Hayote is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family along cucumber, squash and melons and is also known as sayote, pipinola, choko, vegetable pear and cho-cho in different parts of the world. The fruit has a nice green color and deep pokemarks on the skin and is commonly used in different meals in the Mesoamerican region. However, what many people don’t know is that chayote can fight a variety of diseases.

The chayote has nice crunchy flesh and can be eaten raw or cooked. It contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that can improve your overall health and support your body. In the past, it has been used to treat a variety of health problems including constipation, bone loss, thyroid problems and even cancer. Here are 10 health benefits of chayote you probably weren’t aware about:

Boosts your energy levels

Feeling tired and lacking energy? Just eat a plate of chayote omelet in the morning. The manganese in the veggie will help the body convert protein and fat to energy and provide you with a nice energy boost that will last all day long.

Great for tired legs

Lack of potassium in the body can make your legs feel tired and heavy. Luckily, consuming chayote can fix it as it is full of this mineral and others

Great for your heart

Chayote is full of folate, a vitamin from the B group that can prevent the accumulation of homocysteine in the blood. According to studies, homocysteine is the main trigger for higher risk of stroke and heart disease.

Great for your brain

Thanks to the abundance of vitamin B6, consuming chayote regularly can improve the function of your brain and even boost your memory.

Prevents constipation

The high amount of fiber in the fruit means it can improve your digestion and prevent problems such as constipation.

Prevents acne

Chayote is a rich source of zinc, a mineral that can regulate your hormones and the production of oil in your skin, effectively preventing acne and similar skin problems.

Keeps your thyroid health

Eating chayote every day will keep your thyroid working properly and prevent problems such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism which can have serious consequences on your health.

Prevents bone loss

Chayote will provide your body with a lot of vitamin K which will prevent bone loss and fractures.

May assist in the prevention of cancer

Although there’s no solid proof yet, some studies have suggested that the vitamin C in chayote can slow down or stop the spread of cancer due to its ability to scavenge free radicals.

Prevents leg cramps

Chayote is an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral which is highly important for our muscles and bones. Consuming the fruit regularly can prevent leg cramps and reduce the pain in your legs as well.