Summer squash

Summer squash are a subset of squashes that are harvested when immature, while the rind is still tender and edible. Nearly all summer squash squashes are varieties of Cucurbita pepo, though not all Cucurbita pepo are considered summer squashes. Most summer squash have a bushy growth habit, unlike the rambling vines of many winter squashes. The name "summer squash" refers to the short storage life of these squashes, unlike that of winter squashes.

Summer squashes include, Cousa squash, pale-colored Zucchini varieties purportedly of Middle Eastern or West Asian descent. Not to be confused with Cushaw, a type of winter squash. Pattypan squash (Scallop squash)Tromboncino or Zucchetta, unusual among summer squash as being a vining plant and a Cucurbita moschata variety. Yellow crookneck squash, Yellow summer squash, Zucchini, Immature Ridge gourd luffa is used as a summer squash in India, where it is known as turai or dodka.

Health benefits of Summer squash:

Summer squash is a rich source of Vitamin A and C, magnesium, fiber, folate, riboflavin, phosphorus, potassium and Vitamin B6.

In addition, it is high in manganese, a mineral which helps the body process fats, carbohydrates, and glucose. 

Yellow squash contains negligible fat and no measurable cholesterol.

One cup of squash contains about 0.2 g of fat. Cutting down on your fat and cholesterol intake is a giant step towards helping reduce your risk of heart disease. 

A cup of summer squash provides about 135 micrograms of beta carotene and 2,400 micrograms of lutein. 

Summer squash is abundant in antioxidants that keep free radicals at bay.

With its high beta-carotene content, summer squash is a great source of protection from pollutants and chemicals that lead to cancer.

The high levels of vitamin C helps prevent premature aging and cancer as well as inhibiting cell division. 

As mentioned above, summer squash is a very good source of manganese. In one clinical trial, women who consumed high amounts of this mineral in their daily diet had fewer mood swings and cramps than those who ate the lowest amounts.

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