Known as the “gold of the Incas”, in South America the fruit of lucuma is considered a symbol of fertility and abundance because of its peculiar therapeutic virtues.
Lucuma is a typical fruit of Central America, but especially of Peru where it was used in sacred celebrations in honor of fertility. This characteristic fruit is considered a super food for its richness in beta-carotene, iron, zinc and vitamin B, in addition to calcium and proteins.
Science has caught sight of lucuma and in the course of research has highlighted the enormous positive effects on human health. There is even talk of the ability to protect the heart, eyes and counteract any type of inflammation.
In addition to this, lucuma is currently considered the healthiest sweetener in the world thanks to its very low glycemic index. This is why the lucuma of the Incas is a valuable alternative to sugar.
Lucuma, what it is and what does it taste like
This miraculous fruit South American is part of the family of sapotaceae and it is native of Peru, but it is also present in Ecuador and Chile.
Its shape resembles that of an avocado, its skin is very thin and bright green. The pulp instead has an intense orange color, especially when ripe, it is floury and compact. Inside, it has one or two smooth and round seeds.
The flavor of lucuma is quite particular, as it partly resembles mango and partly apricot. The orange pulp therefore has an intense and sweet taste. This sweetness has made it a perfect sweetener for cakes, ice cream, smoothies and for any preparation that requires a sugary intake.
Properties of the fruit
“The gold of the Incas” was so called for its nutritional and vitamin richness. Lucuma provides the 14 essential trace elements for the proper functioning of the human body. Among these we find:
a) Vitamins C and B: the first is one of the most important antioxidants that can be found in nature; B vitamins are essential for the liver, for the transformation of carbohydrates into glucose, they bring niacin useful for the functioning of the nervous system.
b) Betacarotene: Source of vitamin A, it helps the body to produce energy and stimulate the production of retinol, thus improving vision health.
c) Mineral salts: source of iron, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. All these elements are important for strengthening bone tissue and regulating the acidity of the tissues.
d) Fiber: source of complex carbohydrates that favor the correct functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
The benefits of lucuma
Incorporating this amazing food into our diet will help us support our body in various ways. Let’s see how and why.
a) Skin regeneration: Scientific studies have stated that lucuma helps in the regeneration of skin cells and keeps it healthy. The application of lucuma oil promotes wound healing and scarring.
b) Low glycemic index: as we have said, due to its low glycemic indica, the lucuma of the Incas is a precious alternative to sugar. If you have diabetes or are insulin resistant, lucuma is perfect because it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to rise.
c) Well-being of the intestine: eating lucuma helps in digestion and promotes the speeding up of metabolism.
d) Cardiovascular system and pressure: lucuma promotes the functioning of the circulatory system and slows down cellular degeneration. For the pressure, also in this case the lucuma inhibits the hypertension.
e) Reinforcement for bones and teeth: thanks to calcium and phosphorus.
f) Anti-inflammatory: the lucuma extract would be capable of disinfecting our body.
g) Strengthens the immune system and counteracts stress.
A valuable alternative to sugar
The pulp of the lucuma is dried in order to be used as an ingredient for drinks and sweet preparations. It is totally gluten-free and has a minimal glycemic index. Lucuma is a food suitable for both diabetics and those intolerant and allergic to gluten.
As a sweetener, the fruit is dried at low temperatures, powdered and used in addition to beverages or other preparations. The taste is very similar to brown sugar, so it has a slight hint of caramel.
Due to the large supply of minerals and vitamins, lucuma is a good dietary supplement to be taken every day between 1 or 2 teaspoons of powder in water or juice. Its sweetness, mixed with the great nutritional contribution make this fruit very powerful.
