Does roasting Makhana destroy its nutrients?Image Credit source: Getty Images
Makhana has become the favorite snack of Indians. This small white thing rich in nutrients provides many benefits to the body. But the question remains whether its elements are destroyed by frying it and eating it. Eating Makhana after frying it in desi ghee and adding salt is a different thing. By doing this it tastes quite tasty and you are also able to take better care of your health. But there is confusion among people on whether it should be fried in desi ghee or not. This is a thing that grows in water which is eaten during fasting, as a snack or as a healthy diet. It is prepared from lotus seeds and in many places it is also called Phool Makhana.
To prepare Makhana, lotus seeds are first dried and then roasted. It is quite light and hence easily digested. It is roasted thoroughly once during the entire process of cultivation. We are going to tell you whether it should be fried again after coming home or not. Learn from experts.
Ingredients of Makhana (per 100 grams)
calories 350370 kcal
Protein 910 grams
Carbohydrates 7577 grams
Fiber 78 grams
Fat 0.51 grams
Calcium 60 mg
Iron 1.4 mg
Magnesium 90 mg
potassium about 500 mg
phosphorus about 200 mg
Roasting Makhana destroys its elements or not?
Holistic dietitian and integrative therapeutic nutritionist Dr. Geetika Chopra says that it is a common myth that roasting makhana reduces or eliminates its nutrients. Experts say that it is completely safe to eat it after lightly roasting it and it does not destroy the nutrients of the Makhana. Makhana is already a low-calorie, high protein (plant based), magnesium and antioxidant rich snack. When you dry roast it or fry it lightly in a little ghee, both its digestibility and taste are improved. In this way its crispness increases which further enhances its taste.
When does the loss of nutrients occur?
Experts say that if you eat it at very high heat or after frying it too much, there may be some loss of nutrients. But this does not happen in normal roasting. Always roast lightly on low flame. It can be eaten by adding a little ghee, black salt and turmeric. Always avoid over-roasting or burning. Roasted Makhana is not unhealthy but a smart snacking option, just the way of cooking it should be right.
Benefits of eating Makhana
Weight Control- This is a low calorie and fiber rich food. Therefore, by eating it, the stomach remains full for a long time and one does not feel hungry again and again. In this way, it is very effective in weight management.
Beneficial for the heart- This superfood contains less sodium and more magnesium, hence it helps in keeping blood pressure balanced.
Beneficial for diabetics – One of its qualities is that it has a low glycemic index, hence consuming it does not increase blood sugar rapidly.
Beneficial for bones- Makhana contains calcium and phosphorus. Therefore they are good for our bones and teeth.
