Get Ready for August 8

Enthusiastic novice gardeners often plant zucchini and are overwhelmed by the abundance. In honor of these folks, a clever gardener in Pennsylvania declared August 8, “National Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day.”

Living in Arizona, it’s unlikely you have an abundance of zucchini, but after recognizing its nutritional qualities, you may wish a neighbor would gift you some because, despite its mild flavor, zucchini is bursting with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and more nutritious benefits. The accompanying illustration shows zucchini’s nutritional basics, but it has even more to brag about. Here are 10 reasons to include zucchini in your vegetable rotation.

A medium zucchini provides about 30 percent of the RDA for vitamin C, supporting immunity and wound healing.

It is a good source of vitamin B6, essential for a healthy nervous system and brain health.

It is high in antioxidants, which counter inflammation.

Carotenoids in this squash, lutein and zeaxanthin, are linked with improved eye health. These antioxidants accumulate in the retina, helping to stave off age-related eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. The vitamin A in squash supports retina health and overall eye function.

Those same nutrients can help protect the skin from ultraviolet skin damage.

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The soluble fiber promotes healthy cholesterol levels.

The electrolytes potassium and magnesium support healthy blood pressure and natural heart rhythm.

The soluble fiber found in zucchini is beneficial for the healthy bacteria that reside in the lining of your gut, and the insoluble fiber acts as roughage for the digestive tract, supporting regularity.

Zucchini helps support bone health due to its magnesium, manganese and vitamin K content.

The high water content supports hydration.

When selecting zucchini, choose firm, slender ones that are bright green and free of wrinkled skin and soft spots. Store unwashed zucchini in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, for the best flavor, use it within two to three days.