Despite being called chestnuts, water chestnuts are not nuts at all. They are aquatic tuber vegetables that grow in marshes, ponds, paddy fields and shallow lakes

Water chestnuts are native to Southeast Asia, Southern China, Taiwan, Australia, Africa and many islands in the Indian and Pacific oceans.

They are harvested when the corm, or bulb, turns a dark brown color.

They have a crisp, white flesh that can be enjoyed raw or cooked and are a common addition to Asian dishes such as stir-fries, chop suey, curries and salads.

Here are five science-backed benefits of water chestnuts:

1. Are Very Nutritious yet Low in Calories.
2. Contain High Amounts of Disease-Fighting Antioxidants.
3. May Help Lower Your Blood Pressure and Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease.
4. Promote Weight Loss by Keeping You Fuller for Longer With Fewer Calories.
5. Could Reduce the Risk of Oxidative Stress and Help Fight Cancer Growth.

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