Chayote:
Chayote (Sechium edule) is a fruit but it is used
in cooking as vegetable. It very low in calories(19 calories per 100grams) and
very helpful in reducing cholesterol.It was know popularly with many names in
different regions(merliton, christophene,El Chayote,Choko,seema vankaya, Sayote
and chowchow). Mostly called as Mango squash,Vegetable pear and Alligator pear.
Nutritional
Values with Chayote:
- Chayote squash has good amount of folates(23%) which improves red blood cells and helps for women during pregnancy.
- Chayotes are a good source of potassium(2.5%) which keeps heart beat , blood pressure in control and relives tidiness.
- Chayotes are power pack of Vitamin-C(13%) and essential amino acids which fights against free radicals and boosts immunity system.
- Chayote contains manganese(8%) which converts protein and fat to energy. Mix this veggie wisely with high protein items like egg for healthy benefits.
- Chayote relives constipation and irregular bowel movement due presence of dietary fiber(4.5%-7%)
- Chayote contains Zinc(5-7%) which controls oil secretions in the skin and prevents pimple and acne.
- Chayote improves blood clotting, strengthens bones and prevent osteoporosis due presence of Vitamin-k(4%). Very useful for older people.
- Chayote have vitamin-B6(4-6%) which improves memory power and performance.
- Chayote relives muscle cramps due to presence of Magnesium(3%).
- Chayote leaves are mild diuretic(high in alkaloid content) useful for dissolving kidney stones and treating atherosclerosis.
- Chayote exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and is very helpful for people suffering from gout or arthritis.
- Chayote contains copper which is essential in iron absorption and helps iodine to keep healthy thyroid metabolism.
- Chayote was used in ancient therapy by Indonesians in dealing with diabetes, high blood pressure and hypertension.
- Chayote tea made of peal or flesh used to reduce stomach bolting.
- Chayote have cell-regenerative properties which make you look always young.
- Chayotes are grated and used as bandage to stop the swelling of wounds.
- Chayote guard against anemia, frequent cold & coughs,Insomnia due to presence of Vitamin-c and iron.
-
Chayote contains good amounts of B-complex vitamins(Thiamine(2%),
Riboflavin(2%),Niacin(3%), Pantothenic acid(5%),Vitamin B6(6%),Folate(23%) which keeps the body healthy. - Chayote roots or tubers are used like Yams. These are used as fodder for mammals.
- Chayotes secrets a kind of liquid while peeling which gives peculiar sensation. But it does not long. For safety take precautions while peeling.
- Due to cooling effect of Chayote, it not suitable food for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.