Makhana gains popularity among women in Capital

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th Mar, 2026) The growing number of women in the Federal capital is embracing makhana—commonly known as fox nuts—as a nutritious addition to their daily diet, driven by increasing health awareness and social media trends promoting natural, low-calorie foods.

Dry fruit sellers across major markets, including Aabpara, G-9, F-6, F-7, F-8, F-10 and I-8 have reported a significant surge in the demand for makhana over the past year. Shopkeepers attribute this rise to a shift in consumer preferences toward healthier snacking options.

Talking to APP, Anayat, a dry fruit vendor in Aabpara, said that more women are now actively seeking makhana due to its perceived health benefits. “People are more aware now, especially because of online content highlighting natural foods,” he noted.

Regular consumers have also claimed noticeable improvements in their well-being. Rubab, a resident of Islamabad, while sharing her experience with APP, said that she consumes makhana daily. “I add it to a cup of hot milk with a teaspoon of honey every night. I feel more energetic, and my stamina has improved,” she said.

Health experts support these claims, emphasizing makhana’s nutritional value. Derived from the seeds of the lotus plant (Euryale ferox), makhana is rich in calcium, magnesium, and protein—nutrients essential for maintaining bone strength, especially among women at risk of osteoporosis.

Dr. Ayesha, a nutritionist at a private clinic, said that women, particularly after the age of 30, start experiencing gradual bone loss.

Including makhana in their daily diet could help slow down this process. She emphasized that its high calcium content makes makhana a valuable dietary addition for preventing conditions like osteoporosis.

She also highlighted its antioxidant properties, which contribute to better skin health and reduced inflammation. Unlike processed snacks, makhana is low in fat and gluten-free, making it suitable for women managing weight or dealing with dietary restrictions. Despite its benefits, she advised moderation. “While makhana is healthy, it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and other protein sources,” she added.

Fitness trainers in Islamabad have also started recommending makhana as a pre- or post-workout snack. Fitness coach Sana Malik, who works with women clients focusing on strength and wellness, told APP that makhana is light, nutritious, and helps keep energy levels stable. It works well as a pre- or post-workout food due to its light nature and ability to sustain energy levels.

Rehana, a trainee, said that she eats makhana after workouts. She added that she prefers roasted makhana, either dry or lightly prepared with ghee, as a daily snack. Its benefits include low calorie content, ease of digestion, and the ability to curb cravings without excess sugar or fat.

With its growing popularity, makhana is fast becoming a staple in the capital’s health-conscious households, particularly among women seeking natural ways to improve bone health and overall fitness.

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