Is winter squash nutritious?
Winter squash is a tasty source of complex carbohydrates (natural sugar and starch) and fiber. Fiber absorbs water and becomes bulky in the stomach. It works throughout the intestinal track, cleaning and moving waste quickly out of the body. Winter squash also is a source of potassium, niacin and iron. The orange-fleshed squash also is an excellent source of beta carotene. As a general rule, the deeper the orange color, the higher the beta carotene content. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin, vision, bone development and maintenance as well as many other functions. The nutrient content of winter squash varies, depending on the variety. The following information is a summary of all varieties, cooked, baked and cubed: Nutrition facts (1 cup cooked, cubes): 79 calories, 1.8 grams protein, 18 grams carbohydrates, 5.7 grams dietary fiber. Q: How do you peel winter squash? A: Peeling winter squash can be a challenge. The thin-skinned
