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The holiday season is often filled with exciting preparations. The end of a busy day lends itself to relaxation, especially by a fireside. There is nothing cozier than watching those crackling flames while roasting chestnuts. This nut, a seasonal favorite, is chock-full of goodness.
Chestnuts, like acorns and hazelnuts, are actually the fruit of the tree, according to BBC goodfood. Unlike other nuts, which are oily, chestnuts are low in oil and high in water. As a result, they are uniquely soft, sweet, and delicious!
While cuddling under a blanket and peeling freshly roasted chestnuts, think about how healthy they are. Oven roasted, boiled, or toasted by the open fire, here are five reasons to indulge this holiday season!
Packed with nutrients
Chestnuts are filled with important vitamins and minerals and are low in fat so they have less calories than other nuts, according to Healthline, Just ten kernels of chestnuts offer 47 percent daily value (DV) of copper, 43 percent DV manganese, 25 percent DV vitamin B6, and 24 percent DV vitamin C. Chestnuts also contain potassium, folate, thiamine, riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, plus vitamins K, B5, and B3.
Filled with antioxidants
In contrast to other nuts, chestnuts are filled with vitamin C, according to the Nutrition and You blog. Vitamin C helps with blood vessel formation, and the strengthening of teeth and bones. Being an antioxidant, vitamin C may offer protection from free radicals which may lead to chronic disease.
May help control blood sugar
Chestnuts are a good choice for those with prediabetes or diabetes, according to Healthline. Even though chestnuts have more carbs than other nuts, the high fiber in them may prevent blood sugar spiking. The antioxidants ellagic and gallic acid may also improve insulin sensitivity and may control blood sugar levels.
May aid gut health
The high fiber content in chestnuts also nourishes the gut. Not only does fiber help keep one regular, it is a prebiotic, according to Healthline. Fiber nourishes healthy bacteria in the gut and this fermented fiber may then help reduce inflammation and control blood sugar. Another benefit of fiber is that it is filling and may help with weight control.
A healthy, gluten-free choice
Chestnuts are gluten free and offer a healthy substitute when preparing food for gluten-sensitive people, according to Nutrition and You. Just like almonds and hazelnuts, opt for chestnuts when cooking for those who have wheat allergies, celiac, and gluten sensitivities. Get creative with this sweet, hearty, and nutty ingredient. Use gluten-free chestnut flour to make home-made pasta, cookies, pie crusts, and more.
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