Pattypan Squash Nutrition Information
Pattypan squash is a heart-healthy vegetable, packed with vitamins and minerals such as potassium and magnesium that offer cardio-protective effects. Pattypan squash originates from the region between Mexico and Guatemala, and is a relative of the cucumber and melon, members of the Cucurbitaceae family.
Tips
One serving of Pattypan Squash is reported to have 14 Calories, according to the nutrition facts provided by livestrong.com.
Identification
Pattypan squash, otherwise known as scallop squash, is a small, round, saucer-shaped vegetable that grows during summer months 2. This variety of squash displays a pale green, white or rich yellow skin, with a white, fleshy interior.
Nutritional Information
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Pattypan squash is low in saturated fat and sodium and contains no cholesterol. It provides an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked pattypan squash provides 38 calories and 43 percent of your daily value of Vitamin C, 13 percent of your daily value of folate, and substantial amounts of vitamin B-6, magnesium, potassium and Vitamin A. Additionally, one serving of pattypan squash provides 5 grams of fiber.
Significance
Pattypan squash is a healthful addition to any diet, especially for people on a low sodium diet. Pattypan squash is low in calories, sodium, cholesterol and fat and can be blanched, frozen, cooked or steamed. Enjoy pattypan squash in your favorite casserole, stir-fry or even muffins or bread.
Benefits
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Pattypan squash has many disease-fighting elements. Its fiber content helps reduce the risk of colon cancer and reduce dietary cholesterol. The vitamin C found in pattypan squash can also help prevent oxidation of cholesterol in the blood vessels, which in turn can decrease risk for atherosclerosis. Pattypan squash's potassium and magnesium content work to lower blood pressure. Magnesium also reduces the risk for heart attack and stroke.
- Pattypan squash has many disease-fighting elements.
- Pattypan squash's potassium and magnesium content work to lower blood pressure.
Considerations
Pattypan squash contains oxalate. Persons with underlying kidney or gallbladder health conditions should consider avoiding this food. Studies have shown that oxalates interfere with calcium absorption, and high concentrations of oxalates can accumulate and crystallize within the body.
Related Articles
References
- USDA National Nutrient Database: Squash, Summer, Scallop, Cooked, Boiled, Drained Without Salt
- University of Illinois: Summer Squash
- U.S. Department of Agriculture. Squash, winter, butternut, cooked, baked, without salt. FoodData Central. 2019.
- USDA. Daily Nutritional Goals for Age-Sex Groups Based on Dietary Reference Intakes and Dietary Guidelines Recommendations. 2020.
- Butternut pumpkin, boiled. Glycemic Index Database. The University of Sydney. Updated November 2019
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin A. Updated February 14, 2020.
- Wong IY, Koo SC, Chan CW. Prevention of age-related macular degeneration. Int Ophthalmol. 2011;31(1):73-82. doi:10.1007/s10792-010-9397-5
- Di Noia J. Defining Powerhouse Fruits and Vegetables: A Nutrient Density Approach. Prev Chronic Dis. 2014;11:E95. doi:10.5888/pcd11.130390
- Harrison FE, May JM. Vitamin C function in the brain: Vital role of the ascorbate transporter SVCT2. Free Radic Biol Med. 2009;46(6):719-730. doi:10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.12.018
- Jacobo-Valenzuela N, Zazueta-Morales J. Chemical and physicochemical characterization of winter squash (Cucurbita moschata D.). Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca. 2011;39(1). doi:10.15835/nbha3915848
- Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866
Writer Bio
Shannon Summers is passionate about holistic health and wellness, is a master certified health education specialist and holds a B.S. in nutritional science, as well as an M.Ed. in health education. Summers is a contributing writer to health and fitness websites.