Struggling to stay hydrated this winter? This water-rich food can help, says a nutritionist

Water chestnut helps reduce water retention and supports your sluggish thyroid. (Picture Credit: Canva)

With the onset of winter, it is not unusual to find yourself struggling to meet your daily water requirement. While the body’s signals for thirst decrease, it is even more important to keep yourself hydrated, as the cold weather strips moisture from the skin, making it look dull and dry.

Nutritionist Pooja Makhija took to her Instagram account and shared a food that she claimed can change things this season. “Finding it hard to drink more water as the weather gets cooler? What if I told you about a food that is almost 80% water? It helps you reduce water retention and supports your sluggish thyroid.”

She brought out a tray of water chestnuts, popularly known as singhara in India, which are available in plenty this season, and listed their many benefits, including improving thyroid function, gut health, and skin health.

Also read: Sleeping for less than 6 hours every night? Doctors have a warning that you must not ignore

Benefits of consuming water chestnuts

Reduces water retention and bloating: Pooja called them a water-rich food, loaded with potassium, even higher than a banana. She added that their consumption helps reduce water retention and bloating.

Supports thyroid function: They contain potassium, iodine, and manganese, which support the utilisation of your thyroid hormone, though not its production.

Take a look at the post:

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pooja Makhija (@poojamakhija)

Protects from the effects of air pollution: “It is rich in ferulic acid, which is an antioxidant, and we all need antioxidants given the poor quality of air we are breathing,” she said.

Also read: From walking with a stick to now doing pilates at 86, know Salman Khan's step mother's fitness secret

Improves skin health: It also supports collagen formation and is therefore great for your skin.

How to consume water chestnuts?

She suggested water chestnuts can be turned into a gluten-free, allergy-free atta, from which snacks can be made. They can be munched plain as a fruit or enjoyed in crunchy salads or sautéed veggies. She hailed it as a snack that keeps you light, hydrated, and less bloated. They are available in plenty this season.

FAQs on water chestnuts:

1. What are water chestnuts?

Water chestnuts are crunchy, mildly sweet aquatic vegetables that grow underwater, commonly used in Asian cuisine.

2. Are water chestnuts the same as chestnuts?

No. Despite the name, water chestnuts are not nuts. They are edible tubers and are safe even for people with nut allergies.

3. What are the health benefits of water chestnuts?

They are low in calories, rich in antioxidants, high in fiber, and good for hydration due to their high water content.

4. Do water chestnuts help in weight management?

Yes. Their fiber content helps keep you full longer, which may support weight control.

5. Can people eat water chestnuts raw?

Yes. They can be eaten raw, boiled, roasted, or added to salads and stir-fries.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.