Benefits

Chestnut is both a substantial and nutritious food. Nutritional elements may change depending on the ecological conditions the tree is grown. It contains high amount of fatsugar and protein. It is at the same time a good source of minerals like potassium, phosphor, magnesium, chlorine, calcium, iron, sodium and vitamins like B1, B2 and C. 100 grams of chestnut supplies 160 kcal.

It is an excellent health and energy booster for kids especially in negative conditions of the winter season. It supports recovery phase as it helps you unwind and strengthens your body. It helps in acceleration of blood circulation and lowering of cholesterol level. Moreover it is good for diarrhea.

Keep in mind 

Candied chestnut is way too much sugared so don't give it to the little ones. Chestnut flour can be made at home and it will be a little sweet so you can use it to cook home-made healthy desserts. According to research, chestnut flour is a good alternative that can used to make desserts like pudding and even in soups to prevent lactose allergy caused by cow's milk. 

Scratch the top part of the chestnuts deeply with a knife and don't forget to wash and dry it before cooking. You can cook it on grill, on stoves and even on barbecue. 15 minute cooking at 200 degrees in oven and chestnuts are ready to eat. You can also roast or boil them. Chestnuts would make great side dishes for meats with a little spicing. Try it, you will not be sorry!

Some sources say that boiling and drinking chestnut shells reduces fever and calms down your nerves.

Warning

Chestnut is an allergenic  food. Chestnut allergy occurs not only when you eat it but sometimes even touching it may cause symptoms to arise. If your little gourmet is an hypersensitive or your family has a history of allergy, don't rush to introduce chestnut to your baby. Try it in small portions at the beginning after consulting your doctor. And before feeding him chestnuts first rub it against his skin and wait a couple of hours to observe any reactions. This is not an absolute method of diagnosis but you may try it as a precaution.

Chestnut is used as raw material in a lot of packed foods. So if your baby is hypersensitive, always check the label of any packed product you buy.

Nutritional value per 100 grams of fresh chestnut:

Calorie ( kcal) : 160
Carbohydrate (g) : 34
Sugar (g) : 9.6
Protein (g) : 3.2
Fat (g) : 1.8
Sodium (mg) : 9
Potassium (mg) : 395