Which compound lends squash its signature orange or yellow hue and functions as an antioxidant to protect the skin against damage from free radicals?
Answer
Beta-carotene.
The vibrant coloration seen in many squash varieties, particularly the orange and yellow flesh, is a direct indicator of a high concentration of specific phytonutrients, chief among them being beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is not only a precursor to Vitamin A but also functions powerfully as an antioxidant within the body. This antioxidant capability allows it to seek out and neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules resulting from metabolic processes or environmental insults like UV exposure—thereby offering a defensive layer of protection to the skin.
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