apollo

Singhada Benefits

Explore the health benefits of singhada (water chestnut), a low-calorie, nutrient-rich superfood that supports digestion, heart health, weight loss, and more. Learn how to include it in your diet safely.

reviewerImg

Written by

Last updated on 13th Jul, 2025

Introduction

Singhada, also known as water chestnut, is a popular aquatic vegetable commonly consumed in India and other parts of Asia. Despite being called a “nut,” it is actually a fruit that grows underwater in ponds and marshes. With a hard outer shell and crunchy white flesh inside, singhada is naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and rich in fibre—making it a wholesome addition to any diet.

Whether eaten raw, boiled, roasted, or as flour, this mildly sweet superfood is packed with essential nutrients and offers numerous health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways singhada can support your health and how you can easily include it in your meals.

Nutritional Value of Singhada (Water Chestnut)

Singhada is loaded with essential nutrients, including:

  • Fibre – Aids digestion and prevents constipation.

  • Potassium – Supports heart health and regulates blood pressure.

  • Vitamin B6 – Boosts brain function and immunity.

  • Antioxidants – Helps fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

  • Low Glycemic Index – Suitable for diabetics as it doesn’t spike blood sugar levels.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Asique Perwaiz, Andrology

Dr. Asique Perwaiz

Andrology

7 Years • BUMS, Unani , Sexologist, Ayurvedic Medicine

Kolkata

MS Haque Clinic, Kolkata

500

1200

No Booking Fees

Health Benefits of Singhada

Singhada offers a range of health benefits that can support your overall wellness naturally.

1. Supports Weight Loss

Singhada is low in calories and high in fibre, which keeps you full for longer and prevents overeating. It’s a great snack for those looking to shed extra pounds.

2. Good for Heart Health

The potassium in singhada helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart diseases. Its low sodium content further supports cardiovascular health.

3. Aids Digestion

The high fibre content promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. It also helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

4. Boosts Immunity

Rich in antioxidants and vitamin B6, singhada strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight infections and diseases.

5. Helps Control Diabetes

Singhada has a low glycemic index, meaning it releases sugar slowly into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood glucose levels.

6. Improves Bone Health

It contains essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which contribute to stronger bones and prevent osteoporosis.

7. Hydrates the Body

Since singhada grows in water, it has high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated, especially in hot weather.

8. Good for Skin and Hair

The antioxidants in singhada help reduce skin inflammation and promote a healthy glow. It also strengthens hair follicles, reducing hair fall.

How to Include Singhada in Your Diet

Singhada can be consumed in various ways:

  • Raw: Peel and eat it as a crunchy snack.

  • Boiled or Roasted: Enhances its natural sweetness.

  • Singhada Flour (Water Chestnut Flour): Used in fasting recipes and gluten-free cooking.

  • Curries and Stir-fries: Adds a unique texture to dishes.

Singhada Chaat

Here’s a simple recipe for enjoying singhada:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peeled and chopped Singhada

  • 1 boiled potato (optional)

  • 1 chopped tomato

  • 1 chopped cucumber

  • 1 tsp roasted cumin powder

  • 1 tsp chaat masala

  • Lemon juice to taste

  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Method:

1. Mix all the chopped ingredients in a bowl.

2. Add cumin powder, chaat masala, and lemon juice.

3. Toss well and garnish with coriander.

4. Serve fresh as a healthy snack!

Precautions and Side Effects

While singhada is generally safe, some people should consume it in moderation:

  • Kidney Patients: High potassium levels may not be suitable for those with kidney issues.

  • Allergies: Rarely, some individuals may be allergic to water chestnuts.

Always wash singhada thoroughly before eating to remove any dirt or contaminants.

When to Consult a Doctor?

If you experience any unusual symptoms like bloating, itching, or digestive discomfort after eating singhada, consult a healthcare professional. People with existing medical conditions should seek advice before adding it to their diet.

Final Thoughts

Singhada is a powerhouse of nutrients that offers multiple health benefits—from aiding digestion to boosting immunity. Including it in your diet is an easy and delicious way to enhance your overall well-being.

You can book a consultation with a nutritionist on Apollo 24|7 to get expert guidance on including superfoods like singhada in your diet.

Consult Top Ayurvedic Practitioner

Dr. Asique Perwaiz, Andrology

Dr. Asique Perwaiz

Andrology

7 Years • BUMS, Unani , Sexologist, Ayurvedic Medicine

Kolkata

MS Haque Clinic, Kolkata

500

1200

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Asique Perwaiz, Andrology

Dr. Asique Perwaiz

Andrology

7 Years • BUMS, Unani , Sexologist, Ayurvedic Medicine

Kolkata

MS Haque Clinic, Kolkata

500

1200

No Booking Fees

Dr. Shiv Prakash Singh, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Shiv Prakash Singh

Ayurveda Practitioner

17 Years • BAMS

Dumdum

Vedhive Ayurveda Clinic, Dumdum

500

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chandan Kumar Yadav, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Chandan Kumar Yadav

Ayurveda Practitioner

8 Years • BAMS

West Bengal

sriveda, West Bengal

700

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma

Ayurveda Practitioner

28 Years • BAMS, MD Rasashastra & Bhaishajya Kalpana

Chandigarh

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma, Chandigarh

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sasanka Chowdhury, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Sasanka Chowdhury

Ayurveda Practitioner

13 Years • BAMS

Kolkata

Sriveda, Kolkata

1000

1000

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Ayurvedic Practitioner

Dr. Asique Perwaiz, Andrology

Dr. Asique Perwaiz

Andrology

7 Years • BUMS, Unani , Sexologist, Ayurvedic Medicine

Kolkata

MS Haque Clinic, Kolkata

500

1200

No Booking Fees

Dr. Shiv Prakash Singh, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Shiv Prakash Singh

Ayurveda Practitioner

17 Years • BAMS

Dumdum

Vedhive Ayurveda Clinic, Dumdum

500

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Chandan Kumar Yadav, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Chandan Kumar Yadav

Ayurveda Practitioner

8 Years • BAMS

West Bengal

sriveda, West Bengal

700

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma

Ayurveda Practitioner

28 Years • BAMS, MD Rasashastra & Bhaishajya Kalpana

Chandigarh

Dr. Pandit Ajay Sharma, Chandigarh

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sasanka Chowdhury, Ayurveda Practitioner

Dr. Sasanka Chowdhury

Ayurveda Practitioner

13 Years • BAMS

Kolkata

Sriveda, Kolkata

1000

1000

No Booking Fees

More articles from General Medical Consultation