Chestnuts a winter nut rich in nutrients

It is a rather common picture in Greece to walk through the streets and meet a men who sell baked chestnuts!

Chestnuts are a mainly winter nuts and have a sweet, starchy and rich flavor. There are various species of chestnuts and they have high nutritional value providing few calories in comparison with other nuts (almost 170 kcal / 100gr).

Nutritional value

Chestnuts are rich in complex carbohydrates and in fibers. They have a low glycemic index making them suitable for people with diabetes, while they are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic and palmitoleic acid.

Main properties

• Increased saturation
• Treatment of constipation and better bowel movement
• Provide energy
• Antioxidant protection
• Immune boost

The high content in dietary fibers helps in gastrointestinal function, in bowel movement, provides satiety and contributes to the lowering of cholesterol levels in blood. Moreover chestnuts are rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidant compounds such as retinol, vitamin C and vitamin E, thus protecting cells from oxidative stress and chronic diseases.

It is a nutritious snack for both adults and children and provide all the necessary minerals fora  healthy wellbeing and growth. It is gluten-free.

Chestnuts apart from a nutritious dessert can also be combined with meat, giving a special taste to your Christmas dinner.