There is also a potential link between vitamin E and Alzheimer’s disease. There is evidence to suggest an association between carotenoid intake and better memory recall and verbal communication. Cognitive Healthįruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants may also protect against cognitive decline. These antioxidants work to protect the eyes from UV damage. AMD is the leading cause of vision impairment. Visionįoods rich in carotenoids are associated with a reduced risk for eye-related conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The effects of theses antioxidants, called carotenoids, may help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. One study, for example, found that heart disease risk fell by 23% for each additional serving of yellow or orange plant foods each day. The fiber may also help fight against atherosclerosis and encourage better heart health.Īntioxidants in squash and other bright-orange fruits and vegetables may have added benefits for heart health. Insoluble fiber can lower the risk of heart disease. It is linked with lower blood pressure and lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools to help clean out your intestines, and soluble fiber draws in water to soften the waste so it’s easier to pass.įiber also helps feed healthy gut bacteria, which may help strengthen your immunity. Acorn squash has a slight edge in fiber content. Winter squash is a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can contribute to a healthy digestive system. A stickler for nutrient targets may side with acorn, but among average people, who’s counting? Butternut Squash and Acorn Squash Benefitsīoth acorn squash and butternut squash are packed with nutrients that, when included in a healthy diet, may contribute to a host of benefits. Notable differences are in vitamins A and B 1 content, but it’s hard to say that one squash is healthier or more nutritious than the other. You’ll also find some non-heme iron in winter squash as well.Īs you can see, there is some variation in these two forms of winter squash, but not much. Here is what you’ll get in one cup (205 grams ) of each cooked squash: Nutrient Acorn Squash: The Nutrition Factsīoth varieties are dense sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that promote health, but there are some slight differences between the two. It’s best to stick to what the recipe calls for to achieve the desired result, but a substitute is unlikely to leave you scratching your head about what you’re eating.īoth butternut squash and acorn squash have a very long shelf life, so it is easy to keep a few on hand when needed. Generally speaking, the two squash can be substituted for each other if you’re in a pinch. Some may be unable to distinguish any subtle flavor differences. Butternut is quite smooth to the touch and is much easier to cut and peel than acorn squash.īutternut squash has a sweet, nutty flavor, where acorn squash may be a little sweeter and slightly less nutty. It has a light brown/beige color and unique shape, featuring a bulbous base and a long neck.

Common varieties have a small showing of orange towards the top.īutternut squash, Cucurbita moschata, looks much different. As the name suggests, it has an acorn-like shape and is marked with prominent ridges running from base to tip. turbinate) is a small, dark-green squash.

All of these plants, which are harvested in the fall and last through winter, represent species within the genus Cucurbita.Īcorn squash ( Cucurbita pepo var. Acorn Squash: The Main DifferencesĪcorn squash and butternut squash, along with pumpkin and more, are part of the winter squash family.

acorn squash, what will you do? Are they worthy substitutes, or will picking one over the other send your diet-or even a tasty recipe-into a tailspin? Butternut Squash vs. But what are the differences between them? If you’re faced with the choice of butternut squash vs. These colorful, shapely fruits will decorate store shelves and dining tables in the months to come.

And one of the season’s most popular crops, winter squash, is all set for gathering.

Acorn squash carbs