Eleocharis dulcis, also known as water chestnut, Chinese chestnut, or singhare, is an aquatic vegetable that thrives in wet marshes and is a common ingredient in northern Indian cuisine. Despite being referred to be a nut in English, water chestnut is in the vegetable family and has long, green leaves that may reach a height of 5 feet and resemble stems.
Native to China, water chestnut is also widely cultivated in Australia, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Water chestnuts, which resemble tiny, circular corms, are a staple in Chinese and Thai cuisine and can be eaten raw, boiled, sweetened, grilled, or canned. The presence of phenolic chemicals is thought to be the reason why water chestnuts, like tiger nuts and lotus roots, continue to be crisp even after being fully cooked.
It has several distinct names in India. Even though it is frequently referred to as Singhara in Hindi and Tamil, it is also known as Paniphal, Singade, Jalfal in Bengali, Shingoda, Singoda in Gujarati, Singade, Gara, Simgara, Simgora in Kannada, Karimpolam, Vankotta, Jalaphalam, Karimpola in Malayalam, Kubyakam, Singada in Telugu, Singada, Gaunaree in Punjabi, Shingoda in Marathi, Panipala and Singada in Oriya.
Water chestnut is an aquatic vegetable that is non-starchy, fat-free, and high in dietary fiber, potassium, manganese, Vitamin B6, riboflavin, and copper. According to the USDA database, it has 3 grams of protein, 23.9 grams of carbs, and 4 grams of fiber.
Health Benefits of Water Chestnut:
Reduce Inflammation
Antioxidants found in water chestnuts, such as fisetin, diosmetin, luteolin, and tectorigenin, can help in the healing of injured cells and the reduction of inflammation. As a result, the body can be shielded from a variety of chronic illnesses. The water chestnut peel is a common source of these antioxidants.
Water Chestnuts Provide Filling Fiber
Water Chestnuts are rich in fiber, and this fiber offers several health advantages. It supports digestion, keeps you feeling full and pleased, and can lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Helps in Weight Loss
Though technically a vegetable, water chestnut is frequently referred to be a fruit and is thus good for weight loss. With only 97 calories per 100 grams, it is a fantastic superfood for anyone trying to lose weight. This fruit’s 74% water content keeps you fuller for longer, eliminating mid-afternoon hunger pains. To reap all of its nutritious advantages, eat it raw, cooked, or even grilled.
Reduces Tumor Development
Ferulic acid, an antioxidant abundant in water chestnuts, has been shown to significantly reduce the growth of some cancer cells. According to studies, eating this fruit is extremely good for those with breast cancer.
Improves Mood
Vegetarian meals seldom contain Vitamin B6, but Singhara is an exception. Overall consumption of this vegetable frequently will help you in boosting your vitamin B6 levels for better health, stress reduction, mood enhancement, and improved sleep.
Reduces the signs of jaundice
Singhara helps in the body’s detoxification process. Jaundice often causes a person to become extremely weak and quickly lose bodily fluids. Singhara helps reduce its symptoms and quicken the healing process.
Makes your skin Glow
Consuming this fruit helps prevent pigmentation and keeps your skin moisturized. Singhara also has anti-aging properties and promotes healthy and radiant skin. Additionally, by eliminating toxins from the body, it promotes improved skin health and aids in blood purification.
This aquatic vegetable has so many nutritional properties along with an appetizing taste which makes it important to add to our diet.
First published on: 03 Dec 2022, 05:01 IST
