Is it Safe to eat Makhana during Pregnancy?

Also known as gorgon nut, fox seed, or lotus seeds, makhana is one of the perfect snacks to satisfy those hunger pangs. These seeds are fluffy and crunchy and are usually tasteless. A few roasted makhana seeds make for a guilt-free snacking option. However, is it safe to eat makhana during pregnancy?

Although it is considered very beneficial according to Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, there could be some side effects of eating makhana during pregnancy and you should take these into consideration before having them.

What are the Benefits of Makhanas?

The nutritional value of Makhana is very high which makes it one of the most highly recommended snacks. These seeds are completely free from any gluten and are rich in fiber, aiding digestion. It is low in saturated fats, sodium, and cholesterol, thereby making it a very beneficial snack.

Besides carbohydrates, makhana is also rich in proteins and several vitamins and minerals. This includes Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Niacin, Iron, Potassium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, Copper, and Folates. As a result, there are several health benefits as mentioned below:

Makhana is low in cholesterol and saturated fats. Yet, it keeps you full, aiding weight loss effectively.

Read Also: Benefits Of Watermelon Seeds During Pregnancy

• It is rich in enzymes that have anti-aging and healing properties.
• Being high in magnesium and potassium, makhana also helps regulate blood pressure.
• The presence of essential minerals like phosphorous and iron also makes it effective in improving the overall metabolism of the body.
• The mild sedative property of makhana makes it a very highly recommended snack for people who suffer from insomnia.
• It is the best diabetic snack because it is low in fat and high in fiber.
• Makhana can improve fertility by increasing sperm count in men and making the lining of the uterus stronger in women.
• Nutrients like calcium that are present in abundance in makhana help improve bone strength. That is why lotus seeds are recommended for people with arthritis and other conditions related to the bones.
• Nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals in makhana have several anti-aging properties. They reduce wrinkles, dark spots and any inflammation on the skin as well.

Is It Safe To Eat Makhana During Pregnancy?

The nutritional value actually provides several benefits when you eat makhana during pregnancy. One of the best health benefits of including this in your pregnancy diet is a better sleep pattern during pregnancy. These seeds contain certain alkaloids that improve the function of the intestines, reducing issues like diarrhea that are common during pregnancy.

Read Also: Health Diet During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is very common to have dry skin. This can be prevented by consuming lotus seeds as they have several hydration properties that keep your skin supple and moisturized from within. Drinking tea made from makhana seeds locks in the moisture in the skin and even prevents oxidative damage.

In addition to the above, makhana is also useful in regulating blood pressure during pregnancy. They contain flavonoids and components like “isoquinoline” which helps dilate blood vessels, allowing better circulation. Being a rich source of protein, the benefits of eating makhana include better brain and nervous system development in the fetus.

However, there are some side effects of makhana during pregnancy. This can be managed by controlling the portion of makhana that you consume when you are pregnant.

How Much Makhana To Eat During Pregnancy?

In order to enjoy the benefits of Makhana during pregnancy, it is very important to ensure that you eat the right amount. You must not eat more than 2-3 handfuls of makhana during pregnancy to prevent the side effects.

Makhana can be roasted and consumed like popcorn. You can also add seasoning to make it tastier. In addition to this, makhana is used to make a type of porridge or the sweet dish that is perfect for those pregnancy cravings.

Side Effects of Makhana

As mentioned before, there could be some side effects of makhana during pregnancy as well. If you notice any uneasiness after eating these seeds, it is best that you consult your doctor immediately. The common side effects of eating makhana are as follows:

• It can lead to bloating or gas. Since makhana is also rich in fiber, eating too much can lead to constipation which is already a common issue during pregnancy.
• Makhana can reduce blood sugar levels drastically. So if you have any issues related to blood sugar such as diabetes already during your pregnancy, it is best that you avoid including it in your diet.
• Some women could also be allergic to these seeds. If you notice any discomfort or see rashes or redness on your skin after eating makhana, make sure that you check with your doctor immediately.

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