Health Sudha – Srilekha Yagnik
The festive days are coming. Everyone wants to look beautiful on festive days. Nowadays obesity problem is constantly bothering young and old citizens. In such circumstances it is essential to maintain a balance in the diet. Zucchini, which looks like a cucumber or milk, contains many health related properties. There are more than 10 different types of zucchini. There are mainly two types of Zucchini used in it – dark green and dark yellow known as Golden Zucchini. Regular consumption of zucchini increases the activity of the nervous system. Zucchini is also rich in vitamin C, which is beneficial for glowing skin. Eating fresh green vegetables is often advised by expert dieticians to maintain good health. The main reason for this is that fresh vegetables are rich in vitamins and fiber along with nutritional qualities, which are considered healthy.
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What is zucchini?
Many people may have a question in mind that which vegetable is zucchini? Many people mistake cucumber for zucchini. Actually, both zucchini and cucumber are different vegetables. The scientific name of zucchini is Cucurbita pepo. Zucchini is also known by the other name of Cartgate. In the 20th century, almost no one in America included zucchini in their meals. Currently, it is seen that various dishes and sweets are also made using zucchini in Western countries. It is also known as ‘Green Italian Squash’. It is used liberally in the diet during hot days. Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, potassium are found in good amount. It is considered as a fast growing vegetable. Eating fiber-rich foods makes the stomach feel fuller for longer, thus reducing the urge to eat frequently. Since it is low in calories, its use in the diet does not cause fat deposits in the body. Keeping your weight under control keeps your heart healthy. Cultivation of Zucchini in India has become very popular nowadays. Farmers of Jharkhand and Haryana are getting good health and good profit through Zucchini cultivation. It can be harvested in just 55 days by using less water. Buy zucchini that is firm. Buy dark in appearance.
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Health Benefits of Zucchini
Effective in controlling blood pressure
Zucchini contains a good amount of potassium. Dietary intake of potassium is essential to control blood pressure. Patients who want to control blood pressure can include zucchini in their diet.
Beneficial for asthma patient
Zucchini contains a good amount of vitamin C, which is considered a powerful antioxidant. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect, so that asthma attacks can be relieved to some extent.
It is rich in anti-oxidants
Zucchini contains a good amount of antioxidants. It also contains various anti-oxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, lutein, beta carotene, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Due to free radicals, various types of problems are seen in the body, such as joint pain, eye weakness, memory loss with increasing age, etc. To avoid the above problem, zucchini should be included in the diet, which is rich in anti-oxidants.
Useful in boosting immunity
If a person’s immune system is strong, it helps protect the body from various diseases. According to a research, Zucchini contains good amount of B-carotene and lycopene. Both the above chemical compounds help in boosting immunity. Also helps in enhancing immune cell function.
Beneficial in strengthening bones
Consuming Zucchini in diet helps maintain bone strength. Zucchini contains good amounts of magnesium and phosphorus. Also, due to the abundance of calcium, the use of zucchini helps in maintaining the health of bones and teeth.
Useful for eye health
Aging also has an effect on eye health. A research published on the website of ACBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) also states that Zucchini contains good amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. With increasing age, the problem of weakening of eyes, dimness etc. can be avoided.
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Zucchini, Paneer, Corn-Capsicum Stir Fry
Ingredients: 1 Zucchini, 1 Capsicum, 100 gm Cheese Cubes, 1 Bowl American Corn Kernels, 1 Green Onion, 1 Tbsp Butter, Salt to Taste, Coriander for Garnish
Preparation: First cut the zucchini into equal pieces. Remove the small seeds. Also cut the capsicum into pieces. Boil the corn kernels. Heat the butter in a pan over low heat. Saute zucchini and capsicum in it on low heat. Add cheese slices. Add corn kernels too. Allow to fry for two minutes. Add salt to taste and garnish with chopped onion and coriander and serve with delicious stir fry paratha.
