Squash can make a great addition to a healthy diet. All squash varieties are rich in essential nutrients and disease-fighting components.
- All varieties of squash are low in calories, making it a good dietary staple for those who want to lose weight.
- The high Vitamin C content of squash helps the body fight infections.
- The high water content of summer squash varietals can help protect against dehydration.
- Squash contains high levels of carotene, which help protect the skin against damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.
What are the Benefits of Butternut Squash?
- Butternut squash contains high levels of fiber, which aids in proper digestion.
- The high level of Vitamin A found in butternut squash can help protect against the debilitating effects of emphysema and other lung disorders attributed to smoking cigarettes.
- It has anti-inflammatory attributes.
What are the Specific Health Benefits of Acorn Squash?
- Acorn squash belongs to the winter squash variety.
- It has a high level of folate that helps prevent birth defects in babies when taken by pregnant women.
- Folate is also known as an essential mineral that helps reduce the risk of colon cancer, lung cancer and heart attacks.
- Acorn squash is a fat-free, low calorie food ideal for those who want to lose weight.
- It contains 18% of a person’s recommended daily dose of Vitamin A.
- Acorn squash is an excellent source of magnesium and thiamine, which are essential for proper neurological functioning.
What are the Other Benefits of Squash Vegetable Varieties?
- The high magnesium content of all squash varieties can help offset the risk of heart disease, thus promoting cardiovascular health.
- Summer squash (pattypan, zucchini, and yellow squash) can alleviate the symptoms of inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and rheumatism.
- Winter squash (acorn, butternut, and pumpkin) can help fight lung cancer.