Lotus seeds are a low-calorie food commonly used for medicinal purposes in Asia. Since they are rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, their intake is highly recommended for nursing moms. However, you may wonder if it is safe to eat lotus seeds during pregnancy. Read on as we give you the answer in this post. Lotus seeds are often confused with popped seeds from the prickly water lily plant, also known as fox nut or makhana. The confusion happens because both the seeds look alike and have almost identical nutritional profiles. Besides, both are tasteless and fluffy and make a healthy snack option for people across ages. Keep scrolling as we tell you all you need to know about lotus seeds and their benefits and side effects during pregnancy.
Is It Safe To Eat Makhana (Fox Nut) During Pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat fox nuts, as they have a high nutritional value. They are rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, B vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients are especially good for expectant moms who are at higher risk of hypertension and gestational diabetes, and for fetal development. However, you should eat them in moderation to stay healthy and avoid complications. Keep reading to learn more about the nutritional value of these seeds.
Nutritional value of makhana (Lotus seeds)
According to the USDA, the nutrition present in 100g of raw Lotus seeds is as follows (1): g=grams; mg=milligrams; mcg=micrograms; IU=international unit
Benefits Of Eating Makhana (Lotus Seeds) During Pregnancy
Here are the benefits of lotus seeds during pregnancy:
How To Eat Makhana During Pregnancy?
You may prefer eating them both raw and cooked. Here is how you can enjoy the tasty makhana in your diet.
Make delicious popcorn with the flavor of your choice by adding salt, butter or honey
Stir fry with some oil or ghee and sprinkle spices for a yummy snack
Also, use in sweet dishes such as rice porridge
How Much Makhana Can Be Eaten In A Day?
You may take about two to three handfuls of lotus seeds to yield the benefits mentioned earlier. Makhana could also cause certain side effects in a few pregnant women.
What Could Be The Side Effects Of Eating Makhana During Pregnancy?
Your doctor may have a few valid reasons when he or she tells you not to include fox nuts in your diet.
Overconsumption of the seeds could lead to flatulence, constipation and bloating.
They tend to reduce blood sugar levels. If you already have diabetes, you should be careful of not eating them in excess.
Some people may have allergies to seeds. In case you feel uneasy upon their consumption, stop eating them and consult your doctor.
Keep reading for a few Makhana (lotus seeds) recipes you might want to try during pregnancy.
Pregnancy-Friendly Makhana Recipes
1. Phool makhana curry (lotus seeds gravy)
You will need:
1 cup makhana ½ cup peas 1 onion 1 cup tomato puree 2tsp red chili powder 1tbsp coriander powder 1/2tsp turmeric powder 1tsp spice blend (garam masala) 1/4tsp cumin seeds 2tbsp oil Salt for taste Coriander leaves for garnish
For paste:
1 large onion 5 garlic cloves 1 small piece of ginger 1tsp poppy seeds 5 cashew nuts 1tsp oil
How to make: For making the paste: For making curry:
2. Atta gond makhana laddoo
You will need:
½ cup makhana (fried and blended) 1/4 cup edible gum, Gond (fried and blended) 2 cups wheat flour ½ cup sugar powder 1 cup ghee 2tbsp almonds 2tbsp cashew nuts ½ cup jaggery 1tbsp pista
How to make:
3. Makhana kheer
You will need:
3 cups makhana 6 cups milk 5 almonds (chopped) 8-10 raisins 1/2 cup grated coconut 1/2tsp cardamom powder ½ tin sweetened condensed milk 1/2tsp pure ghee
How to make:
Will Makhana Help In Recovery After Miscarriage?
Lotus seeds will tone the spleen and kidneys, building up the energy or Qi and blood that helps in stopping the bleeding associated with miscarriage. If you have a history of miscarriage, you might consider taking makhana as they help restore energy within the body (7).
