5 Health Benefits From The Chayote Squash
CHAYOTE – In this article, we will learn about some of the amazing health benefits you could get from the Chayote.
Its origins could be traced back to central Mexico and several parts of Latin America. However, it has grown all over the world.
The Chayote is packed with a whole array of nutrients as well as antioxidants that provide health benefits. Here are some of the benefits you should definitely know about.
Rich in nutrients – Just a single Chayote could offer you the following nutrients
- Calories: 39
- Carbs: 9 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams — 14% of the Reference
- Daily Intake (RDI)
- Vitamin C: 26% of the RDI
- Vitamin B9 (folate): 47% of the RDI
- Vitamin K: 10% of the RDI
- Vitamin B6: 8% of the RDI
- Manganese: 19% of the RDI
- Copper: 12% of the RDI
- Zinc: 10% of the RDI
- Potassium: 7% of the RDI
- Magnesium: 6% of the RDI
It contains potent antioxidants – according to an article by Healthline, the Chayote contains quercetin, myricetin, morin, and kaempferol.
Research shows that myricetin carries strong anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, and anti-inflammatory properties. This squash also contains vitamin C which is also an antioxidant.
Promotes heart health – Consuming Chayote may also improve a handful of heart disease risk factors. These include:
- High blood pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Poor blood flow
This squash also contains a good amount of fiber, about 14% of the recommended daily intake. Fiber-rich foods are associated with reduced risk of heart disease.
Slows signs of aging – Researches have discovered that consuming foods high in antioxidants could slow the aging process.
One of the main theories of aging revolves around molecules called free radicals that cause damage to cells. Taking in antioxidants protect your cells from free radical damage.
Provide anti-cancer effects – Test tube studies have noted that certain compounds in Chayote could slow the progression of some cancer cells. These include cervical cancers and leukemia.
Although results are promising, there is still more research needed to have a solid conclusion.
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