How Much Makhana Should You Eat Daily?

Knowing how much makhana per day you should eat depends on your age, activity level, and health goals. Makhana (fox nuts) is low in calories, high in fiber, and light on digestion, making it suitable for daily consumption when eaten in moderation.
For most healthy adults, the ideal daily intake is 25–30 grams, which equals about 1 to 2 small handfuls of roasted makhana. This portion provides enough nutrition without adding excess calories.
Quick Answer:
Most people can safely eat 25–30 grams (1–2 handfuls) of makhana per day. Makhana is a healthy snack that supports weight loss, weight gain, and overall nutrition when eaten in the right portion and at the right time.
Explore more about makhana, read our following guides:
- What Is Makhana?
- Makhana Nutrition Value Per 100g
- Is Makhana Good for Weight Loss?
- Is Makhana Keto Friendly?
- Is Roasted Makhana Healthy?
Can We Eat Makhana at Night?
Yes, you can eat makhana at night, and it is actually one of the best evening snacks.
Makhana is:
- Light on the stomach
- Low in fat
- Easy to digest
- Free from refined sugar
Eating roasted makhana in the evening or after dinner helps control late-night cravings without disturbing digestion or sleep.
Best option:
Dry roasted or lightly spiced makhana without butter or cream.
Best Time to Eat Makhana

The best time to eat makhana depends on your purpose:
- Morning: For light energy and digestion
- Evening: As a healthy snack to avoid junk food
- Night: In small quantity, if you feel hungry
Avoid eating large portions late at night, especially if roasted with oil or ghee.
Is Makhana Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, makhana or lotus seed is excellent for weight loss.
Why makhana supports weight loss:
- Low calorie food
- High fiber keeps you full
- Reduces cravings
- Helps portion control
Recommended amount for weight loss:
20–25 grams per day, dry roasted
Avoid adding excess oil, butter, or sugar if your goal is fat loss.
Is Makhana Good for Weight Gain?
Yes, makhana can also support healthy weight gain when eaten correctly.
For weight gain:
- Increase portion size
- Combine with milk, nuts, or ghee
- Eat as mid-meal or post-workout snack
Recommended amount for weight gain:
👉 30–40 grams per day
This helps add calories without relying on junk food.
Is Makhana a Healthy Snack?
Absolutely. Makhana is one of the healthiest Indian snacks.
It is:
- Gluten-free
- Cholesterol-free
- Low in sodium
- Rich in minerals
Compared to fried snacks, biscuits, or namkeen, makhana provides nutrition without harming digestion or heart health.
How Much Makhana Is Too Much?
Eating too much makhana can cause:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Constipation
Do not exceed 40–50 grams per day, especially if you are new to eating makhana.
Moderation is key.
Summary: Ideal Daily Intake of Makhana
| Goal | Recommended Quantity |
|---|---|
| General health | 25–30 grams |
| Weight loss | 20–25 grams |
| Weight gain | 30–40 grams |
| Night snack | Small handful |
Q1. Is it safe to eat makhana daily?
Ans: Yes, makhana can be eaten daily in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
Q2. Can we eat makhana at night for weight loss?
Ans: Yes, eating a small portion of roasted makhana at night helps control cravings and supports weight loss.
Q3. Is makhana better than chips or namkeen?
Ans: Yes, makhana is much healthier as it is low in fat and calories compared to fried snacks.
Q4. How many calories are in one handful of makhana?
Ans: One handful (about 15 grams) contains approximately 50–55 calories.