In the world of snacks, the choices are as diverse as they are delicious. Among these options, two contenders stand out for their unique characteristics and nutritional profiles: potato chips and makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds. While both offer a satisfying crunch, they hail from vastly different sources and bring distinct health benefits. In this article, we embark on a journey to compare makhana nutritional value with that of potato chips. Do the lower calories in makhana also make it a better overall snacking choice?
Makhana, often celebrated for its ancient origins and impressive nutrient content, takes center stage as we explore how it stacks up against the perennial favorite, potato chips. From calorie counts to essential nutrients, we’ll delve deep into the nutritional aspects of these snacks to help you make informed choices when reaching for that tempting bag of munchies. So, let’s dive in and uncover the nutritional treasures these snacks offer.
Unravelling the Significance of Each Element
Before we get into the exciting showdown between makhana nutritional value per 100g with that of potato chips, let’s take a closer look at the importance of each nutrient for our bodies. While we know that the calories in makhana are lower than potato chips, we will also find out how they compare in terms of the below-mentioned macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrients
- Calories
- Calories are the fuel that our bodies need to function properly. We need calories for everything we do, from breathing to running a marathon.
- If we eat too few calories, our bodies will not have enough energy to function properly. If we eat too many calories, our bodies will store the extra energy as fat.
- Total Fat
- Dietary fat is an important nutrient that our bodies need. It helps us absorb fat-soluble vitamins, which are essential for our vision, immune system, and other bodily functions.
- Fat also provides us with a lot of energy, which is why we often feel full after eating fatty foods.
- However, it is important to eat fat in moderation. Eating too much fat can lead to obesity and heart disease. This is because excess fat is stored in our bodies as adipose tissue, which can clog our arteries and increase our risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Saturated Fat
- Saturated fats, which are found in many foods, can raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. High LDL cholesterol levels can increase your risk of heart disease.
- Reducing your intake of saturated fat is important for keeping your heart healthy.
- Protein
- Protein is the nutrient that our bodies need to build and repair muscle tissue, skin, hair, nails, and other body parts.
- They are not only the building blocks of our bodies, but they also play a vital role in many bodily functions. Enzymes and hormones are two types of proteins that are essential for life. Enzymes help to speed up chemical reactions in our bodies, while hormones help to regulate various bodily functions.
Macronutrients
- Magnesium
- Magnesium is a nutrient that our bodies need to function properly. It is involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, including those that are responsible for muscle contractions, nerve impulses, and blood sugar control. Magnesium also helps to maintain healthy bones and teeth.
- It is a nutrient that our bodies need to keep our hearts beating regularly and our bodies functioning properly.
- Potassium
- Potassium is a mineral that our bodies need to keep our muscles functioning properly, send nerve signals, and maintain a regular heartbeat.
- It is a mineral that our bodies need to keep our fluids balanced and our muscles and nerves functioning properly.
- Calcium
- When you don’t get enough calcium, your body takes calcium from your bones to meet its needs. This can lead to bone loss and osteoporosis, a condition that causes weak and brittle bones.
- Calcium is a mineral that our bodies need for more than just strong bones and teeth. It also plays a vital role in blood clotting and nerve signalling.
Makhana Nutritional Value Per 100g
Having unravelled the profound importance of each nutritional element in our earlier discussion, it’s time to turn our attention to makhana nutritional value per 100g and compare it to potato chips.
Makhana (Plain)
- Calories (332kcal): Calories in makhana are moderate, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to manage their calorie intake.
- Total Fat (2g): It is exceptionally low in total fat, ideal for those seeking a low-fat snack option.
- Saturated Fat (0.3g): Makhana is remarkably low in saturated fat, reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
- Makhana Protein (15g): Makhana boasts a substantial protein content, making it a suitable choice for individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
- Magnesium (210mg): Abundant in magnesium, Makhana contributes to muscle and nerve function and overall well-being.
- Potassium (1368mg): Its high potassium content helps regulate heart rhythm and maintain proper muscle and nerve function.
- Calcium (163mg): Makhana aids in bone health with a significant calcium content.
Source: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170149/nutrients
Potato Chips (Plain)
- Calories (545 kcal): Potato chips are undeniably energy-dense, with a serving providing a substantial calorie count. These calories make them a satisfying snack option.
- Total Fat (35.3g): One of the defining characteristics of potato chips is their notable total fat content. They are known for their rich, savoury taste, largely attributed to the presence of fats.
- Saturated Fat (8.64g): Potato chips contain a relatively high amount of saturated fat. While this contributes to their flavor and texture, it’s important to be mindful of saturated fat intake, as excess consumption may have implications for heart health.
- Protein (4.62g): In contrast to their fat content, potato chips provide a relatively modest amount of protein. Protein is an essential nutrient for various bodily functions, including muscle maintenance.
- Magnesium (40mg): Potato chips offer a small amount of magnesium. This mineral is involved in muscle and nerve function, but the quantity in potato chips is limited.
- Potassium (637mg): They contain a noteworthy amount of potassium, which is essential for regulating muscle contractions, nerve signals, and maintaining overall bodily fluid balance.
- Calcium (17mg): Potato chips have a limited calcium content. While calcium is primarily associated with bone health, potato chips may not be a significant source of this mineral.
Source: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168853/nutrients
It becomes evident that makhana stands out as the healthier choice. With significantly fewer calories in makhana and a remarkably lower total fat content, makhana offers a satisfying snack option that aligns well with calorie-conscious and health-conscious individuals. Moreover, makhana nutritional value per 100g boasts an impressive protein content, nearly four times that of potato chips, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a protein-rich snack. Additionally, makhana’s abundant magnesium and potassium levels support overall well-being, contributing to muscle and nerve function, heart health, and electrolyte balance. Its substantial calcium content also promotes strong bones, further emphasizing makhana’s nutritional value.
Conclusion
In the exploration of “Potato Chips vs. Makhana Nutritional Value,” we’ve embarked on a journey through the realm of snacking, deciphering the nutritional treasures concealed within these popular treats. Makhana, with its impressive nutritional profile, emerges as the clear winner in this nutritional showdown.
As we’ve observed, Makhana presents a compelling case for health-conscious individuals seeking a satisfying snack option. With remarkably lower calories in makhana and minimal total fat content, it is a preferred choice for those aiming to maintain a balanced diet. The substantial protein content in makhana elevates its nutritional value, offering muscle support and overall bodily function.
Moreover, makhana’s abundance of essential minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, sets it apart as a snack that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also contributes to overall well-being. These minerals play pivotal roles in muscle and nerve function, heart health, and bone strength.
As we navigate the diverse world of snacking choices, let us remember the importance of making informed decisions that align with our health and dietary goals.
So, the next time you reach for a snack, remember to check out our handpicked Makhana varieties Jumbo & Premium Makhana.