13 Reasons Why Makhana is Better Than Popcorn
This is for the snack lovers who always crave crunch; then Makhana is the snack that you should include as your go-to snack. Makhana is an ancient Indian superfood that has been part of the diet of the people of India. Makhana is often compared to popcorn, another snack available in the market. People might find them similar because of their texture and colour, but makhana has to offer more than popcorn, both at terms of crunch and in nutritional values. In the era of looking for scientific proofs and also at the nutritional values of products, Makhana has more to offer than the other options available for snacks. Let dive into the battel Makhana vs Popcorn
Here are 13 science-backed reasons why makhana edges out popcorn on every healthy count:
1. Lower in Calories
Makhana has fewer calories than popcorn. It has 30-35% fewer calories than popcorn. If you are looking forward to cutting weight, and are a gym freak, then it is the best option to resolve as a munching option.
| 100g Serving | Calories |
| Makhana | 347-360 |
| Popcorn | 525-540 |
2. More Protein
On average, makhana offers about 50 to 60% more protein than Popcorn. High protein content in makhana promotes satiety (kills hunger) and also repairs muscle. People who are health conscious and want ot keep their body weight in check, Makhana has more to offer than Popcorn.
3. Lower in Fat
Makhana has 67% less fat than popcorn, and is almost free of harmful saturated fats, which are often found in processed popcorn.
4. Gluten-Free and Hypoallergenic
Makhana is beneficial for those with an autoimmune disorder where gluten damages the small intestine; makhana is naturally gluten-free and does not cause allergies, making it a safer munch for everyone in the family.
5. Lower Sodium
Regulating your sodium intake is key to one’s heart health. Unlike many popcorn options loaded with salt, makhana is very low in sodium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure and protects your heart.
6. Better for Blood Sugar
Makhana has a lower rate of increasing blood sugar than popcorn; thus, people with diabetes and blood sugar problems can rely on Makhana over their regular go-to snacks, popcorn.
7. Contains more minerals
Makhana is richer in minerals like sodium, magnesium and potassium than popcorn, it supports bone health and provides strength to muscles and also calms the heartbeat.
8. Loaded with Antioxidants
Makhana is known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Makhana fights excessive free radicals, helping slow ageing and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart problems.
9. Supports Gut Health
Makhana has a high content of fibre, which helps in digestion, prevents constipation and also nourishes the gut bacteria. All these properties make makhana the right choice for people from all age groups.
10. Helps in Weight Loss and Satiety
Eating makhana makes you feel full, and you stop craving other things to satiate your hunger at odd times of the day. Makhana’s unique mix of high fibre, protein and low calories makes it the best choice for those who are looking for weight loss.
11. Easier to Digest
To the people who are sensitive to their gut health, unlike popcorn, Makhana is extremely light on the stomach, and it is less likely to cause bloating to people who face such problems. This is a common issue with popcorn, especially for sensitive individuals.
12. Makhana is Naturally Non-Processed
Popcorn is generally processed with extra added oils, artificial flavours and salt. Makhana is a wise alternative to resolve to as it is simply roasted and offered just with salt. There are no hidden ingredients or any artificial taste enhancers in Makhana.
13. Functional Benefits and it is Ayurveda-approved
Makhana has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, and it balances hormones, helps in detoxing the kidneys, boosts fertility functions as a good stress reliever, and provides energy that lasts long where as popcorn is just another snack available, which does not offer anything that Makhana does.
Read More: 11 Health Benefits of Makhana: Why You Should Eat It Every Day
Nutritional Comparison Table: Makhana vs Popcorn
| Snack | Calories | Protein | Fat | Sodium | Calcium | Magnesium | Fiber |
| Makhana | 180 | 9.7g | 0.5g | ~Low | High | High | 7g |
| Popcorn | 194 | 6g | 1.5g | High | Low | Lower | 7g |
Source : APEDA
Cashew vs Almond vs Popcorn vs Raw Makhana Seeds vs Popped Makhana
| Nutritional Content (100g) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Popped Makhana | Cashew | Almond | Popcorn | |
| Moisture (g) | 12 | 4.4 | 4.37 | 3.32 |
| Ash (g) | 0.38 | 2.25 | 2.62 | 1.42 |
| Protein (g) | 11.03 | 18.78 | 18.41 | 12.9 |
| Fiber (g) | 3.26 | 3.86 | 13.06 | 2.56 |
| Fats (g) | 0.33 | 45.2 | 58.49 | 4.54 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 84.87 | 25.46 | 3.04 | 77.8 |
| Mineral Content (100g) | ||||
| Calcium (mg) | 20.94 | 34 | 228 | 7 |
| Sodium (mg) | 4.06 | 9 | 1.5 | 8 |
| Potassium (mg) | 48.39 | 635 | 699 | 329 |
| Magnesium (mg) | 12.71 | 307 | 318 | 144 |
| Phosphorus (mg) | 124.01 | 500 | 446 | 358 |
| Iron (mg) | 2.67 | 5.95 | 4.59 | 3.19 |
| Manganese (mg) | 1.24 | 1.78 | 2.54 | 1.11 |
| Zinc (mg) | 0.64 | 5.3 | 3.5 | 3.45 |
| Copper (mg) | 0.76 | 2.23 | 1.08 | 0.26 |
| Source: APEDA | ||||
Should You Switch to Makhana??
Whether you want more protein or need a snack that is light yet filling, or just want to care for your heart, bones, and digestion, makhana is the clear winner. There are thousands of recipes available, which opens a vast range of options for including Makhana in your diet, unlike Popcorn