Pumpkin, squash, spaghetti squash: slimming advantages of squash
A symbol of autumn, squash and other pumpkins satiate without weighing you down while allowing us to stockpile vitamins at a time when stalls are less diverse. We take advantage of it. Shape, slim and good looks guaranteed!
The cucurbit family is so broad that we tend to confuse the different varieties. To keep things simple, let's break it down into two categories: summer squash, star zucchini, and winter squash with its many stars: squash and company (walnuts, peppers or spaghetti), pumpkins and their close cousin pumpkin, and Halloween squash. Regardless of our culinary preferences! All of these fruits (yes!) that we cook like vegetables have "healthy" qualities, and we have every reason to taste them in the dreary season in order to bring a little color and liveliness to our dishes.
Squash is good for the diet
The big advantage of squash is that it is dense and low in calories. Example: 100 grams of cooked pumpkin = 25 calories. And they're doubly satiating: one, thanks to their fibre, and two because we're used to turning them into phyllottes, gratins, and pancakes...so many nutritious recipes that still are! If you don't abuse cream, butter or cheese in preparations, these dishes remain real good plans for eating well without increasing your calorie bill.
Slimming tip: Super stringy spaghetti squash can replace classic pasta! 100g (uncooked) provides only 27 calories compared to more than 350g "real" pasta. Plus, this vegan pasta is gluten-free. Quick recipe: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and place in the oven for 20 minutes on each side, scraping the pulp with a fork to remove yellow hairs. It remains to be absorbed at will.
Pumpkin makes you "tan" in winter
Another bonus: the orange color of winter squash testifies to their superior concentration of beta-carotene, the vitamin that gives you a healthy-looking melon and peach-like glow in the middle of summer. Example: a pumpkin contains twice as much as a carrot! Health tip: To increase the body's absorption of beta-carotene, it is necessary to include a little fat in recipes (olive oil, nuts, sunflower or pumpkin seeds).
Also beneficial for the balance of the skin (mucous membranes, vision, and the immune system), the vitamin A which pumpkin is especially given. Example: 100 grams of cooked squash provides the equivalent of 42.71% of the Nutritional Reference Values (NRV). Vitamin C should not be outdone: among all its counterparts, butternut squash has the maximum rate. Brief reminder: It's an essential winter vitamin because it strengthens the immune system and helps prevent minor illnesses caused by a cold (common cold, etc.).
Pumpkin boosts energy
Thanks in part to potassium. Butternut squash and pumpkin provide a healthy dose. Example: The equivalent of a cup of cooked pumpkin meat provides more than a banana, which is an industry standard. It is especially preferred when exercising because potassium helps with muscle contraction. Good to know: A deficiency in this mineral can lead to muscle cramps, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Don't like squash? Eat the seeds as a snack or for a cheese boost... Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein (about 20%), antioxidants, vitamins, minerals (magnesium, calcium, iron, etc.) and fiber. However, be careful, they contain calories: 100 grams represents about 450 kcal. But they have a low glycemic index (and therefore no peak blood sugar) and a high oleic acid content increases good cholesterol.