Chayote: Crisp Tropical Vegetable Rich in Vitamin C and Fiber
Chayote is a mild, crisp tropical squash high in vitamin C, fiber, and folate, supporting heart health and digestion.
What Is Chayote?
Chayote (*Sechium edule*) is a **green, pear-shaped tropical vegetable** native to Mexico and Central America. It has a **crisp texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor**, similar to cucumber or zucchini.
Nutrition (per 100 g, raw)
- **Calories:** 19 kcal
- **Carbohydrates:** 4.5 g
- **Fiber:** 1.7 g
- **Vitamin C:** 7.7 mg (13% DV)
- **Folate:** 93 µg (23% DV)
- **Potassium:** 125 mg
Health Benefits
- **Supports heart health** through potassium and folate.
- **Aids digestion** thanks to dietary fiber.
- **Low-calorie** and hydrating, great for weight control.
- **Antioxidants** reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Possible Drawbacks
- Contains small amounts of **oxalates**, which may affect people with kidney issues.
- Overcooking can make it lose nutrients and texture.
Culinary Uses
- Eaten **raw in salads** or **lightly cooked in soups and stir-fries**.
- Common in **Latin American and Asian cuisines**.
- Can be **steamed, roasted, or stuffed**.
Summary
Chayote is a light, nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamin C and folate, ideal for supporting digestion and heart health.
- 1. Chayote
Chayote: tropsko povrće iz porodice tikvica, blagog okusa i hrskave teksture, bogato vitaminom C, folatom i vlaknima.