BUTTERNUT: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews (2024)

FAQs

BUTTERNUT: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews? ›

Butternut is a type of laxative called a stimulant laxative. Stimulant laxatives can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the risk of side effects of digoxin (Lanoxin). Medications for inflammation (Corticosteroids)Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

In some people butternut can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. If you take warfarin do not take excessive amounts of butternut.

Fast facts about butternut squash

It is a good source of fiber, potassium, and several other key nutrients. The nutritional content of squash makes it beneficial for digestion, blood pressure, and for healthy skin and hair, among others. Squash can enhance or form the basis of a range of sweet and savory dishes.

Medicinal Uses

Butternut was used by various native North American Indian tribes as a laxative and tonic remedy to treat a variety of conditions including rheumatic and arthritic joints, headaches, dysentery, constipation and wounds[254].

Butternut squash is high in potassium, which can help keep your blood pressure in check. Managing your blood pressure can reduce your risk for stroke and heart disease. Its fiber helps with blood sugar. Butternut squash contains a type of fiber that's not digestible.

Squash can be a good choice for many peritoneal and home hemodialysis patients when you may need to eat more potassium rich foods. Eating squash will not have an effect on forming kidney stones. The National Kidney Foundation wishes to thank its Council on Renal Nutrition (CRN) for the development of this fact sheet.

A cup of butternut squash cubes clocks in at about 7 grams of fiber—making a sizable contribution toward the 25 to 30 grams you need per day. “Fiber has many positive health effects, including limiting weight gain, lowering cholesterol levels, and reducing risk of type 2 diabetes,” Willett says.

Fiber Rich

One cup of cooked butternut squash has only 83 calories and provides 7 grams of filling fiber — making it an excellent choice to lose excess weight and body fat. It contains both insoluble and soluble fiber. Soluble fiber has been associated with fat loss and decreased appetite.

Butternut squash is an abundant source of powerful antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Antioxidants help prevent or slow cellular damage and reduce inflammation, which may reduce your risk of several chronic diseases.

“Eating butternut squash on a regular basis (a few times a week) could help to significantly boost potassium in the diet, naturally supporting more balanced blood pressure.”

What is butternut used for? ›

Butternut is a plant. People use the bark for medicine. People take butternut for constipation, gallbladder disorders, hemorrhoids, and skin diseases. It is also used for cancer and infections caused by bacteria and parasites.

Is Butternut Squash Healthy? All the Nutritional Benefits of This Fall Superfood. While it's higher in carbs, butternut squash is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.

It's high in fibre which means it may contribute to a healthy gut by improving digestion and reducing constipation. It's also low in calories and packed with beta-carotene – our bodies convert this to vitamin A to support the immune system, healthy eyes and strong bones.

A steaming hot bowl of butternut squash soup is a powerhouse of nutrition. With each spoonful, there's refreshing Vitamin C, soothing magnesium, balancing potassium, and liver-nourishing beta carotene.

Summary. Butternut squash is a low-fat, lower-calorie source of carbohydrates with plenty of filling fiber. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamin A and C and contains thiamin, niacin, and folate.

Butternut squash and acorn squash have been known to cause an allergic reaction in many individuals, especially in food preparation where the squash skin is cut and exposed to the epidermis.

Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is a superb source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, all of which can contribute to lower inflammation levels. Blend butternut squash into soups or roast it with a touch of cinnamon for a sweet and savory side dish.

Butternut squash contains considerable amounts of fiber, which can help you keep a healthy weight and regulate bowel movements. It's known to help prevent colorectal cancer while the beta-carotene in butternut squash can also improve eye health.

Supports healthy digestion: The fiber in butternut squash helps maintain a healthy digestive system, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.