New Delhi, January 22 (IANS). Consumption of water chestnuts has great importance in winter. People eat it raw, boil it and flavor it with salt and pepper, roast it or make halwa, puri and pakodas from water chestnut flour. Along with taste, this fruit is also full of medicinal properties.
Elements like iodine, potassium, manganese, fiber and vitamins are found in water chestnut, which support thyroid, reduce excess water, keep blood pressure balanced and give relief to the stomach.
Celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija has highlighted a special and interesting health benefit of water chestnut. He told that water chestnut looks like a small thyroid gland and the interesting thing is that its nutrients are also helpful in improving the functioning of the thyroid.
Important nutrients like iodine, potassium and manganese are found in abundance in water chestnut. Iodine is needed to make thyroid hormone, while manganese and potassium help the process of converting T4 hormone into active T3 hormone. This change is extremely essential for smooth functioning of thyroid. This information can prove useful for many people having thyroid related problems, because water chestnut is a natural and easily available fruit.
Apart from this, water chestnut is also effective in reducing excess water accumulation in the body. It is especially beneficial for those who feel swelling or heaviness due to thyroid. A good amount of potassium helps keep blood pressure balanced, which also benefits heart health.
Water chestnut is also comfortable for the stomach. Being light, it improves the digestive system and provides relief from problems like constipation.
Water chestnut is a common fruit easily available in winter, but its health benefits are immense. It can be eaten raw, boiled, roasted or used in dishes made with water chestnut flour. However, in case of any health problem, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
–IANS
MT/VC
