Lose weight with chestnuts: The superfood that targets belly fat and lowers cholesterol

It's the season to enjoy hot and roasted chestnuts straight out of the oven. A delightful snack, this true nut has a nutritional profile similar to a fruit rather than the regular nuts. Unlike other nuts, an ounce of chestnuts has a very low caloric content which could be beneficial for weight loss. They’re also relatively low in fat which makes them a guilt-free indulgence.

Low in calories and extremely satiating, it is especially a perfect choice for those on weight loss journey. With low fat and calories, studies suggest the addition of chestnut to the diet can help reduce the accumulation of belly fat. One ounce of chestnuts has around 70 calories, while the same amount of almonds comes around 170 calories.

Chestnuts can be eaten raw, roasted, or grounded, and are enjoyed after removing their outer shell. The taste may differ between raw and cooked versions, as they are slightly bitter when eaten raw, while roasting or boiling brings out their sweeter, softer side, which is also easier to digest. Their popular species include Chinese chestnut, the Japanese chestnut, the European chestnut, and the American chestnut.

Weight loss and belly fat loss

An animal study has found that snacking on chestnuts could help cut cholesterol and belly fat. However, more studies are needed to establish this. Considering they are low in calories and high in fibre, this can increase the production of appetite-curbing hormones like peptide YY (PYY) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

A Vitamin C powerhouse

Chestnuts have a very large amount of Vitamin C, a good amount of vitamin B6, thiamin, folate and riboflavin, generous amounts of manganese, potassium, copper, phosphorus, magnesium and iron, and a small amount of unsaturated fatty acids. Vitamin C can nourish hair and skin during winter months and aid in boosting immunity to fight against infections.

Antioxidant

Chestnuts are also an amazing source of polyphenols such as gallic acid and ellagic acid. These antioxidants help fight free radicals, and reduce inflammation in the body.

Gluten-free

People with celiac disease or food allergies can bank on chestnuts as they are gluten-free. People with these food intolerances are not advised to have nuts in general.

Helps in satiety

They also have a good amount of resistant starch which can promote a feeling of satiety and prevent unhealthy cravings and undesired weight gain.

Low in fat and sodium

As per Research Gate, chestnuts are very low in fat, low in salt with no cholesterol. They are a great source of smart carbohydrates - mostly starch. They are also high in dietary fibre and rich in minerals like potassium and calcium.

Controls blood sugar spikes

Chestnuts have a low glycemic index which makes them an ideal snack for people with diabetes.