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Butternut Squash is a popular seasonal vegetable that is loaded with nutrients and many health benefits. This squash is part of the gourd family like pumpkins, melons and cucumbers. It is technically a fruit because it contains seeds.
Butternut Squash is rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants. The tangerine hue of its flesh signals an abundance of nutrients. This squash is low in fat and calories and is high in fiber.
Benefits:
- One of the best sources of four carotenoids: Alpha-Carotene, Beta-Carotene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin, which offer a multitude of benefits from cancer prevention and protection from heart disease.
- Promotes healthy skin and eyes with Vitamin A.
- Protects the body from free radicals and prevents damage to healthy cells with Antioxidants.
- Helps to regulate the digestive tract and lowers cholesterol with Fiber.
- Improves bone health with a significant amount of Potassium and Calcium.
- Boosts the immune system with Vitamin C and Zinc.
- Helps to reduce depression with Folate.
- Promotes proper function of nervous and immune systems with Vitamin B6.
- Promotes vision health with Lutein.
Butternut Squash can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Since it is loaded with nutrients and has so many health benefits it is worth trying to work it into your diet this fall and winter. Butternut Squash can be used to replace pumpkin and sweet potatoes in any recipe. An added benefit of roasting the squash, your house will be filled with its nutty, buttery smell, making your house smell like fall.
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