Makhana for Diabetes: Is Makhana Good for Diabetes?


Makhana, which is also known as lotus seed in English, is very helpful in managing blood sugar level in diabetes. If you want makhanas to help manage your blood sugar level, you should start eating it in moderation. In this article we will tell you everything about this healthy snack called makhana. At the end of this article you will be able to understand how makhana can help you manage your diabetes.

Makhanas are obtained from a plant call Euryale Fox. Euryale Fox plant grows in the stagnant water of wetlands or ponds in Eastern Asia. Fox nuts and lotus seeds are the other names of makhanas. They have found an important place in Ayurveda and have been used in Chinese cuisine and medicine for three thousand years. In India too makhana has been used for various purposes. Indians use makhanas in religious ceremonies and fasting dishes. They also use makhanas in weight loss diets and to manage the blood glucose level. Makhanas have become a popular evening snack because they are believed to be quite low in calories. You can munch on a 50-gm serving of dry-roasted makhanas happily every day. 50 gm makhanas provide 180 calories. They contain no saturated fat or sodium at all. When we use no grease or oil in roasting the makhanas, they are called dry-roasted makhanas.

Makhana for Diabetes: Is Makhana Good for Diabetes?
Makhana for Diabetes: Is Makhana Good for Diabetes?

Makhana for Diabetes
Makhanas are considered to be rich in good carbohydrates. Makhanas help manage your blood sugar levels because they are low glycaemic foods. The glycaemic index of makhanas is much lower than foods like rice, bread, etc. The low sodium and high magnesium content of makhanas make them very useful for the patients of diabetes and obesity. Apart from high carbohydrates, makhanas also provide a lot of fibre and protein. If you eat makhanas in right quantity and right manner, they may help manage your blood sugar levels easily.

Makhana seeds can be eaten in three ways. You can eat them raw, roasted or ground. If you want to add makhana to soups, salads or other gravy dishes, you should soak them overnight in water. People use puffed seeds in kheer, puddings and dry roasted snacks. To prepare gluten-free, protein-rich rotis, you can add ground makhanas to soybean, bajra and jowar flours.

Here’s How You Can Use Makhana for Diabetes:
  • Try Dry Roasted Makhana: After putting your makhanas on a non-stick pan, roast them on a low flame until they are brown. Transfer the fox nuts in an air-tight jar or container once they are roasted. Remember to place the container in a dry place.
  • Try Makhanas Roasted With Ghee: You may add a tablespoon of ghee to your non-stick pan, before putting the fox nuts in it, if you don’t mind eating a bit of healthy fat. You should avoid adding too many artificial or salty flavorings and seasonings while roasting makhana but you may add a bit of salt or chaat masala.


If you are in search of other healthy foods for diabetes, we must tell you that your diet should include fresh fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, oats, etc. You may consider following a healthy dietchart. Don’t forget to engage in exercises or some physical activity.

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