What is the primary compound that gives butternut squash its orange color and converts to Vitamin A?
Answer
Beta-carotene
The vibrant orange hue of the squash flesh is directly attributed to a massive concentration of beta-carotene. This powerful carotenoid is recognized by the body as a precursor molecule, which it efficiently converts into Vitamin A upon consumption. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient crucial for maintaining optimal vision health, ensuring proper cell growth throughout various tissues, and supporting a robust immune system function. A single serving of butternut squash is substantial enough to supply significantly more than the required daily allowance of this critical vitamin.
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