Are you fasting on Mahashivratri? Get your fill of nutrients with this makhana smoothie

Makhana or fox nuts make for a great snack, and are packed with nutrients too! Yes, did you know they are a nutritious source of resistant starch (RS) that will keep you satiated for a long time? There are several people who choose to fast on Mahashivratri, and if you are someone who finds it difficult to do this, because of hunger pangs every now and then, this recipe by celeb nutritionist Munmun Ganeriwal is for you!

This power-packed makhana smoothie has nuts, raisins, seeds, and milk. It is wholesome, high in nutrients, and even higher on taste, she shares in her Instagram post. So, without wasting any time, let’s get to the recipe.

makhana smoothieYou will love this recipe of makhane smoothie. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Here are the ingredients you need to make this makhana smoothie:

1 cup roasted makhana
2 tbsp roasted peanuts
2 tbsp almonds
1 glass nut milk
Honey
Raisins and mixed seeds

Method:

1. In a blender, take roasted makhana, peanuts, almonds, and nut milk.
2. Pour it into a glass.
3. Add a little honey to taste.
4. Add raisins and mixed seeds to garnish.

Why should you include makhana in your diet?

There are plenty of reasons, we say! Here they are:

1. They are rich in nutrients: These nuts contain all the nutrients that are essential for a well-rounded diet. They contain carbs, calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, so you know where you need to get your fill from!

2. They are high in antioxidants: Antioxidants are powerful substances that neutralize free radicals, and makhana is filled with them! Fox nuts contain gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin. As per research, antioxidants help to protect against chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

3. They may help stabilize blood sugar levels: Makhanas are said to help people manage their blood sugar levels better, although more research is needed to understand how and why they help.

 

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A post shared by ‘Yuktahaar’by Munmun Ganeriwal (@munmun.ganeriwal)

4. They may help with weight loss: If you are looking to shed some kilos, make sure to include makhana in your diet. Makhanas contain protein and fibre, both of which are known to keep you satiated for longer periods of time. The high amount of fibre is also believed to reduce belly fat, and exacerbate fat loss.

5. They may have anti-aging properties: Some studies also suggest the presence of certain compounds in makhana that may slow down aging. Yes, makhana contains several amino acids that are known for their anti-aging properties, including glutamine, cystine, arginine, and methionine. Isn’t this a big secret, ladies?