Lulo Fruit Benefits
Some of the Lulo fruit health benefits include its ability to improve the immune system, build strong bones, boost vision, regulate digestion, protect against certain cancers, increase circulation, detoxify the body, relieve stress, promote sleep, lower cholesterol, and even help avoid the development of diabetes.
What is Lulo?
Lulo is a citrus-like fruit that grows on a small shrub or tree. It is native to the northwest region of South America and has several names by which it is known. In Colombia, lulo is the accepted name, but in Panama and Ecuador (and parts of the United States), this delicious, tangy little fruit is called naranjilla. The scientific name of lulo is Solanum quitoense and the flavor is very distinctive and tart. Some people would compare it to a pineapple, or even a combination of lime and rhubarb. Different cultivars in different countries have slightly different tastes, as well as different concentrations of nutrients. The juice of lulo is a popular healthy drink, but the unusual green color of the juice may surprise some people.
Although the demand for lulo around the world is growing because of its unique, exotic flavor, unfortunately, it is a member of the nightshade family, which is notoriously fragile and is susceptible to bruising, discoloration, and insects/diseases. For this reason, mass cultivation is not really an option for it, so it remains a small-scale crop that has relatively low export levels.
To eat, cut the fruit in half and scoop out the two, white fleshy halves. The fruit can be eaten raw, or it can be cooked. However, it is most popularly added to jams, jellies, pies, and other desserts, as well as in ice cream flavoring and as the main ingredient in certain fruit juices and wines. Since lulo is somewhat difficult to acquire, many people go through the trouble. It is packed with nutrients and organic compounds that make it a very healthy addition to your fruit intake.
Nutritional Value of Lulo
Lulo fruit has been found to have high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine, as well as calcium, iron, phosphorous, dietary fiber, and very low levels of fats and calories. It also possesses many antioxidant qualities, although the exact antioxidant compounds have not been sufficiently studied.
Lulo Fruit Health Benefits
With a unique taste, it also provides a great range of health benefits to all. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Reduces Cholesterol
The combination of dietary fiber, which can help to eliminate dangerous, “bad” cholesterol from the body, and the rich variety of other vitamins and minerals can significantly improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and lower your chances of developing atherosclerosis, as well as lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Relieves Stress
Although research is ongoing in terms of the actual method of action for these health conditions, lulo has been connected with hormonal changes in the body that can improve mood, reduce stress, and even promote sleep for people suffering from insomnia and restless sleep disorders.
Improves Bone Strength
Strong bones are important at all stages of life, so a fruit like lulo, which has a rich diversity of minerals, including calcium, phosphorous, and iron, can significantly improve the density of a bone tissue, thereby preventing conditions like osteoporosis and even arthritis as we age.
Boosts Immunity
Being high in vitamin C and vitamin A, lulo is a wonderful way to boost your immune system. Vitamin C works as a natural antioxidant to clear out free radicals from your system, and also stimulates white blood cell production, which is the body’s first line of defense against infectious diseases and other pathogens. Also, vitamin C is integral for the development of collagen, which supports connective tissue, blood vessels, and organs.
Increases Circulation
The significant levels of iron that are found in lulo means that your red blood cell count will be increased, thereby boosting the circulation of your blood and increasing oxygenation to vital organ systems and cells. This can also improve the strength, growth rate, and texture of your hair by stimulating the follicle beds. Furthermore, improved cellular healing and regeneration can be achieved by boosting the amount of iron in your body.
