The health benefits of chestnuts - Hunimed (2024)

FAQs

What health benefits do chestnuts have? ›

Chestnuts contain fat-soluble vitamins (Ascorbic acid, B1, B2, B3, B6, and E) which promote healthy skin and improve brain function [15,33]. They play a key role in the aging process, help prevent blood clotting, are gluten-free, and are of great benefit to patients with celiac disease [4,34,35].

Compared to most nuts, chestnuts are lower in protein, fat and calories. Yet, one serving (about ten nuts) contains 36% DV (Daily Value, based on 2,000 calories per day) of antioxidant vitamin C, 17% DV of satiating dietary fiber, and a full 50% DV of manganese for healthy bones.

The potassium content in chestnuts can help manage blood pressure by: Controlling the movement of water in the body. Alleviating the effects of sodium by increasing blood flow and releasing the pressure on constricted blood vessels and arteries.

A naturally sweet, healthy and wholesome snack to keep you energized throughout the day. Chestnuts are high in fibre and contain a significant amount of potassium.

Chestnuts lose some of their vitamin C if you boil or roast them, but still have anywhere from 15 to 20 percent of your daily intake for this healthy vitamin. To retain more vitamin C in chestnuts when cooking, you can roast them at lower temperatures or use a food dehydrator to dry them.

Chestnuts have therapeutic properties, and due to their high energy value, they are especially recommended for athletes and children. They help with kidney problems and digestion. Chestnut tea has the effect of alleviating the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, and can be eaten in soups and salads.

Certain people with severe intestinal issues, kidney problems, liver disease, and those who are pregnant, should avoid raw chestnuts. These nuts are usually boiled or roasted before eating due to the high levels of tannic acid.

Nutrition-wise, chestnuts have some major differences from almonds, walnuts, and other nuts. They're lower in calories and fat, but still offer decent amounts of antioxidants and minerals. And chestnuts get accolades for their versatility in the kitchen.

American chestnut is safe for most people in the amounts found in food and beverages. It is not known if American chestnut is safe in the larger amounts typically used as medicine. American chestnut might cause some side effects such as stomach and intestinal problems, kidney and liver damage, and certain cancers.

Yes, They're Good, but They Should be Well-Cooked!

Therefore, the oligosaccharides in chestnuts continue fermenting in the colon because the enzymes cannot break them down. Please remember that individuals suffering from colitis, abdominal bloating, and frequent stomachaches should avoid eating chestnuts.

Are chestnuts full of sugar? ›

Chestnuts have certain nutritional characteristics similar to those of cereals. Even though they do not contain gluten, they do have a high content of sugars, especially starch. Chestnuts are rich in fiber, as well as mineral salts such as potassium, phosphorus, and small quantities of iron.

However, chestnuts are still considered a higher carb nut. While eating a small to moderate quantity of chestnuts may offer these benefits, consuming too many chestnuts frequently may counter these health benefits. Chestnuts are a good source of fiber, which may help balance your blood sugar levels and prevent spikes.

Hair is damaged by dyes, hair irons, hair dryers and chemical treatments that make hair weak and brittle, hindering its ability to retain water. The chestnut extract is said to repair and protect hair from this daily damage without causing buildup and is said to impart a glossy look to hair.

Stored in good conditions in your refrigerator, chestnuts should keep for a month or two. Chestnuts can be frozen once they are peeled. Thawed chestnut kernels are great for recipes requiring purees and confections, and OK for soups, stews etc.

Packed with nutrients

Despite their small size, chestnuts are packed with a variety of nutrients. A 10-kernel (84-gram) serving of roasted chestnuts provides the following ( 1 ): Calories: 206. Protein: 2.7 grams.

Chestnuts have certain nutritional characteristics similar to those of cereals. Even though they do not contain gluten, they do have a high content of sugars, especially starch. Chestnuts are rich in fiber, as well as mineral salts such as potassium, phosphorus, and small quantities of iron.

Water chestnuts are very nutritious and contain high amounts of fiber, potassium, manganese, copper, vitamin B6 and riboflavin. Most of their calories come from carbs.