Chayote Squash, which is famously known as Chow-Chow in India, is a vegetable belonging to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. The thin-skinned, big-pear shaped vegetable, which goes with the botanical name sechium edule which is also referred to as a fruit. In fact, it is an edible vegetable, and historians believe that it was among the several vegetables that were introduced to the Old World in the Columbian exchange. Chayote is also known as a Spanish word, which is known as Choko in Australia, New Zealand. It is referred to as a Christophene in Ireland and the United Kingdom, and also known as a Siamese Gourd in Indonesia.
There is no denying that this nutritious vegetable with succulent flesh is delectable to taste. It is one of the staple ingredients in Latin American nations and is consumed both in the raw and cooked forms. While uncooked chayote is an integral part of salads or salsas in these countries in India. In this blog, we will find out more about Chayote benefits and its nutritional value.
The Composition of Chayote: Key Nutrients and Benefits
Chayote, which is often known as vegetable pear, is a nutritious fruit with several health advantages. The chayote nutritional value used in skincare can considerably improve skin texture. Some of the main nutrients and the benefits of chayote are:
- Vitamin C: Antioxidant protection shields the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Collagen production promotes collagen synthesis that improves skin suppleness and reduces wrinkles. Skin brightening promotes even skin tone and reduces hyperpigmentation.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Cell regeneration encourages cell division and regeneration, which results in healthy skin renewal. DNA repair helps to repair DNA, which is essential for preserving skin health.
- Magnesium: Anti-aging helps in cellular mechanisms that will prevent skin aging. The calming effect calms inflamed skin and minimizes inflammation.
- Manganese: Collagen formation is necessary for collagen production and skin suppleness. Antioxidant defence protects against oxidative stress.
- Antioxidants: Free radical neutralisation shields the skin against environmental harm and premature aging. Anti-inflammatory agents relieve inflammation and soothe the skin.
- Dietary Fiber: Detoxification promotes the elimination of toxins from the body, which will benefit skin health. Gut health encourages proper digestion, which indirectly benefits the skin by improving general health.
Health Benefits Of Chayote
Research suggested that chayote might offer the following potential benefits as part of overall health:
1. Chayote for Heart Health
Diets that are high in saturated fats will lead to fat build-up in the arteries, which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Chayote juice benefits is low in fat as it contains fiber and antioxidants that will support heart health by managing cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet. Research has found that extracts of chayote help in the treatment of heart diseases by influencing the function of the smooth muscles of the arteries. In addition, chayote is rich in fiber and has been shown that dietary fibers might prevent cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, if you suffer a heart attack, then don’t replace your medications with chayote, as it is best to consult a doctor and seek treatment.
2. Chayote for Diabetes
Diabetes is a medical condition in which the blood has high levels of sugar. As per the research, natural antioxidants in the vegetables, such as chayote, will help to maintain glucose balance in the body and reduce sugar spikes after meals. In addition, the rich fibrous content of the chayote might help in managing blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates, which results in reduced blood sugar levels even after eating. The chayote extracts will help in reducing blood sugar levels. However, you can also consult the doctor to know if consuming chayote is right for you in supporting diabetes management.
3. Chayote in Pregnancy
Women need particular nutrients, such as folate, iron, calcium, and essential vitamins, to support a healthy pregnancy. Chayote is a good source of folate, which is a vital nutrient during pregnancy that supports the healthy development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Research suggested that adequate folate consumption might help in reducing the risk of premature delivery and neural tube defects. Including chayote as part of a balanced diet will contribute to a healthy pregnancy. Also, it can help in lowering blood pressure in pregnant women; however, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional rather than relying on self-medication.
4. Chayote in Cancer
Cancer is a critical medical condition where the body’s cells abnormally multiply, affecting their normal functioning. Research has found that chayote might inhibit the multiplication of cancerous cells and promote cell death. Research has also found that chayote fruits might help in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. In addition, the chayote leaf extracts might inhibit the multiplication of breast cancer cells. However, if you suspect cancer, in spite of self-medication, then you should consult a doctor to understand its health benefits.
5. Chayote for Anti-ageing
Antioxidants protect the body against cellular damage and reduce inflammation. Research has suggested that free radicals will damage the body cells, reduces the body’s functioning over time, and accelerate ageing. Research has shown that antioxidants from chayote that will protect the cells from the harmful effects of the UV rays and reduce cell damage, and slow down the signs of ageing. Since chayote is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and may benefit the skin by promoting collagen production, that might reduce the visible signs of ageing, like fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentations. Moreover, you should always consult your doctor first.
6. Chayote in Fatty Liver
Fatty liver disease occurs when excessive fat accumulates in the liver, affecting its normal function. Research has indicated that extracts from chayote will help in protecting liver tissue by reducing fat deposition. While these findings are promising. However, research is required, and dietary changes should always be discussed with a healthcare professional. If you have a fatty liver, then you should consult a doctor first.
How to Use Chayote?
Chayote can be used in various ways:
- Fruits, shoots, and roots that are steamed, roasted, or squashed as vegetables and used in sweet and savoury dishes.
- Chayote peels and seeds are eaten raw by adding them to smoothies and salads.
- Tuberous roots are used as a substitute for wheat in different pickles and sweets.
- Chayote leaves are well used to produce skincare, cosmetics, and medicinal products.
- You should also consult a healthcare expert before consuming any supplements.
Side Effects of Chayote
There are no significant side effects that have been scientifically documented in relation to the moderate consumption of chayote as a part of a normal diet. However, it is well-tolerated by most people and is not known to cause adverse effects when it is properly prepared and consumed.
Wrapping It Up
Chayote benefits for skin are notable due to its high-water content and vitamin C. Its antioxidants will help you in promoting skin health by combating free radicals and supporting a more youthful complexion. In traditional medicine, decoctions are made from the leaves or fruit of chayote that have been used for their potential diuretic properties. Also, they have been traditionally applied to support kidney health and manage certain respiratory discomforts.
