Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and important phases in a woman’s life. It’s not just the body that changes, but also the way a woman thinks and feels about herself—her priorities, attitude, and lifestyle—all begin to transform. During this time, many women face common health challenges like insomnia, diarrhoea, high or low blood pressure, gestational diabetes, urinary tract infections, food cravings, weakness, weight gain, bleeding gums, and the need for healthy fetal development. Including makhana during pregnancy can be a smart nutritional choice, as it helps manage cravings, supports digestion, and provides essential nutrients for both mother and baby in a light, healthy way.
How Makhana (Fox Nut) Helps During Pregnancy?
Makhana during pregnancy is a smart, nutrient-rich snack for expecting mothers. Also known as fox nuts or popped lotus seeds, makhana is packed with calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium—vital for both mom and baby. Low in calories and rich in antioxidants, makhana during pregnancy helps manage gestational diabetes and supports healthy fetal growth.

Makhana Benefits during Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of major physical and hormonal shifts, your body requires more nutrients to sustain a growing child. You can look in from this article on makhana:
1. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Makhana is packed with important minerals like:
Calcium – for the development of strong bones and teeth of the baby
Magnesium: for muscle function, reducing cramps
Iron – assists in preventing the anaemia that often occurs during pregnancy
Phosphorus and Potassium – for development of the fetus as a whole
A small bowl of roasted makhana is also your quick fix to add a dose of nutrients to your diet, and that too without any added sugar or preservatives.
2. Supports Digestive Health
Many times during pregnancy, digestion problems arrive with you and are followed by constipation, bloating and acidity. High in fiber which stops constipation as well digestive problems
It is light, digestible and cleanliness is no part for expectant mothers as well.
3. Curbs Unhealthy Cravings
Let’s face it: Pregnant food cravings are for real! From sweet to salty to spicy the munching instinct runs endless. Instead of grabbing chips or those sugary munchies makhana in a healthier form, you should try this.
With a pinch of rock salt, black pepper or mild spices (if that is your thing) you get your sweet craving within a weeknight snack where no guilt is involved and crunchy toasted too.
4. Improves Sleep Quality
The fact being the hormonal changes during pregnancy affect many women with sleep. Pregnant women tend to have some issues related with sleep, Makhana have a tryptophan which aid in making melatonin (sleep hormone)
An evening or bedtime dose for a handful of makhana, is very likely going to make you relax and sleep better.
5. Controls Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a problem for pregnant women. Makhana is low in sodium and high in potassium which makes it great for reducing blood pressure levels naturally.
The regular consumption of makhana can also help keep your heart healthy and prevent complications during pregnancy.
6. Gestational Diabetes Control
Estrogen, for example, can cause a woman’s body to become resistant to insulin, leading to gestational diabetes in some women. Makhana has a low glycemic index, thus it does not spike the blood sugar levels drastically.
It’s also a slow release energy that will keep you full for longer – ideal for keeping your sugar intake under control.
7. Supports Healthy Weight Gain
Weight gain during pregnancy is necessary, but not by consuming junk food or empty calories. Makhana helps you gain weight in a healthy way by offering high-quality calories that are packed with protein and nutrients.
How to Include Makhana in Your Pregnancy Diet?
Here are a few easy, secure, and delicious ways to eat makhana while pregnant:
- Makhana roasted
Add a teaspoon of ghee to a handful of dry-roasted makhana and season with cumin powder or pink salt.
It’s the ideal snack to have in between meals or in the evening.
- Kheer Makhana
Make a creamy kheer by boiling makhana in milk and adding a small amount of jaggery.
For added nutrition, include dry fruits like dates and almonds.
- Makhana and Fruit Bowl
For a light and refreshing mini-meal, combine chopped fruits like apples or bananas with roasted makhana.
- Packaged Roasted Makhana Snacks
Roasted makhana is available in ready-to-eat varieties from companies like Desi Pops. They are travel-friendly, healthful, and convenient!
Some Directions to Remember
- Eat makhana lightly at all times. A healthy amount is between 30 and 40 grams per day
- For easier digestion, opt for roasted makhana rather than fried.
- Steer clear of overly spicy or artificial flavors.
- Before including makhana into your diet, speak with your doctor if you have a nut or seed allergy.
The conclusion suggestions
The journey of pregnancy is filled with love, nurturing, and care. Every bite you take plays a vital role in supporting both your health and the well-being of your baby.
Among the best choices for a healthy pregnancy diet is makhana during pregnancy. It’s one of the few superfoods that’s easy to digest, nutrient-dense, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re managing weight, curbing cravings, or boosting energy, makhana during pregnancy can be your perfect companion.
So feel free to upgrade your pregnancy diet in a healthy way. Additionally, keep in mind that healthy mothers produce healthy children.
Looking for ready-to-eat, tasty, and healthy makhana snacks?
Try Snacking bole to desi pops roasted makhana – made especially for health-conscious moms like you!