What are the Health Benefits of Roasted Chestnuts?

Packed with nutrients and having a pleasing taste, chestnuts are high in vitamin C, minerals (such as potassium, copper and magnesium), amino acids and antioxidants. As for a quick nutrition information, 1-ounce (approximately 28g) serving of chestnuts which is roughly equal to 3 chestnuts contains approximately 75 calories and 15g of carbs.

Roasted Chestnuts Health Benefits:

Digestive Health: Chestnuts are rich in insoluble fiber. Insoluble fibers create bulk in the stool and help it pass through the system quickly. This in turn, helps reduce the risk for constipation. 3 servings of roasted chestnuts contain 4 grams of fiber. Nuts have predominately insoluble fiber.

Stable Energy Levels: Nuts are generally low in carbs, that is why they often are part of low-carb diet plans. Chestnuts, though, have a high amount of carbs. They contain 45 grams of carbs per serving. Carbs are needed for both short and long term energy, and they also help with nervous system function. The carbs found in chestnuts are complex. Complex carbs are digested slowly, and this is why they promote in providing even more energy levels. Dissimilar to complex carbs, simple carbs tend to give you a fast spike of energy followed by a fast drop.

Improved Brain Function: The B vitamins have several functions. They help in breaking down protein, carbs and fats for energy, produce red blood cells, promote healthy skin and enhance brain function. Chestnuts contain moderately high amounts of B vitamins, 3 servings contain 21% of the recommended daily value of B-6, 15% of Folate, 14% of Thiamine and 9% of Riboflavin. For a vitamin B-packed meal, eat roasted chestnuts with a leafy green salad and lean meat as appetizers.

Disease Risk Reduction: Chestnuts have a high content of the trace mineral Manganese, an antioxidant, which reduces the risk of Cancer and Heart Disease. It also plays a key role in the Aging process. It moreover helps with connective-tissue production and blood clotting. 3 servings of chestnuts contain just over 1 microgram of Manganese, which is 50% of the recommended daily intake. For a manganese-packed breakfast, add chopped chestnuts to a bowl of oatmeal.

Stronger Bones: Copper is a trace mineral that boosts the immune system, helps with red blood cell formation and nerve function and also enhances bone strength. Trace minerals are only needed in tiny amounts by the body. 3 servings, chestnuts contain 22% of the recommended daily value of copper. For a snack high in copper, pair roasted chestnuts with dried prunes.

Christelle Bedrossian
Dietitian-Nutritionist
Beirut, Lebanon