In this blog, I wanted to spotlight the health benefits of butternut squash. I am not sure if you are a fan of squash, but if you are, this variety is a tasty one to try or add to your diet. Butternut squash is enjoyed by many people this time of year, as squash are abundant in the fall. Butternut squash has a similar flavor and texture to that of the pumpkin, but is sweeter. While most people consider butternut squash a vegetable, it technically is a fruit. Like zucchini, butternut squash are easy to grow and are also loaded with a variety of antioxidants and nutrients that help keep your body healthy. Some nutrients found in butternut squash include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium and magnesium. Butternut squash is also high in iron, fiber and calcium. Butternut squash has other health benefits, as well. 

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash 

Helps Boost Immunity

Like other types of orange-colored fruit and vegetables, butternut squash is rich in vitamin C and beta carotene, which is needed for vitamin A production. Both are needed for good immune system function. During the fall and winter months, it is important to eat plenty of foods rich in vitamins and minerals that help boost immunity to help fight off colds, flu and infections.

Helps Promote Good Eye Sight

Butternut squash helps promote good eye sight. Butternut squash is rich in a variety of antioxidants and contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for good eye health. Butternut squash is also high in vitamin C and vitamin A, which helps protect your body in a variety of ways, including protecting your eyes from the damaging effects of ultra violet rays from the sun. 

Rich In Fiber And May Aid In Weight Loss

Butternut squash is rich in fiber and contains both insoluble and soluble fiber. Studies show that soluble fiber may help aid in weight loss, as it makes you feel full longer, so you tend not to eat as much. The insoluble fiber helps with digestion and helps promote regularity. Butternut squash is also a low glycemic food and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

May Help Protect Against Heart Disease

Butternut squash may help protect you from heart disease. While eating plenty of fruit and vegetables is important for overall health, eating yellow and orange colored vegetables in particular has been shown to help protect against heart disease. Butternut squash are rich in antioxidants, as well as carotenoids that help protect the heart. Carotenoids help reduce inflammation and can help lower blood pressure. Make sure you include plenty of bright colored vegetables in your diet, including butternut squash to help prevent, heart disease, cancer and other illnesses.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Source:

¹Kubala, Jillian. “Is Butternut Squash Good For You? Calories, Carbs and More.” 17, Jan. 2019. Healthine.com. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/butternut-squash

²“Health Benefits of Butternut Squash.” WebMD.com.  https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/butternut-squash-health-benefits#2

P. S. If you are interested in reading more about healthful eating and living a healthy lifestyle, you might want to check out my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living. Click here to learn more or purchase.