Chayote squash is a pale green fruit with a shape similar to a pear. The fruit, that’s typically cooked as a vegetable, is native to Central America and has been traditionally used for its many health benefits.
Chayote squash provide great health benefits and beneficial nutrients. Purdue University researchers say chayote squash can be used to lower high blood pressure, dissolve kidney stones and treat atherosclerosis.
Traditionally, tea made from the flesh of chayote squash has been used as a mild diuretic properties in treating bloating and flatulence in many parts of the world.
Another benefit of chayote squash, is that it’s loaded with healthy fiber. According to the USDA, one cup of cooked chayote has 4.5 grams of fiber, which is 12 percent of the daily requirement. Dietary fiber from the alkaline fruit adds bulk and fluid to the stool, which keeps digestive tract healthy and prevents constipation. Men should consume 38 grams of fiber a day and women should consume 25 grams, according recommendation by The Institute of Medicine.
Chayote is very low in calories. The squash only has 11 calories, 5 g of carbohydrates and 2 g sugar in an one-half cup serving. Chayote squash has no fat or cholesterol. The fruit also has only 3 mg of sodium in one-half cup.