"I eat...at least 300 days a year." PM Modi's daily diet includes this superfood: 6 ways you can enjoy it too

From Khichdi to moringa paratha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is known for his healthy food choices. In his program Mann ki Baat and many public gatherings, he has often talked about his simple and clean eating habits that help him stay fit and active at the age of 75. And when it comes to snacking too, he prefers healthier options. According to an ANI report from February 2025, he mentioned that he eats a superfood at least 300 out of 365 days. Scroll down to know more about it.

At a rally for the release of the 19th instalment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) in Bihar, PM Modi revealed that he eats the "superfood" Makhana (foxnut) "at least 300 out of 365 days". "Now Makhana has become a staple part of breakfast in cities across the country. Speaking personally, I eat makhana at least 300 out of 365 days a year. It is a superfood that we must now take to global markets. That's why, in this year's budget, the government has announced the formation of a Makhana Board for the benefit of makhana farmers," the Prime Minister said at a rally in Bhagalpur.

Foxnut, also known as Makhana or Euryale Fox, comes from the seeds of the Euryale ferox plant, a type of water lily that grows in stagnant water, mainly in India and China. The value that lotus seeds hold with respect to their utility in medicinal practices makes them an incredible snack today. Given the nutritional value they contain, makhanas are priced quite dearly these days. Not many people know, but 90 per cent of the world’s makhana comes from Bihar. Given the huge production of these nuts, the makhana made in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar earned the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022.

Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar calls it a superfood packed with nutrients and makes for a healthy snack that can be used in different ways. It is said to be rich in protein, which is great for muscle repair and growth. Also, it is a good source of fiber that aids digestion and it contains essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. It is low in calories and fat, making it a great snack option. It is also low in cholesterol and sodium, which helps maintain heart health, and the high amount of potassium found in these seeds help regulate blood pressure. They are rich in fiber that supports better digestion. They are also rich in calcium content that helps strengthen bones and teeth. And it is also said that the low glycemic index of this snack item makes it good for diabetes. Also, the rich antioxidant content found in makhana helps reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, promotes collagen production, and keeps the skin youthful and glowing. It is also said to promote satiety, making it a healthy choice for weight management and reducing unhealthy snacking. Its antioxidant content may help protect cells from oxidative stress, while minerals such as calcium and magnesium support bone and heart health. Its antioxidant properties may help protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall wellness. The calcium and magnesium in makhana contribute to strong bones and healthy heart function. Makhana contains minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which play a role in maintaining normal blood pressure and supporting cardiovascular health.

Simply toss makhana with spices and roast until crispy for a crunchy, savory treat.

Soak and blend makhana into a puree along with flattened rice. Add salt and soda and make dosa out of it.

Boil milk and add roasted makhana to it. Cook it along with saffron, nuts, and sugar. Enjoy it warm or cold.

Mix makhana with roasted peanuts, curry leaves, and spices to create a crunchy chivda.

Top makhana with a dollop of fresh yogurt and a sprinkle of spices for a refreshing snack.

To make this, add roasted makhana on a plate, top it with curd herbs, coriander, chaat masala, pomegranate seeds, coriander leaves, lemon juice, and sev. Serve fresh.

Mix makhana with finely chopped onions, juicy tomatoes, and homemade chutneys for a flavorful bhel-style snack.