Makhana and Pregnancy- Best Friends Forever
Pregnancy is a period filled with great happiness, joy, and expectations. But beyond the happy vibes, this period also comes with huge responsibilities wherein it is important to take care of the health of both the mother and baby. Thus, it becomes essential that the expecting mothers adopt a healthy and nutritional diet for the proper growth and development of the baby.
In such a case, what could be better than having makhanas that offer a plethora of nutritional benefits? Makhanas, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, are essential to have during the pregnancy phase and also aid in the overall wellbeing of expecting mothers and their babies.
Power-packed with vital nutrients, minerals, fiber, proteins, and antioxidants, Makhana is a powerful food that is low in fat and calories and adds nutritional value to a mother's diet.
Want to know more about how makhanas can add nutritional benefits to your food and how they can be incorporated as healthy snacks? We will also tell you about different recipes that you can try with makhanas.
Read on to find out more about nutritionally rich recipes that can unlock various health benefits for both expectant mothers and their babies:
Makhana Recipes to Cherish
Makhanas add nourishment to your plate and also aid in the wellbeing of the expectant mothers during pregnancy. So here are a few recipes that you can try to harness the power of this super food:
Makhana Trail Mix
Makhana Trail mix is an energy-boosting and nutritious dish that is power-packed with seeds, dried fruits, and nuts. So, for all those days when you are in a hush-hush to reach the office and do not have enough time to have your breakfast, makhana trail mix is a perfect on-the-go snack.
Makhana curry
Makhana curry is one of the most famous and widely used fox nut variants, and it is tasty and healthy at the same time. Cooked in a creamy, relishing, and flavorful curry and mixed with various vegetables and lentils, makhana curry is surely going to make you fall for it. The makhanas that stay soaked in the curry absorb the spices and flavors of the curry and provide a distinct texture and taste.
Makhana energy balls
Makhana energy balls are easy to prepare. All you need are seeds, nuts, dry fruits, dates, and butter or honey, which can bind the content. You can mix everything together and transform them into small balls which are tasty to eat and also provide a quick energy boost.
Makhana porridge
Makhana porridge can be prepared by churning Makhana in a mixer into powder and adding milk to it. As an alternative, you can also use other sources of plant-based milk. Further, you can add dates, honey, and other artificial sweeteners of your choice to prepare a quick breakfast meal.
Makhana smoothie
Makhana smoothies are also easy to make and can be prepared within minutes. You can take some nuts, fruits, Makhana, and yogurt and blend it all together with a liquid of your choice to prepare a makhana smoothie. It is a very refreshing drink and can also be used as an alternative for your meals due to the energy quotient it carries.
Makhana intake quantity on a regular basis
While there is no such hard and fast rule concerning the amount of Makhana consumed during the pregnancy period, it is advised that you consume Makhana in moderation.
It will help maintain a balanced diet, and when replaced as a meal option, this healthy snack will bless you with umpteen nutritional benefits. Also, it is advised that you consult a doctor or a dietician to find out more about your nutritional requirements and diet.
Is Makhana safe to eat during pregnancy?
Generally there is no such information about Makhana being unsafe to eat during pregnancy. However, it should always be consumed in moderation. It is best that you consult a doctor or a dietician to seek advice on your dietary requirements that align with your diet limitations, pregnancy complications, and health conditions.
Also, always eat fresh makhanas that do not have any kind of contaminants and are properly stored. If by any chance you find issues in the quality and safety of the Makhanas that you are using, you can consider changing the brand or contacting the manufacturer to seek information about the product. You can explore different ways to integrate Makhana into your meals and snacks and find more tasty ways to add essential nourishment to your food for yourself and your baby. Feel free to indulge in its nutritious benefits while you embark on your pregnancy journey.
Makhana has been a good source of nutrients. So, savor the adventure of motherhood by adding the delightful inclusion of Makhana to your meals!
FAQs
Q1. What is Makhana?
A1. Makhana, also commonly known as fox nuts, is basically the seed of lotus flowers that is commonly found in the Asian region.
Q2. What makes Makhanas beneficial for pregnant women?
A2. There are numerous benefits of consuming Makhana for pregnant women owing to its nutritional composition. From regulating blood pressure levels, promoting healthy weight gain, and supporting fetal development, makhanas also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. It enhances breast milk production and also fights morning sickness and nausea.
Conclusion
There are a plethora of benefits to consuming makhanas during pregnancy, and bestows a positive impact on the health of the mother and baby. Right from supporting a healthy pregnancy to enhancing breast milk production and energy levels, Makhanas is an incredible food option that aids in fetal development. It is rich in proteins and nutrients and is a delicious snack to eat.
Whether you prefer having Makhana as a standalone snack or wish to add it to your salads, breakfast items, desserts, or curry, there are countless ways you can enjoy Makhana by adding it to your pregnancy diet. We hope you will surely try out the recipes mentioned above to snack on tasty makhanas while making the most out of the nutritional advantage that these lotus seeds offer.
