From Heart Issues to Digestion and Bad Allergy, Know How Snacking On Too Many Makhanas A Day Can Be Dangerous

Makha or fox nuts do not need any introduction when it comes to power-packed snacking. Packed with nourishing nutrients, most health-conscious people usually nudge these desi nuts or have them stacked in their kitchen. Apart from helping you with ailments like diabetes and heart disease, makhanas are always a go-to choice of snack for those trying to lose weight. However, according to experts, overconsumption can be deadly.

According to endocrinologist Dr. Vikram Sabharwal, for those who are diabetic and take blood pressure medicines, overeating makhanas can be detrimental to heart health. “Makhanas shoot up your potassium levels and can interfere with ARB medicines (angiotensin II receptor blockers), which again increase potassium in your body,” he said on his social media channel.

“So, if you are eating too many makhanas daily, your potassium levels can go dangerously high, leading to cardiac arrhythmia,” Dr. Sabharwal added.

Also known as hyperkalemia, the condition that happens due to high potassium levels can disrupt the normal electrical signals that control your heart's rhythm, leading to irregular heartbeats. Doctors say it can range from mild palpitations to serious conditions like ventricular fibrillation, which can lead to cardiac arrest and even death.

According to Dr. Sabharwal, makhanas when roasted are always eaten along with adding a few spices and salt. Too much can lead to high blood pressure levels.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk of developing heart disease, which is why you should eat makhana in moderation.

While makhana is a light food, overconsuming it can lead to constipation. “A lot of people do not realize that makhanas are causing them (stomach) allergies. The simplest of them could be a stomachache, diarrhoea, or even constipation,” he said.

Makhanas are rich in fibre which can cause constipation as it draws away water from the intestine, leading to excessive bloating.

While calcium is an important nutrient for your body, a buildup of this nutrient is not. According to Dr. Sabharwal, makhana is a rich source of calcium, and excessive consumption can lead to calcification in the bones and other parts of the body. “Makhanas promote metastatic calcification,” he added. Metastatic calcification is a condition where calcium deposits in normal tissue, leading to chronic kidney diseases, excess vitamin D, and even osteoporosis in the long run.

According to experts, pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid eating makhana as it can lead to complications obstructing the absorption of medicines into the body.

Doctors suggest maintaining a balance in every food you consume. Only a fistful of makhana along with tea or milk is good—around 30-60 grams can work wonders for you and not lead to any side effects.

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