Chayote Squash is also known as mirliton and choko. This plant is edible and belongs to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. Chayote Squash is considered one of several foods introduced to the Old World during the Columbian Exchange. Most people are not aware that the chayote squash fruit is edible but this plant’s root, stem, seeds, and leaves are edible as well. Usually, chayote fruit is used for cooking.
While raw chayote can be added to salads or salsas. It is marinated with lemon or lime juice. Chayote squash has a unique mild savory flavor. This plant has a nutrition profile that is loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whether an individual consumes squash raw or cooked they will get a good source of vitamin C.
Health Benefits Of Chayote Squash
1. Manage Hypertension
Chayote Squash contains potassium and alkaloids. These exhibit diuretic properties that can help kidneys remove excess fluid and salt from the body. Eventually, it reduces blood pressure. As per research the chayote squash extract or juice was found to reduce hypertension. If you are pregnant and want to consume squash juice for hypertension then make sure to consult your doctor first.
2. Prevent Kidney Stones
Chayote squash is loaded with potassium. According to studies potassium exhibits diuretic properties that help eliminate the extra fluids in the kidneys and prevent the formation of kidney stones. Consuming juice prepared from chayote squash fruit or leaves can help with the same.
3. Promote Skin Health
Chayote squash is loaded with vitamin C. As per studies, regular consumption of chayote squash may minimize acne and dark spots. Vitamin C is said to be a potent antioxidant that supports many beneficial effects on the skin.
4. Slows Down Aging
Chayote squash has the ability to reduce oxidative stress. Which can negatively affect the cells in the body. That makes the skin look dull and pale. Consuming chayote squash reduces the symptoms of metabolic symptoms. By protecting the body from cell damage, and making the skin glow from within.
5. Good for Gut Health
An excellent digestive function means that you are healthy. Consuming chayote for the best absorption of nutrients increases digestion. It ensures regular detoxification. Chayote squash contains an adequate amount of flavonoids. It is a plant compound that can prevent constipation, maintain the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria, control intestinal movements, and optimize various functions of the digestive tract.
6. Prevents Anemia
Iron and vitamin B2 deficiency can lead to anemia or red blood deficiency in an individual. However, Chayote squash contains ingredients that can produce red blood cells and hemoglobin in the body. That can eventually prevent anemia.
Chayote Squash Nutrition Facts
100 g of chayote squash contains the following nutrition facts:
- Calories: 19 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Sugars: fiber 1.5 g
- Fat: 0.12 g
- Protein: 0.80 g
- Vitamin B6: 0.076 mg
- Folate B9: 93 mg
- Vitamin C: 7.7 mg
- Vitamin E: 0.12 mg
- Vitamin K: 4.1 mg
- Calcium: 17 mg
- Iron: 0.34 mg
- Magnesium: 12 mg
- Phosphorus: 18 mg
- Potassium: 125 mg
- Zinc: 0.74 mg