The Surprising Health Benefits of Yellow Squash Nutrition
Yellow squash, also known as summer squash, is a versatile vegetable that’s delicious and nutritious. But did you know that it also offers some serious health benefits? In this article, we’ll explore the surprising health benefits of yellow squash nutrition and why you should consider adding it to your diet.
What is Yellow Squash?
Yellow squash is a type of summer squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It’s an oblong-shaped vegetable that can be bright yellow or a pale, creamy color. The flesh inside is firm, with a mild, slightly sweet taste. Yellow squash is low in calories, with only about 30 calories per cup, making it an excellent choice for weight loss and a healthy diet.
Loaded with Nutrients
Despite its low calorie count, yellow squash is loaded with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are crucial for eye health and immune function. It’s also rich in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Yellow squash is also a good source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and keep you feeling full for longer periods.
Helps Protect Against Cancer
Yellow squash contains powerful antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and lutein, which help protect your cells from damage. Studies have shown that these antioxidants can help reduce the risk of cancer, particularly lung and prostate cancer. Yellow squash also contains phenolic compounds, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
Supports Heart Health
The nutrients in yellow squash can do wonders for your heart health. For instance, potassium can help lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. The fiber in yellow squash can also help lower cholesterol levels, which further protects against heart disease. Additionally, yellow squash contains magnesium, which can help regulate heart rhythm and support healthy blood vessels.
Supports Digestive Health
Yellow squash is an excellent source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and keep you feeling full for longer periods. The fiber in yellow squash helps move food through your digestive system, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, the fiber in yellow squash can help feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting a healthy microbiome.
Easy to Prepare and Delicious
Yellow squash is remarkably easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. You can sauté it, roast it, grill it, or bake it, and it pairs well with a variety of seasonings and flavors. Yellow squash is also incredibly versatile: you can use it to make soups, stews, casseroles, and salads, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Conclusion
Yellow squash is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that offers a host of surprising health benefits. It’s low in calories, rich in essential nutrients, and packed with powerful antioxidants that help protect against cancer and support heart health. Additionally, yellow squash is an excellent source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full. So the next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to add some yellow squash to your cart and reap all of these amazing health benefits!
