Spotlight on Zucchini
Do you end up with an abundance of zucchini in your garden each year? If so, you may be wondering what to do with all that zucchini, so today’s post is dedicated to discussing the health benefits of zucchini and how you can incorporate it into your diet to ensure none of your garden-fresh zucchini goes to waste this summer.
Nutrition
According to the USDA, 1 cup of chopped zucchini contains:
21 calories
0 grams fat
4 grams carbohydrate
1 gram fiber
1.5 grams protein
Health benefits
Like other non-starchy vegetables, zucchini is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. Zucchini is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese, which are important for maintaining healthy vision. Zucchini also contains fiber and potassium which can help prevent or improve heart conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Additionally, zucchini contains the antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, which may provide protection against certain types of cancer. Antioxidants protect the body from free radical damage, which increases the risk for certain types of cancer and chronic diseases like heart disease or diabetes.
Because zucchini is low in carbohydrates, it is an excellent choice for those with diabetes or prediabetes because it will not raise blood sugar levels. It is also helpful for those wanting to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
How to eat zucchini
Zucchini is an easy vegetable to incorporate into almost any meal. It can be eaten raw, steamed, roasted, or grilled. Zucchini noodles are all the rage these days, which are a lower carb and lower calorie alternative to traditional noodles. Raw zucchini can be added to salads or dipped in hummus. If you prefer your zucchini cooked, it can be roasted, steamed, or sauteed. Zucchini can even be added to sweet breads or muffins; the possibilities are endless! Here are some of my favorite recipes that incorporate zucchini:
As you can see, zucchini is a very versatile food. It can be eaten raw, cooked, or added to baked goods. What are your favorite ways to eat zucchini?
