Winter Squash Recipes
Nutrition Facts Butternut Squash Vitamins and Minerals
Butternut squash has a high amount of vitamin A. One cup of mashed butternut squash provides 160 percent of recommended daily allowances. Vitamin A is found in the form of beta-carotene. Vitamin C is also plentiful, providing 52 percent of daily allowances. Manganese per 1-cup portion provides 21 percent of the daily recommended values followed closely by calcium, potassium and magnesium. Other nutrients include folate, omega-3 fatty acid, vitamins B1, B6 and B3 (which is niacin). Copper and pantothenic acid are also found in butternut squash. Health Benefits Beta-carotene, which is high on the nutritional value chart of butternut squash, has both anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also proven to help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the body, which helps maintain proper levels of cholesterol and reduce the possibility of heart attacks or strokes. Butternut squash is also thought to be beneficial to the regulation of blood sugar and insulin resistance for diabetics. The potassium in butternut squash may help reduce blood pressure, while vitamin C can reduce the severity of asthma, arthritis and atherosclerosis. The fiber in this vegetable may be a benefit in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Folate may also aid in cancer reduction for people with a history of alcohol overuse.
Only 94 calories for a 1 cup serving with nothing on it.