Health Benefits of Squash

As we head deeper in autumn, different varieties of squash are everywhere. Butternut squash being perhaps the most common variety, but there are lot of different and interesting options. I would throw pumpkins into the same category as the taste and health benefits are very similar. Plus if you have kids you will be buying pumpkins anyway so it makes sense to use the product for nutrition as well as carving! Here are the health benefits of squash;

1/ Supports the immune system

Squash are rick in beta carotene which aids the natural function of the immune system. It is also rich in Vitamin A which helps to fight infections.

2/ Helps Digestion

Squash are high in fibre which studies have shown reduces your risk of heart disease, diabetes and bowel cancer. It can also help with constipation and reduce the bloated feeling a lot of people live with on a daily basis.

3/ Weight Loss

Following on from the above point, a high fibre diet will keep you fuller for longer and therefore means you are likely to eat less a whole.

4/ Nutrient Dense

As well as beta carotene, squash is rich in vitamin c, zinc and sodium. Zinc has been shown as a powerful nutrient to reduce the risk of getting ill. All of the above nutrients have been lined to reduced risk of osteoporosis.

5/ Eye Health

Squash contain phytonutrients which protect eye health. Beta carotene also plays a role in healthy eye cell renewal.

What can I do with it?

There are loads of options here. My ‘go to’ is a spiced squash soup, which I have a separate blog on, with the recipe. But you can steam it and mash it, as a healthier substitute for mashed potato. You could cut it into chunks and roast it. Or dice it up and throw it into pretty much any dish, e.g. a stew or risotto. Experiment and see what you like.

Conclusion – Health Benefits of Squash

As you can see there are a lot of important health benefits of squash. They are also in season and readily available right now. Which means in terms of flavour and quality of product you are getting it at its best. There are also pretty cheap, so grab one and give it a go!