6 benefits of eating chayote
By
Gretel Morales - 2022-06-23T16:10:56Z
The chayote is essential in Mexican cuisine, as it is added to broth, soups, and stews. Although it is usually consumed as a vegetable, it has a sweet touch, which helps create unique flavors. In addition to being a healthy and economical food, it also has incredible health benefits. Here we tell you what they are! What is chayote? Chayote is a vegetable that has been consumed in our country since pre-Hispanic times. Today, it is a staple in Mexican kitchens, as it is perfect for making soups, creams, stuffed chayotes, or as a side dish. Another advantage of chayotes is that they are very juicy, easy to cook, and economical, so you can prepare very filling and nutritious dishes for the whole family. To top it off, this ingredient is also rich in vitamin B2, vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium, among other nutrients. You can also read: 7 healthy recipes with chayote6 benefits of eating chayote Discover all the benefits of chayote, from digestion to heart health and blood sugar levels.1. A low-calorie food Chayote is almost 90% water, so it will make you feel full at mealtime. Additionally, it contains only 11 calories per 100 grams, according to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development, making it the perfect ingredient for you if you are on a diet. To top it off, this food contains no cholesterol or fat, so everyone can consume it. 2. Forget about constipation The National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity explains that chayote is rich in dietary fiber, which is not only beneficial for digestion but also helps reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, among other chronic and degenerative diseases. 3. Chayote for the heart Although it may seem hard to believe, this vegetable is an excellent option for taking care of your heart through your diet. The portal WebMD indicates that researchers have found that the phytochemicals present in chayote can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. Additionally, it also mentions that it is rich in antioxidants that help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and protect against free radicals. You can also read: The best recipes with chayote4. The best option during pregnancy Thanks to the fact that chayote contains a good amount of folic acid, it becomes an incredible option during pregnancy. The WebMD portal states that one chayote provides 40% of the recommended daily amount of folic acid. 5. A wonderful option for diabetics If you or a family member suffers from type 2 diabetes, chayote is perfect for mealtime, as according to the WebMD portal, this ingredient increases insulin sensitivity, thus improving blood sugar level control. 6. Chayote is a very nutritious food The National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity mentions that laboratory studies have found the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamins C and E. You can also read: 10 filling vegetable side dishesRecipes with chayote Now that you know that chayote is a great option for everyone, including people with diabetes, pregnant women, and hypertensives, feel encouraged to include it in your meals. Here we give you the best recipes with chayote!Chayote Cream with CornStuffed Chayotes with SalpicónCreamy Stuffed Chayotes with HamStuffed Chayotes with ShrimpStuffed Chayotes with Creamy Tuna SaladBattered Chayotes with Red SauceChayotes with Ham and Cream CheeseChayote GratinChayote Soup with ShrimpChayote SaladQuinoa-Stuffed Gratin ChayotesChayote Patties Stuffed with CheeseCreamy Cucumber, Chayote, Cabbage, Ham, and Celery Salad