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Chayote is a thin-skinned squash originally from Mexico. A member of the gourd family, the bumpy green fruit is commonly available in the Southwestern United States, but it remains a novelty item in much of the country. All parts of the gourd are edible, including the seeds, skin, and flowers. The chayote’s pale green flesh is crisp when raw and softens when cooked. Beloved for its cucumber-like mild, cool, and slightly sweet flavor, chayote is a refreshing food that packs a nutritional punch.
Also known as vitamin B9, folate is vital for the development of the fetal brain and spinal cord. Folate may also help to prevent preterm births. Chayote may contain compounds that protect against fat buildup in the liver, which can cause fatty liver disease. Studies have found the squash can help reduce fatty acid deposits in livers and lower cholesterol levels. The food might also help improve the body’s metabolism and ability to process fats. Researchers have found that phytochemicals in chayote can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure levels, which supports traditional Mexican use of the fruit to treat heart disease. Chayote is relatively low in carbohydrates and relatively high in fiber, a nutritional combination that can help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels.