How Many Calories in Acorn Squash?
Acorn squash has established itself as a popular autumnal mainstay on dinner tables all across the world thanks to its vivid colors and mouthwatering flavor. However, it’s crucial for health-conscious people to comprehend the nutritional makeup of this adaptable vegetable. One important factor is the number of calories it contains, which aids us in making educated selections regarding our dietary preferences.
In this article, we will delve into the world of acorn squash, exploring how many calories in acorn squash and the many benefits it offers. So, let’s unravel the mysteries and discover that a 1-cup serving of cooked acorn squash contains approximately 115 calories, making it a nutrient-rich and satisfying addition to our meals.
Acorn Squash Nutrition Facts
Acorn squash nutrition facts include the following important information:
- Calories: Acorn squash is a fantastic option for anyone limiting their calorie consumption because it is a very low-calorie vegetable. Acorn squash has about 115 calories per cup when cooked.
- Fiber: Per cooked cup of acorn squash, there are about 9 grams of fiber. Fiber improves healthy cholesterol levels, aids in digestion, and encourages feeling full.
- Carbohydrates: With about 30 grams of carbs per cooked cup, acorn squash is a good source of carbohydrates. The body’s main source of energy and the fuel for daily tasks are carbohydrates.
- Protein: Even though acorn squash doesn’t have a lot of protein, one cooked cup still has about 2 grams. The synthesis of enzymes and hormones, immune system activity, and tissue healing all depend on protein.
- Provitamin A: Acorn squash is a fantastic source of beta-carotene, also known as provitamin A. One cup of cooked acorn squash contains more than 400% of the daily required amount of provitamin A.
- Vitamin C: A cooked cup of acorn squash provides vitamin C, providing about 20% of the daily required amount. Antioxidant vitamin C promotes collagen formation, iron absorption, and immune system health.
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1): Per cooked cup of acorn squash, there is around 10% of the daily required amount of thiamine. The metabolism of carbohydrates, neuron health, and the creation of energy all depend on thiamine.
- Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): A cooked cup of acorn squash contains around 15% of the daily required amount of vitamin B6. The production of neurotransmitters, mood modulation, and brain growth are all impacted by vitamin B6.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): In one cooked cup of acorn squash, there is about 15% of the daily required amount of folate. During pregnancy, folate is essential for fetal development, red blood cell creation, and DNA synthesis.
- Iron: Even though acorn squash doesn’t have a lot of iron, one cooked cup still has about 1.5 milligrams. In order to produce energy, carry oxygen, and keep blood cells healthy, iron is necessary.
- Magnesium: Per cup of cooked acorn squash, there are about 60 mg of magnesium. Magnesium is essential for the body’s hundreds of biochemical processes, including those that regulate energy metabolism, muscle and neuron activity, and bone health.
- Potassium: A cooked cup of acorn squash has about 900 milligrams of potassium, which is a healthy supply of potassium. Potassium is necessary for healthy muscular contractions, normal nerve and blood pressure function, and blood pressure regulation.
Health Benefits of Acorn Squash
Due to its nutrient-rich makeup, acorn squash provides a number of health advantages. Here are some of the main health advantages of eating acorn squash.
Beta-carotene and vitamin C, two powerful antioxidants, are abundant in acorn squash. By scavenging dangerous free radicals in the body, these antioxidants lessen oxidative stress and inflammation. You may be able to reduce your chance of developing chronic illnesses including heart disease, some malignancies, and age-related macular degeneration by having acorn squash in your diet.
Provitamin A, often known as beta-carotene, is abundant in acorn squash and is necessary for good vision. In the body, beta-carotene is transformed into vitamin A, supporting the retina’s healthy operation and enhancing vision. Acorn squash consumption on a regular basis may assist in lowering the risk of age-related vision issues such cataracts and macular degeneration.
Vitamin C, found in acorn squash, is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. White blood cells, which are essential for warding off infections and diseases, are stimulated by vitamin C. Acorn squash can boost your immune system and improve general health by being consumed regularly.
Acorn squash’s fiber, potassium, and antioxidant content all support heart health. While potassium helps control blood pressure, the fiber content lowers levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Acorn squash’s antioxidants can also help stop cholesterol from oxidizing, lowering the likelihood of artery plaque buildup and enhancing cardiovascular health.
Dietary fiber, which is abundant in acorn squash, helps maintain a healthy digestive system and regular bowel motions. A sufficient fiber consumption helps support a healthy gut flora, reduce constipation, and keep bowel regularity. Acorn squash can be a helpful addition to your diet to maintain a healthy digestive system.
Acorn squash can be a nice addition to a weight loss strategy due to its high fiber and water content. The low calorie count makes it a healthy option for people limiting their caloric intake, and the fiber encourages satiety, making you feel fuller for longer. You can encourage healthy weight loss or maintenance by using acorn squash in meals that are well-balanced.
Incorporating acorn squash into your diet can offer a range of health benefits, supporting overall well-being and contributing to a nutritious and balanced eating plan. Remember to enjoy acorn squash as part of a varied diet that includes a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.