MAKHANA AS A LOW-GLYCEMIC FUNCTIONAL FOOD: ITS ROLE AS A SUPERFOOD

Abstract
Makhana (Euryale ferox), commonly known as fox nut or lotus seed, is an underutilized aquatic crop widely consumed in India and other Asian countries. Traditionally valued for its medicinal and dietary properties, makhana has recently gained global recognition as a low-glycemic functional food and superfood. Its favorable macronutrient profile, low fat content, rich mineral composition, and presence of bioactive compounds make it particularly suitable for individuals with diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic syndrome. Makhana or gorgon nut is an important non-cereal food from aquatic resources. People now a day’s preferred to protein rich food in their eating habit for sound health as compared to carbohydrate-rich products.

Keywords: Makhana, Euryale ferox, low glycemic index, functional food, superfood, nutrition, diabetes.

1. INTRODUCTION: Rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and changing dietary patterns have led to a significant increase in non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Diet plays a central role in both prevention and management of these conditions. In this context, low-glycemic index (GI) foods and functional foods are gaining increasing attention. Makhana (Euryale ferox) is an aquatic seed traditionally consumed in India, especially in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Eastern India. Historically used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, makhana is now recognized for its nutrient density, low glycemic response, and functional health benefits. Despite its long history of consumption, makhana remains underexploited in scientific literature and food systems compared to other cereal and nut products. It generally produces edible nut and it is superb medicinal plant used in ancient medicine in India and China 3000 years ago. The seeds of fox nut are used in ayurvedic preparations. It contains 11.16% protein and 75.04% carbohydrates. It strengthens the heart and is very useful in anemia. Makhana is an important ingredient which is used to strengthen spleen and kidneys. It contains low sodium and high potassium which reduces Blood Pressure and since it contains a very low amount of monosaturated fat, which prevents to increase blood sugar level. Besides, B.P and diabetes also help to control diseases like neuralgia, incontinence, chronic diarrhea and arthritis. Euryale ferox seeds are a rich source of macronutrient like Ca and Mg and also many micro-nutrients. It is nutritious and easily digested [5]. Antioxidant activity of raw seed was maximum than that of popped ones, which was due to the outcome of processing at high temperature. Popped makhana is a well-known product in Mithilanchal of Bihar. Since ancient times, the people of the Mithila region using makhana for various domestic consumable products like popped, halwa and kheer. In Kashmir fruits are edible. The seeds are consumed in raw or roasted forms as well as flour of dried seeds was used as nutritious bread Makhana contains unique glycosides combinations which are helpful for the element of cardiovascular diseases. Several studies found that foxnut has physical and hygroscopic characteristics that make it perfect for use in newborn formula. (Bana et al., 2015).

Read entire article: Me & My Earth