This plant named chayote, which is also known under its botanical name as Sechium edule, is a tropical fruit of a perennial vine plant. It belongs in the family of cucurbit, same as the cucumber, melon, and pumpkin.
Chayote has diverse forms, but the commonest are pear shaped and lime green. It has been used in numerous countries, and because of that, it has gained many other different names, such as Mirliton and pear in North America, green gold and sayote in the Philippines, pipinella in Italy, christophene in the Caribbean islands, pipinola in Hawaii, and etc.
Characteristics of chayote
Chayote has been mainly used in cuisine, but thanks to its amazing health characteristics, it provides numerous health benefits, including cells regeneration. It contains high amount of proteins, antioxidants, and vitamin C. It provides diuretic effect, it improves circulation, and avoids fluid accumulation, as well.
Thanks to the high content of amino acids, it supports the formation of enzymes, antibodies, and collagen, which contributes to the fight against hair loss and fatigue. In addition, it maintains skin health, reduces stress, balances cholesterol, and increases muscle strength.
Tyrosine, an amino acid, successfully treats depression and intervenes in the health of the thyroid and pituitary gland.
To sum up, take a look at the following features of chayote:
- It contains a low content of starch;
- It is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and essential amino acids.
- It is high in diverse minerals, including calcium, potassium, folic acid, and
- It regenerates cells;
- It has a diuretic effect.
- It doesn’t provide a lot of
- It Improves circulation.
Lose weight with chayote
100 grams of chayote will provide you with only 22 calories, thus making it a perfect alternative for people aiming to lose weight for 350 calories of cooked rice. The very same amount of chayote has 0.2 g of non-saturated fats, 15 mg of potassium, 2.2 grams of fiber, 22.4 mg of calcium, 1.1 g of proteins, and 5.1 g of carbohydrates.
Detox your body with chayote
The high amount of potassium in this plant will detoxify your body and help it to lose weight. This makes it an excellent replacement for elimination of liquids accumulation. It contributes circulation and controls the blood pressure.
Versatile chayote fruit
The fact that this plant is tasteless makes it to absorbs any flavor which will be added to it, including sugar, spices, fruits, and salt. It can be prepared in the oven, either stewed or boiled. It can be used for cooking sour dishes and sweet desserts. Its leaves can be used in Infusions, and its roots can be used as substitutes for potatoes.
Source: naturalcarebox.com