Squash's nutrient profile, in particular, makes it an excellent player in the fight against chronic inflammation. (Related: Dietitian-approved, High-protein Snacks To Eat After a Workout) However, when inflammation becomes chronic-meaning it is triggered for a prolonged period of time-it can stimulate the development of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, neurological disease and cancer.Īs simple as it may sound, one major way to prevent or combat chronic inflammation is to consume a diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, unrefined grains, unsaturated fats and lean proteins- research supports this suggestion above all other dietary fads. It occurs when there is exposure to an allergen or toxin, when an injury happens or during an infection to help kick-start the healing process. But first, it's important to note that inflammation is a necessary function in the body. Instead of noshing on plain steamed squash, for example, make sure you drizzle some healthy fats, such as olive oil, on top to ensure optimal absorption of those skin-nourishing compounds.Ī review article in a 2021 issue of the journal Biomedicines examined the anti-inflammatory effects of diet on healthy ageing. This means that in order to be absorbed in the body, they need to be in the presence of fat. But, before you go and gobble up numerous plates of squash in the hopes of promoting youthful skin, it's important to note that carotenoids are fat-soluble. This information matched the theory, also discussed in the paper, that higher levels of antioxidants in the skin help protect against ageing. A review paper published in a 2011 issue of the journal Molecules, described that high carotenoid levels in the skin helped individuals appear younger, although that metric is subjective. Beta-carotene also supports the growth and turnover of new skin cells. For context, free radicals are a type of harmful molecule that can build up in cells and cause damage to things like DNA and proteins. Beta-carotene in squash, for example, supports skin health by fighting damage done to the skin by free radicals. Next time I'm at the farmer's market, I'll be picking up both, and I think you should too.Research indicates that carotenoids are among the strongest antioxidants. Plus, they both taste REALLY amazing, which pretty much tops any differences they have. They also have a few things in common: you can roast and eat their seeds, both of their skins are edible, and, as mentioned earlier, they are even grown the same way. There may be more differences between acorn squash vs butternut squash than you originally knew of, but if you always thought they were the same thing, don't worry. Both kinds of squash can sit out in room temperature for months, so feel free to go nuts and stock up when they're on sale. If you're looking for a squash that can safely sit on your counter for months because you keep forgetting to cook it, butternut squash and acorn squash are for you. Butternut squash don't really have a specific "ripe look" to them, but you'll want one without any bruises or puncture holes in it. You'll want one that's a lighter green with a small spot of orange on it. When buying an acorn squash from the store, be careful not to pick one that's completely green or too orange. Can you interchange them in a recipe? While they're similar in flavor, it's best to just use the one the recipe is asking for, unless it says you can use either one. Taste is something heavily argued in the acorn squash vs butternut squash debate. #SpoonTip: To get a good butternut squash, pick one that has a larger "neck" and a smaller "bulb" to get more squash and less seeds. The skin is a lot smoother than the skin of an acorn squash and is generally easier to cut and peel. Butternut squash are beige and have a long "neck" with a bulbous end. They have thick green skin with prominent ridges, making it a bit more difficult to chop up for cooking. They taste kinda similar, so they can just be used in place of each other, right? Well, it turns out they're actually pretty different. Here's what you need to know when the squash display at the store has you all confused.Īcorn squash are small and, well, shaped like acorns. I noticed that a roasted butternut squash was a lot smoother and creamier, while acorn squash held up better when chopped up in salads. The first time I tried both kinds of squash was when my mom and I went on a "try new foods" marathon a few years ago (ever tried a Hubbard squash?). The acorn squash vs butternut squash question can be a tough one to hash out. By adding your email you agree to get updates about Spoon University Healthier
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