Date: 05/31/2025 06/01/2025
Location: Star River Meditation Center
Teacher: Yunquan Huang
Buddhist Diet and Regimen
Chayote
Chayote: A Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense Refreshing Vegetable
1. What is Chayote?
Chayote (Sechium edule), also known as vegetable pear or mirliton, is a gourd-family vegetable with a unique wrinkled, hand-like shape. It has a crisp texture and mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in stir-fries, soups, and salads. Chayote is highly nutritious yet low in calories, making it a great choice for a healthy diet.
2. Nutritional Value of Chayote
Chayote is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. Key nutrients include:
1.Dietary Fiber: Supports digestion and improves gut health.
2.Vitamin C: Boosts immunity, enhances skin health, and has antioxidant properties.
3.Folate: Essential for cell growth and particularly beneficial for pregnant women.
4.Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and maintain electrolyte balance.
5.Low Calories: Extremely low in calories, making it ideal for weight management.
3. Health Benefits of Chayote
1.Aids Digestive Health: High fiber content promotes gut microbiota balance and digestion.
2.Supports Heart Health: Rich in potassium, helping to regulate blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risks.
3.Boosts Immunity: Vitamin C and antioxidants enhance the body’s defense system.
4.Helps Regulate Blood Sugar: Low glycemic index (GI) food, beneficial for blood sugar stability.
5.Assists in Weight Management: Low-calorie and fiber-rich, chayote increases satiety while maintaining a balanced diet.
4. Best Ways to Eat Chayote
1.Chayote Salad: Thinly sliced and tossed with sesame and vinegar for a fresh and crisp dish.
2.Stir-Fried Chayote: Lightly sautéed to retain its natural sweetness.
3.Chayote Soup: Simmered with tofu and mushrooms for a nutritious broth.
4.Steamed Chayote: Served with light dressing to preserve its original flavor.
5.Chayote Porridge: Cooked with millet or brown rice for an easily diestible meal.
5. Interesting Facts About Chayote
How to Choose the Best Chayote?
Look for firm, smooth-skinned, bright green chayotes.
Should Chayote Be Peeled?
The skin is thin and edible, but older chayotes may need peeling.
Can Chayote Be Eaten Raw?
Yes, it has a refreshing, crisp texture and is rich in vitamin C when eaten raw.
Conclusion
Chayote is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Regular consumption promotes digestion, supports heart health, boosts immunity, regulates blood sugar, and assists in weight management. Whether enjoyed in salads, stir-fries, soups, or porridges, chayote is a nutritious and versatile addition to a healthy diet.
