Probably, many are interested in how zucchini differ from zucchini. And some, perhaps, answer that nothing, because zucchini is just a kind of zucchini. But we know that there are certain differences between these vegetables, and we want you to know that too.
General characteristics
Zucchini is an early ripening member of the pumpkin family, which is the closest relative of the squash. By the way, the name of this fruit comes from the Italian “zucca”, meaning “pumpkin” .… They differ from other members of the zucchini genus by their very tender green or yellowish skin and juicy, crispy white pulp. The main difference between zucchini and zucchini is in its faster ripening (vegetables can be harvested 4-7 days after the ovary appears). There is a noticeable difference in the size of both fruits: zucchini is usually larger, and the ideal size for zucchini is 15 cm. Another advantage of zucchini: despite the fact that the chemical composition of all types of zucchini is very similar, this variety is absorbed by the body much easier.
It is believed that the first zucchini appeared in South America 10 thousand years ago. In those ancient times, wild zucchini was significantly different from what we are used to eating today. South American tribes used these ancient courgettes mainly for seeds, as their flesh was rather bitter.
In the 16th century, zucchini, thanks to conquistadors, crossed the ocean and landed in Europe. Researchers assume that Italians were the first to “domesticate” this green overseas guest and learned to cook the most incredible delicacies out of him. And in the 18th century, young zucchini began to be consumed with might and main in Europe. And since the vegetable came to Russia already from Italy, there is nothing strange that for many years it has been called the Italian zucchini here.
Today, this vegetable is an indispensable component of low-calorie diets, as it has a very low glycemic index. Due to its high water content, zucchini contains practically no calories, but it is a good source of some minerals and vitamins. farmer-online.com… This product is also loved by culinary specialists. Zucchini lends itself well to almost any cooking method.
Nutritional characteristics
Due to its rich nutritional profile, this variety of squash is very beneficial to humans and has many health benefits. Zucchini is one of the lowest calorie vegetables around. 100 g contains no more than 17 kcal and no saturated fat or cholesterol at all. But this vegetable is an excellent source of fiber.
It is important to say that this type of squash is an excellent source of antioxidant substances such as vitamin C. It protects the cells of the human body from free radicals that oxidize DNA, causing mutations in the body. .… Adequate intake of this vitamin helps maintain healthy cells in the nervous system, promotes proper metabolism and strengthens the immune system. 100 g of fresh vegetables contains almost 20 mg of vitamin C, which is about a quarter of the daily requirement.
Zeaxanthin and lutein are two phytonutrients from the carotenoid family (beta-carotene is a source of vitamin A). Both of these substances are found in sufficient quantities in zucchini. The benefit of these ingredients is that they are essential for eye health. Consumption of these substances will protect against diseases that cause blindness, and also significantly reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. 100 g of vegetable contains almost half of the recommended daily portion of these substances.
The chemical cut of zucchini is a combination of many minerals, one of which is manganese. The importance of this fact is that manganese is also needed by the body to protect itself from free radicals. In addition, this mineral promotes healthy bone development. It allows the body to produce collagen, which is essential for effective wound healing and the maintenance of healthy skin, cartilage and connective tissue. Due to the presence of potassium, the vegetable is good for the heart and maintaining normal blood pressure. The vegetable contains iron, phosphorus, zinc and some other minerals, as well as a considerable amount of folic acid and other vitamins of group B, A, E and K ..
Nutritional value for 100 g raw vegetables
Calories 17 kcal Proteins 1,21 g Fats 0,32 g Carbohydrates 3,11 g Fiber 1 g Vitamin A 25 μg Vitamin C 17,9 mg Vitamin E 0,12 mg Vitamin K 4,3 μg Vitamin B1 0,04 mg Vitamin B2 0,09 mg Vitamin B3 0,45 mg Vitamin B5 0,2 mg Vitamin B6 0,16 mg Vitamin B9 24 μg Potassium 261 mg Sodium 8 mg Iron 0,37 mg Calcium 16 mg Magnesium 18 mg Manganese 0,18 mg Phosphorus 38 mg Zinc 0,32 mg Selenium 0,2 μg
Benefits for the body
The benefits of zucchini have something to tell. This vegetable is useful for reducing weight and strengthening the heart, it regulates cholesterol and prevents diseases of the genitourinary system, has anti-inflammatory properties and protects against diabetes.
Favorite vegetable for the heart
This type of squash is high in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Plus, zucchini is a source of folate, which is essential to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Significant amounts of magnesium also help maintain normal blood pressure, but also prevent arrhythmias and tachycardia. Zucchini also contain quite a lot of pectin, the very useful polysaccharide found in apples and pears. This substance is also very beneficial for the cardiovascular system, as it lowers cholesterol in the bloodstream, has a beneficial effect on the arteries and reduces the risk of developing disease-causing inflammation. ..
Improves digestion
Zucchini and other types of zucchini are recommended to be included in the diet of people suffering from diverticulitis and other intestinal diseases. Research shows that this vegetable prevents inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Fiber-rich zucchini are beneficial for treating constipation and diarrhea . ..
Prevents gout
Gout is caused by excess uric acid in the body and is manifested by joint inflammation. Zucchini is a source of anti-inflammatory carotenoids and beneficial fatty acids that help the body counteract the effects of uric acid [8]… This vegetable reduces the overall acidity of the body, which is also an important factor in alleviating the condition in case of illness. We shouldn’t forget about the antioxidant vitamins contained in this variety of squash, which help the body to resist various diseases, including gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Eye benefits
The fact that zucchini contain substances from the group of carotenoids, which are extremely useful for vision, we have already said. But that does not end the eye benefit. Slices of fresh vegetables can get rid of swelling of the eyes and bags under them.
Choice losing weight
This incredibly low calorie food is the best advice for dieters. Despite the fact that zucchini contains almost no calories, they leave you feeling full for a long time (thanks to the presence of fiber). In addition, the vegetable is almost 95% water, which is also important during the diet.
Protects against free radicals
In 2006, researchers studied how zucchini seeds affect the immune system. Scientists’ guesses have been confirmed: zucchini seeds reduce the harmful effects of free radicals and prevent oxidative processes in the body. Scientists have linked this ability to a specific type of protein found in vegetables. Since similar proteins have been found in zucchini, researchers have reason to believe that this type of zucchini also has the ability to protect against free radicals.
Useful for people with diabetes
All varieties of zucchini as a product with a minimum calorie and low glycemic index are an excellent choice for people with diabetes. In addition, zucchini, according to researchers, is useful for preventing the development of sugar disease. The pectin contained in the product has the ability to control blood sugar levels.
Zucchini is also useful in the early stages of type 2 diabetes, as it helps to prevent sudden jumps in blood glucose levels, known as hyper- and hypoglycemia.
Improves the functioning of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands
In 2008, researchers from India determined that the skins of different types of zucchini, including zucchini, contain high concentrations of polyphenols and ascorbic acid. Then the researchers conducted another experiment, as a result of which they determined that this part of the vegetables has a positive effect on the work of the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, and also regulates the production of insulin. And although scientists have carried out this experiment so far only on rats, they assume that a similar result will be obtained with the participation of humans.
Use in folk medicine
One of the main advantages of this vegetable is that it does not cause allergies, so it is considered beneficial even for the smallest children and those prone to food allergies. The benefits for allergy sufferers don’t end there. Herbalists advise taking a decoction of the flowers of the plant as a medicine against allergies.
In case of anemia and problems with the heart or blood vessels, traditional healers advised drinking freshly squeezed zucchini juice, but not more than 100-150 ml per day (the first time, the portion may be even smaller), since large portions can cause stomach upset. It is useful to use this vegetable as a natural medicine for men, in particular for those who have been diagnosed with prostate diseases.
Raw zucchini seeds are used as an antihelminthic, and alcohol tincture of them is useful for calming the nerves and relieving tension.
Possible hazardous properties
Zucchini is a very useful dietary product, but it can still harm some people. ..… This variety of zucchini should not be abused by persons with an excess of potassium in the body or a deficiency of calcium (some substances contained in the vegetable impair the absorption of the mineral).
Vegetable for beauty
Zucchini, like other vegetables and fruits, is rich in many nutrients that are important for maintaining the health, beauty of skin and hair. In particular, eating zucchini and using masks made from chopped vegetable pulp helps to moisturize the skin. This vegetable restores a healthy complexion to the skin, and antioxidants help fight the first wrinkles and age spots. In addition, regular consumption of zucchini promotes the production of collagen, without which the skin becomes flabby and wrinkled. A balanced diet is good for the beauty and health of your hair, and zucchini plays a vital role in this. This vegetable supplies vitamins to the hair, protects it from dryness, and saves the scalp from dandruff.
Use in cooking
Young (very small) zucchini can be added to salads raw, older ones can be fried, baked, stewed, boiled, stuffed. This vegetable goes well with different types of meat, fish, potatoes, carrots, asparagus, green beans. It is good to add it to stews, soups, vegetable casseroles. As spices for zucchini, you can choose parsley, basil, rosemary, tarragon, green onions. The younger the vegetable, the softer its taste. Zucchini with a tough skin, as a rule, already contains a lot of hard seeds, and the quality of the pulp is inferior in its taste characteristics.
Zucchini flowers are also a delicacy ..… Flowers harvested early in the morning are considered the tastiest. Before cooking, the inflorescences are carefully inspected for the presence of insects, freed from the green stem and washed. Zucchini flowers are regularly used in French and Italian cuisine as a side dish or to decorate dishes.
Well, do you still think that zucchini is just a kind of zucchini? Sure not! And next time, choosing on the market between the usual zucchini and zucchini, you might prefer bright green miniature vegetables with a huge list of health benefits.
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