Gastroenterologist Evgeny Belousov has recommended zucchini as an accessible daily staple to support heart, muscle, and nervous system health in comments to news outlet Lenta.ru.
Dr Belousov explained that the summer squash provides key nutrients including potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamin C, making it a valuable addition to everyday meal plans for people across Russia.
According to the specialist, the combination of dietary fiber and high water content in zucchini helps maintain regular bowel function. Potassium content plays an essential role in supporting the heart, muscles, and nervous system while participating in the regulation of blood pressure.
Dr Belousov added that vitamin C contained in the vegetable functions as an antioxidant and is beneficial for the immune system. Zucchini also contains folates, magnesium, and small amounts of additional vitamins and minerals.
Cholesterol management and dietary balance
However, Dr Belousov cautioned that people should not expect zucchini on its own to reduce cholesterol levels. He stressed that the vegetable does not lower cholesterol directly, describing its contribution to cardiovascular health as indirect.
He explained that the high fiber content and low calorie count of zucchini help structure a daily diet that contains fewer saturated fats and a higher proportion of plant foods. For a pronounced reduction in bad cholesterol, Dr Belousov emphasized that a person's overall diet and medical treatments prescribed by a doctor are far more decisive.
Nutritional profile and medical context
Dr Belousov practices as a gastroenterologist at JSC Medicina, also known as the Academician Roitberg Clinic, a prominent medical center in Moscow. He holds the academic degree of Candidate of Medical Sciences, an advanced research credential in the Russian medical education system.
Zucchini, a variety of summer squash harvested while its skin remains tender, is widely grown in Russian kitchen gardens and sold in local markets. Nutritionists frequently recommend summer squash for healthy eating because it is low in calories and composed mainly of water while supplying essential micronutrients.
Potassium serves as a vital electrolyte needed by human cells to control fluid balance and transmit nerve signals, whereas dietary fiber supports gut motility and digestive microbiome health. Antioxidants such as vitamin C help protect tissue from cellular damage caused by oxidative stress.
Previous dietary advice
The gastroenterologist's recommendations build on earlier advice from nutritionist Anton Polyakov, who previously discussed the health benefits of summer squash. Polyakov noted that zucchini has a particularly beneficial effect on the human digestive system.
Medical experts continue to encourage incorporating affordable, nutrient-rich vegetables into balanced diets alongside regular health consultations with medical practitioners.
