Winter squash contain antioxidants, which can help protect against conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Squash also contains a variety of carotenoids, which are the molecules that make the flesh of the squash appear yellow or orange (and they're also antioxidants! See #1). Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are found abundantly in winter squash, are great for eye health, prevention of cancer and for optimal immune function.
Vitamin C is found in winter squash, and is often touted for it's immune boosting qualities. Vitamin C is also useful for tissue repair! It helps collagen lay properly, helping us have smoother skin with improved elasticity.
Winter squash has plenty of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, and can even help to lower cholesterol levels when eaten regularly.
Manganese is a mineral that is found in winter squash (and in their seeds, which are often delicious when toasted!). While we don't need lots of it, manganese is important for bone health, skin integrity and blood sugar control.
There are lots of ways to prepare winter squash - you can bake it, blend it into a creamy soup, stuff it, or mash it (and more)!
Below is a simple recipe that will work for almost all types of winter squash, so you can try out new varieties for yourself!
Add a little butter, a little more cinnamon and another pinch of salt to the squash for a sweet and savoury side dish. You can eat it as a side dish right out of the skin, or scoop it out! Enjoy!