Autumn arrives, quiet and discreet, and brings with it a series of images that recur in our memory. The leaves, fallen from the branches, turn the streets yellow. Fires begin to crackle in the chimneys of the houses. And often, around those fires, we gather to eat chestnuts.
They, chestnuts, are the autumn fruit par excellence. From October to December, they fill the stalls of markets and supermarkets: all of Italy is greedy. Few, however, are aware of the fact that chestnuts are not only good, but also seem to be good for widespread problems. In fact, the natural antidote to bad cholesterol and kidney stones is this beloved autumn fruit. Although many dwell on the defects of chestnuts (fruits more caloric than the norm), they can contribute to our health with their nutritional characteristics.
The natural antidote to bad cholesterol and kidney stones is this beloved autumn fruit
A hectogram of chestnuts provides about 165 calories, divided as follows between the main nutritional properties. 84% of calories come from carbohydrates, 7% from protein and the remaining 9% from fat. Therefore, it is not really a fruit suitable for low-calorie diets. However, it has a number of unique characteristics, which can be of great benefit to our health. Although they are rich in carbohydrates, the high number of fibers makes them a food with a low glycemic index (therefore not deleterious for diabetics).
At the same time, unlike most nuts, chestnuts are low in oxalate. This molecule is one of the main responsible for the formation of kidney stones, a risk that is not run by eating chestnuts. Also when it comes to fats, chestnuts have less than the rest of nuts, and what they do have are good fats. Among these stands out oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid capable of keeping bad cholesterol levels at bay.
The importance of good chestnut fats
Even EFSA, the European Food Safety Authority, has recommended using products rich in oleic acid to rebalance cholesterol levels. Foods that provide this nutrient (such as olive oil and chestnuts) are also natural antioxidants and anti-hypertensive agents. For this reason they are to be considered allies of the health of the cardiovascular system.
Although its beneficial effect is proven, it is good, however, not to overdo it. Food rich in oleic acid is still very caloric, which is why excessive use brings with it natural side effects, such as weight gain.
Deepening
Here is the ideal fruit for diabetics and heart patients that cannot be missing in the October cart