Calabaza

Scientific name: (Cucurbita sp)

In Costa Rica, the most common species Cucurbita moschata is better known as Creole squash. Because it is the product of open pollination, have male and female flowers, the fruit has a wide variety of shapes, sizes, color and texture of the shell.

Although it is a very versatile to prepare various types of vegetable dishes, people are limited to consume the fruit and wasted the rest of the components of the plant and flowers, quelites (young leaves) and seeds. They are edible and have a high nutrient content. For example, seeds provide calcium, iron and magnesium; and flowers, antioxidants and potassium.

The color, thickness and texture of the flesh of the squash can be used as indicators of nutritional value. So the intense or orange pumpkin yellow flesh have a higher concentration of carotenoids, plant compounds that facilitate the absorption of vitamin A. On the other hand, a ” floury” squash have a higher content carbohydrate.

Do not leave it in secret … share it !!

Goodbye cholesterol, glucose, lipid, and triglyceride

• Consumers lose much portion of squash, people do not eat flowers, quelites and seeds. The tender squash is very popular, but the other varieties are forgotten.
• One of the biggest myths about squash. “Squash has created a bad name for fattening and because of it is not recommended in a diet to lose weight. But a portion of squash contains half carbohydrate portion than the cereal or flour “.
• Chopped flowers can also be added to rice or stews for color and flavor.
• Other components such as seeds can be consumed as a nutritious snack.

Benefits:

Old squash

Fiber fights constipation and helps control cholesterol levels and blood glucose.

For its sweet taste and texture is ideal to introduce babies solid food.

Seeds rich in nutrients: calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, folic acid, essential fatty acids like Omega 3 and cucurbitina.

Benefits: cucurbitina in the seeds of squash has an antiparasitic effect. Fatty acids are essential for the functioning of the nervous system. Zinc is an ally of the growth andhealth of the skin.

Tender squash

Nutrients: Dietary fiber, potassium, antioxidants, vitamin B.

Benefits: Antioxidants are compounds that protect against diseases like cancer and act against premature aging. The fiber allows proper digestive transit.

Flowers

Nutrients: Provides antioxidants, potassium and folic acid. Should be consumed which is called “male flower”.

Benefits: Folic acid is essential for the growth and reproduction of cells, especially red blood cells. It helps combat anemia.

Milkweed

Nutrients: Calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, niacin, antioxidant.

Benefits: Are the young leaves. Calcium and phosphorus are key in the formation of teeth and bones. Vitamin A is essential for eye health and skin, and to strengthen the body’s defenses.

The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only. In all cases we recommend checking with your doctor, therapist or other qualified health professional.

Nutritional Information Calabaza