benefits of lotus seeds
8. Rich in Protein
The protein content of lotus seeds is extremely high. Due to the fact that a handful can give you enough energy to last the entire day, they play a significant role in the fasting diet. The majority of snacks are either fried in deep fat or heavily processed. A bowl of lotus seeds will satisfy your hunger while limiting your calorie intake.
7. Good for Diabetics
Because they contain healthy fat and low saturated fat, they make excellent snack foods for people with diabetes and heart disease. Makhanas are a fantastic diet for losing weight because of these qualities. They are low in sodium and high in magnesium and potassium. Due to this, lotus seeds are a great snack for people who are controlling their weight. Excellent detoxifying agents are lotus seeds.
They support the body’s natural detoxification processes. They support infertile women, help with premature ejaculation, and enhance the quality of semen.
6. Controls High Blood Pressure
For people with high blood pressure, a combination of high potassium and low sodium works well. While sodium seeks to raise blood pressure, potassium lowers it. Therefore, those who have high blood pressure can have a lotus seed as a snack without worrying about an increase in their blood pressure.
5. Healthy for teeth and bones
Lotus seeds also have a lot of calcium in addition to magnesium, potassium, and sodium. They, therefore, fall into the group of foods that are healthy for both the teeth and the bones.
4. Strengthens kidney
Lotus seeds have astringent qualities by nature, thus persons with weak kidneys can readily eat Makhana as a snack.
3. Effects of Anti-Aging
The enzymes found in lotus seeds are claimed to slow down ageing. The enzyme is known as L-isoaspartyl, methyltransferase which aids in the preservation and repair of harmed proteins and increases the body’s collagen production. In order to slow down the ageing process of the skin and lessen the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines, powdered lotus seeds are now being used in a variety of cosmetic products.
2. Protects Heart Health
Lotus seeds are rich in magnesium. Your body may be more vulnerable to heart attacks if you have low magnesium levels. The substance of lotus seeds is so excellent that it significantly improves heart health.
1. Helps in Digestion
Lotus seeds aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system because they are high in fibre. It lowers impulsive cravings and regulates appetite to quicken weight reduction. Additionally, lotus seeds purify the liver and kidneys, removing dietary wastes from the body and limiting their buildup, which promotes gut health.
How to consume makhana or lotus seeds
A daily intake of 3 to 6 grams of powdered lotus seed extract, taken in short, evenly spaced dosages after meals, is advised. You can consume it along with a glass of warm milk or water and some honey. In fact, lotus seeds are a very nutrient-dense diet, containing essential elements like proteins, fibres, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They provide a variety of health benefits for people, including bettering sleep patterns, encouraging weight loss, managing diabetes symptoms etc and consuming more than the required portions can be hazardous too!
