Health Benefits of Squash
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Dec 08, 2020 • 3 min Read
Squash, also known as kalabasa, is one of the most delicious, versatile, and healthiest vegetables in the world. It contains numerous vitamins such as C and E, iron, folate, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial to the body – all of which strengthen your immune system.
Squash is also known as one of the oldest cultivated crops on earth, can be used to make smoothies, baked goods, soups, salads, and more.
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of squash, from Natural Food Series:
1. Diabetes Management
Many types of squash are a sound source of dietary fiber that helps regulate the sugar levels in the body. Pectin is a polysaccharide that controls blood sugar levels and is found in abundance in squash.
2. Anti-Inflammatory
Squash contains fatty acids such as omega 3 and carotenoids – zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene that are highly anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory effects of squash are beneficial for all types of arthritis. Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory components of squash specifically target duodenal and gastric ulcers. The benefits of squash are abundant for heart conditions and type-2 diabetes.
3. Fights Infections
The seeds in various types of squash are also edible and have various health benefits. They are found to have antimicrobial and anti-parasitic properties that protect the body from infections and parasites such as ringworm and tapeworms. Seasonal infections can cause a lot of damage to the immune system; its soups can be very beneficial and clearing out the infections and restoring health.
4. Healthy Lungs
It is a potent source of vitamin A which has been observed to cause a significant reduction in emphysema, especially for those who are constantly exposed to smoking and carcinogens cigarettes. The antioxidant beta-cryptoxanthin helps fight diseases such as lung cancer and helps prevent lung damage caused by free radicals. Eating vitamin A rich diet can be the answer to many lung-related diseases.
5. Neural Defects
Adding squash to the diet can be extremely beneficial in negating neural tube defects.
6. Healthy Vision
It contains beta-carotene which is a component of the abundant vitamin A found in squash. The body is built to absorb as much vitamin A as it needs from food, and squash can almost fulfill the daily requirement in your body. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that protects the eyes from oxidative damage and prevents degenerative stress. The retina is extremely susceptible to damage caused by free radicals; beta-carotene helps build a barrier that protects the retina. Regular eating of squash can help protect the eye from forming cataracts, vision issues, and glaucoma.
7. Prevents Anemia
Squash can provide an adequate amount to prevent iron deficiency in the body and the onset of anemia. It is also rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, copper, and folate – essential to build the blood count in the body and protect from a disease resulting from iron deficiency.
8. Improved Bone Density
It is a good source of calcium and provides up to 22mg per 100 grams of serving. Also, it’s an excellent source of potassium and magnesium that promotes bone density. Loss of bone density is a given with the progression of age and can be the cause of multiple diseases.
9. Digestion
Squash is rich in dietary fiber which helps regulate smooth bowel movements and maintain a healthy digestive system.
From the health benefits of squash mentioned, it’s clear that this amazing vegetable is a healthy choice to be part of your diet. Go enjoy the taste and benefits of squash!
Stay healthy and safe!
