Spaghetti Squash Is Full Of Nutrients, Read More Of It's Health Benefits

There are few things as comforting as a big bowl of spaghetti with marinara sauce and meatballs. Traditional white wheat pasta, tasty as it is, isn’t necessarily the healthiest option, especially for gluten-intolerant folks. Enter spaghetti squash. It might not look super appealing on the outside, but on the inside, it transforms into thin strands that resemble—you guessed it—spaghetti.

The winter vegetable is a trusted ally whenever you’re looking for a lower-carb, more nutrient-dense version of pasta. But as with any other trendy food, it’s easy to wonder if it’s truly healthy or just an overhyped ingredient (giving you some side-eye, activated charcoal). We tapped a few nutrition experts to find out the full deets.

# Gut health

Sphagetti squash has high content of fiber which offers 2 grams per cup i.e. 10 percent of daily recommended intake. Fiber is crucial for maintaining digestive health. It feeds good bacteria in intestines which is a vital part of digestive and immune system. It promotes digestion by moving slowly through gastrointestinal tract and promotes regularity. Healthy gut provides excellent immunity.

# Weight management

Spaghetti squash is low in carbs and high in fiber which is a perfect substitute for regular pasta for those who are trying to lose weight. A cup of spaghetti squash offers 10% of adults fiber needs for a day. Diet rich in fiber helps to assist weight loss because it promotes satiety which means feeling of fullness. The fiber helps to prevent overeating and indulging in sugary cravings.

# Rich in antioxidants

Foods such as oranges, pomegranates, spaghetti squash and kale have good amounts of antioxidants. Spaghetti squash has beta carotene and Vitamin C that helps to prevent chronic diseases and inflammation. Antioxidants has the ability to combat cell damaging free radicals and toxins. The damaged cells when replicate, it creates high changes for inflammation and chronic disease. It is loaded with other essential nutrients such as magnesium, potassium and manganese. It is also rich in Vitamin A which is beneficial for eye health and B vitamins contributes to proper cell functioning.

# Low glycemic

Spaghetti squash is a food low in glycemic for more even blood sugar levels. Low glycemic index won’t cause sudden spike in blood sugar like higher carbohydrate alternatives. It has polysaccharides which is a type of fiber preventing blood sugar from rising after meals.

# Combat inflammation

Spaghetti squash has omega-3 fatty acids which makes it anti-inflammatory and overall health.