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Writer's pictureRajani Katta

Spaghetti Squash: A Skin Saving Side


A Skin Saving Food



I love spaghetti squash. First, because it has the most amazing appearance when it's cooked. Second, because it's an incredibly nutrient-dense food.


Just like many squashes, it packs a whole lots of nutrients into a low-calorie package.


  • Spaghetti squash is a good source of fiber, important in feeding the good gut microbes that keep our skin barrier functioning well and our immune system thriving.

  • It's also a great source of beta-carotene, which is very important for skin health. First, beta-carotene is an important antioxidant and is a key part of your skin's defense system against the free radicals produced by UV radiation, pollution, and just the processes of living.

  • Your body also uses beta-carotene to produce vitamin A, which is a key nutrient in cell turnover and differentiation.

  • Carotenoids also help produce a healthy glow to the skin






Cooked spaghetti squash with fibers that look like spaghetti
Spaghetti squash is an easy and nutritious skin saving vegetable



RECIPE


The Basics: Spaghetti squash is amazing. When cooked, its flesh looks just like strands of spaghetti. To cook, just cut in half and microwave.



Ingredients

 

One spaghetti squash (2 to 3 pounds)


2 tablespoons water



Directions

 

​

1. Slice squash in half lengthwise


2. Scoop out seeds and soft flesh from the center with a spoon


3. Place face down in a microwave-safe dish and add water


4. Microwave on high, approximately 12 minutes


5. Let cool, then scrape the flesh with a fork. This should be very easy to do.


6. The squash now looks like strands of spaghetti, and can be served as is.




 

Dr. Rajani Katta is the author of Glow: The Dermatologist's Guide to a Whole Foods Younger Skin Diet. To receive future updates on preventive dermatology and the role of diet, sign up here.

 

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