Benefits Of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a member of the gourd family which includes other members like melon, pumpkin, and cucumber. It is generally considered to be a fruit as it contains seeds. When the fruit is cut through its pale, beige yellow hard skin, you can discover the vibrant flesh which is quite denser than other members of the same family. The fruit is extremely rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. This luscious and juicy fruit is a perfect add-on to an autumn meal. There are numerous advantages of including this fruit in your diet a few of which are:

1.Boosts up the body immunity.
The deep, golden color of the fruit indicates that it is full of carotenes. This is a kind of an antioxidant which help to reduce the danger of occurrence of many life-threatening conditions. They enhance the general immunity of the body to fight diseases.

2.Provides fiber to the body.
Addition of fiber to the diet helps easing the entire digestive process. This is because fiber induces proper bowel movement and keeps the body away from digestive disorders like constipation. Fiber is also good for the health of the gastrointestinal system.

3.Low in fats.
The low content of fats in the food helps to maintain body weight. It also lower the risk of fatal diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

4.Provides essential potassium to the body.
The fruit is rich in potassium-a mineral that is essentially required by the body. Electrolyte potassium, when added to the body through natural sources help to reduce the blood pressure. It is also beneficial for the health of the cardiovascular and the nervous systems.

5.Relives pain in arthritis.
Natural intake of potassium helps to reduce stiffness and pain in joint due to arthritis. It is thus identified as a natural pain reliever. The consumed potassium is stored in the body muscles and helps to relieve pain due to headaches and migraines. Potassium is also believed to cure cuts and bruises.

6.Benefits for developing fetus.
Butternut squash contains rich amounts of folate, which is extremely important for the development of brain, spinal-cord and other parts of the nervous system.

7.Provide Omega-3 Fatty Acids to the bodyThe fruit is extremely rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids- a compound that helps prevent strokes and heart attacks in people suffering from coronary artery disease. Intake of this compound lowers the risk of heart diseases, arthritis and cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.


8.Helps in better absorption of calcium.Butternut squash contains good quantities of mineral magnesium. Regular intake of magnesium in your diet helps improves the absorption of calcium in the body, thus building strong teeth and bones.

Butternut squash has a lengthy shelf life and can stay fresh for about three months when it is stored at a temperature of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.