Health benefits of zucchini

Zucchini is also known as tori. It is an exotic vegetable which has recently became popular in India. This vegetable can impart a mild yet delicious taste to a variety of dishes. Moreover, the soft and crunchy feel of zucchini makes it easier and tastier to eat in its uncooked form as well. Apart from its taste, zucchini proves to be beneficial to health in a variety of ways too. These are as follows:

1.    Helps to shed those extra pounds

Zucchini is exceptionally low in its calorie content (2 calories per thin slice of zucchini), but laden with a high amount of water. Hence, consumption of a moderate amount of this vegetable helps to satisfy the craving and makes you feel full. This property makes the vegetable a perfect food for those who want to reduce their weight, without following a crash diet plan.

2.    Restores urinogenital function in men

Scientists have identified that some components of zucchini may help to treat prostate enlargements (benign prostatic hypertrophy) and thus can restore normal sexual and urinary functions in men.

3.    Keeps a healthy heart

Zucchini is rich in magnesium that helps to keep a check on high blood pressure and thus keeps the heart healthy. Additionally, this exotic vegetable is a rich source of vitamin C and beta carotene which prevents the oxidation of cholesterol thereby reducing the chances of cholesterol deposition within the arterial walls. Reduced cholesterol deposition in the blood vessels cuts down the risk of heart attacks to a great extent.

4.    Good for diabetics

Being a rich source of dietary fibre with low carbohydrate content, this fascinating vegetable provides a healthy and tasty option for diabetes patients.

5.    Fight against various diseases

Apart from its fibre and mineral content, zucchini is loaded with some other essential constituents like vitamin C, beta carotene and folic acid. Beta carotene and vitamin C help to promote healthy vision and protect against scurvy and sclerosis respectively. Researchers have identified that these components of zucchini may also provide protection against colon cancer. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of this vegetable may also provide some relief from various inflammatory diseases like osteoarthritis and asthma.

6.    Keeps the body hydrated

95% of zucchini is packed with water, which can provide sufficient hydration in the body. Hence, a greater intake of this vegetable is suggested, especially during summers.

7.    Good for pregnant women

As mentioned earlier, zucchini has high folic acid content. Folic acid helps in normal wellbeing and growth of the fetus. Hence, this vegetable is frequently recommended for pregnant women.

8.    Delays aging process

The yellow zucchini is loaded with phenolic antioxidants like beta carotene, lutein and xeta xanthin, which help to delay the ageing process. It may also fight against other diseases that occur due to the over-production of free radicals.

 Tips: Zucchini should not be overcooked. The best and healthiest way to consume this vegetable is to incorporate it in salads. Additionally, you can also add zucchini to a pasta dish or include it in a stir-fry.

Image source: Getty images

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Reference:

1. Sommerburg O,Keunen JE, Bird AC, Van Kuijk  FJ. Fruits and vegetables that are sources for lutein and zeaxanthin: the macular pigment in human eyes. Br J Ophthalmol. 1998 Aug; 82(8):907-10.

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