עברית
Health and Nutrition
Heart Healthy: 5 Reasons to Add Zucchini to Your Diet
While many recipes rely on potatoes and sweet potatoes, it might be time to give the green veggie a try. Not only is it healthier, but it can also help shed those extra pounds.
- Yitzhak Eitan
- |Updated
We often stock our fridge with a variety of vegetables—potatoes, sweet potatoes, celery, and more regularly appear in our meals. Yet one of the healthiest vegetables, gaining popularity in many recipes, is zucchini. It’s tasty, nutritious, and a staple in many kitchens.
Zucchini offers numerous benefits, being low in calories but rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A nutrition expert, cited in Al Arabiya newspaper, shared five reasons to add zucchini to your menu:
Weight Loss: Zucchini is an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight or shed a few pounds. They are low in calories, high in water content, and help promote a feeling of fullness.
Improved Digestion: Zucchini is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps prevent constipation. Fiber may also contribute to lowering the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidant Properties: Zucchini is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. Consuming antioxidants can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Heart Health: Packed with potassium and magnesium, zucchini supports cardiovascular health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, while magnesium supports a steady heart rhythm and proper muscle function.
Eye Health: Not just carrots, but zucchini is also high in vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining eye health and may help reduce the risk of certain eye diseases.
In conclusion, zucchini is a delicious, affordable vegetable that works well in a variety of dishes. It can be cooked in soups, baked, or added to salads, casseroles, and more, making it a versatile addition to your diet.
