Chayote the Great!

Have you tried this fruit?! 

The chayote (Sechium edule) is another amazing fruit that comes to us from Mesoamerica. From the cucurbitaceae family along with cucumbers, gourds and melons, this delicate fruit grows in tropical and sub-tropical climates on a perennial vine. 

 Also known as the choko or vegetable pear, its flavor is light, crisp and squash like.

This is a wonderful fruit to know for expectant mothers of those who plan to conceive! Its high folate (B9) is essential for brain and spinal cord development of baby in utero! This same mineral helps treat anemia, a condition found quite common in melanated and mal-nourished peoples for optimal blood health. 

In addition to the high folate, this wonderful fruit contains 14% of  the recommended daily soluble fiber. This also serves the blood & heart well. A chemical found in the plant called myricetin, helps lower cholesterol allowing for better circulation and a lesser chance of heart disease. Myricetin pairs well with a high vitamin C levels  to offer a strong anti-oxidant property. This makes it exceptionally good for fighting the affects of aging, cancer, diabetes and general inflammation. 

This should be added to the diets of anyone with liver ailments as it has been shown to improve the livers function by preventing fat accumulation thereby preventing fatty liver disease. 

If we are to learn from our ancestors, the traditional uses of the fruit in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and the Philippines include a tea that is common for treating urinary issues (fluid retention & burning), kidney stones and high blood pressure.

This fruit can be found at international or specialty grocery stores!