Nutrition

One cup of sliced, boiled zucchini with skin has 27 calories, 2 g protein, 2 g fiber, 5 g carbohydrates and 1 g fat, according to the USDA. Vitamins and minerals include 2,011 international units (IU) vitamin A, 23 mg vitamin C, 50 mcg folate, 0.3 mg manganese, 475 mg potassium and 32 mg calcium.

Benefits

This serving of zucchini provides 86 percent of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2,333 IU of vitamin A for women, and 67 percent of the RDA of 3,000 IU for men. Vitamin A promotes healthy eyesight, skin and lung function. Zucchini also provides vitamin C, an antioxidant vitamin that may help prevent the cellular damage caused by environmental toxins and harmful chemical processes within your body. Vitamin C may also support your immune system and promote respiratory health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Zucchini also offers potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain your fluid balance and normalizes your blood pressure.

Weight Management

One cup of sliced, boiled zucchini has 171 g water and 2 g fiber, according to the USDA. The fiber and moisture in zucchini, combined with its low-calorie content, make it a low-energy food, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Low-energy foods help you control your appetite and manage your weight by filling you up with water and fiber. Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and other low-energy foods allows you to consume a higher volume of food with fewer calories and less fat.



Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/334127-the-health-benefits-of-zucchini/#ixzz2L109kQpc