The Health Benefits and Risks of Makdous, According to a Nutritionist

Makdous is a small to medium-sized eggplant stuffed with walnuts, garlic, and red pepper, then pickled in olive oil. It's a traditional preserved food prepared annually in many Arab countries.اضافة اعلان
Makdous is a delicious, filling food that pairs well with labneh, cheese, or eggs.

To learn more about its benefits, Sayidaty interviewed nutritionist Abeer Abou Rjeily from Diet of the Town clinic, who provided the following insights:



Makdous: Benefits and Nutritional Value
Nutritionist Abeer began by highlighting that makdous is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it promotes satiety. However, it should be consumed in moderation, as it is high in calories.
A single small makdous can contain between 150–250 calories, depending on the amount of walnuts and olive oil it contains.
It also has a high salt content, used to preserve it for long periods, which poses a risk for high blood pressure.

Makdous may also cause digestive discomfort due to its garlic and pepper content.
If not stored properly, harmful bacteria can grow inside, potentially leading to food poisoning.

She went on to explain the benefits of each ingredient in makdous:

Eggplant Benefits
Low in calories (only 18 kcal per 100g) and rich in water

Contains essential minerals: magnesium, zinc, and potassium

Rich in vitamins B, E, C, and provitamin A

Acts as a good laxative and diuretic

Recommended for cardiovascular, kidney, rheumatic, and digestive conditions

Helps digestion and reduces bad cholesterol

Its high fiber content improves intestinal transit

Olive Oil Benefits
Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that restore balance in fat intake

Protects heart health and all body cells from oxidative damage

Rich in antioxidants

A recent study shows regular olive oil consumption may reduce the risk of breast, colon, rectal, and respiratory system cancers

Walnut Benefits
Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins E and B

High in polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3

Supports cardiovascular health and reduces cholesterol and diabetes risks

High in healthy fats and fiber, making it naturally appetite-suppressing and useful for constipation

Its brain-like shape reflects its benefits for memory and concentration

Garlic Benefits
Helps reduce the risk of heart disease and manage cholesterol levels

Acts as a blood thinner, reducing heart attack risks

Lowers blood pressure by dilating blood vessels

Contains sulfur compounds under study for their potential to fight cancer cells and tumors

Effective against infections thanks to allicin

May relieve inflammation associated with osteoarthritis

Red Pepper Benefits
Extremely rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity, collagen production, and iron absorption

Source of vitamin B6, essential for energy, nervous system health, protein synthesis, and red blood cell formation

Rich in provitamin A (beta-carotene) that supports iron metabolism, skin and mucous membrane health, vision, immune function, and growth

Contains potassium (a diuretic) and powerful antioxidants like flavonoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin