2. It Contributes to Brain Health The perks of summer squash go beyond taste. Its high in manganese, which is a mineral not found in meat or dairy. Its been shown to boost memory and help heal wounds. Shutterstock
3. Its Creamier Than a Banana Next time you want to add a creamy dimension to your smoothie recipes , skip the banana and use squash instead. Squash is a magical filler thats really low in sugar and high in potassium, A and C vitamins, and fiber, says Tanenbaum. The fiber considerably boosts the good-for-you quotient of your smoothie, while also giving it a luscious body. Related: 13 Foods That Have More Potassium Than a Banana Shutterstock
4. Its Good For Your Eyes Yellow squash is a boon for your eyes, loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that promote eye health. The antioxidants are concentrated in the skin, so just throw the whole thing inseeds, skins, and all. Related: 10 Things Your Eyes Say About You Shutterstock
5. Its High In Folate A cup of summer squash contains 35 micrograms (about 9 percent of the recommended daily intake) of folate, which promotes sperm viability and decreases your risk of colon cancer and stroke. Pair it with folate-rich foods , such as papaya, raspberries , and spinach, for a delicious and healthy blend. The article The Surprising Vegetable Thats Better Than A Banana In Smoothies originally ran on RodalesOrganicLife.com. Shutterstock