lychee fruit
Lychee Fruit
The exotic lychee fruit has been called a 'gift for a joyful life' by the Chinese for several reasons. Find out more about this fruit and its health benefits from the following article.
A lychee fruit has a hard and rough exterior, which when peeled reveals a pearly white flesh. Wrapped over a single, large seed, this fruit is a royal treat for the taste buds and makes for a great choice for those who generally don't enjoy fruits. Along with its rich taste, the lychee fruit also gives you a host of health benefits.
Facts
- The lychee fruit has an Oriental origin and is widely grown in southern China and southeast Asia. It has been cultivated for over 2000 years.
- The tree can grow up to 40 feet in height, and requires warm, humid climate along with lower temperatures for proper growth. The warm weather is essential for the development of the fruit, while the lower temperatures are required for the development of the flower bud.
- In appearance, it has a rough and firm exterior and texture. Under this skin is the flesh that is slightly rounded or heart-shaped, and has a length of about 1-1½ inches. It is translucent and juicy.
- The seed of this fruit is toxic; while the fruit itself is a great aid for digestion, the seed can cause harm to the digestive system. Ensure that you do not consume the seed.
- Apart from being eaten fresh, this fruit can also be eaten in the dried form. When eaten dried, it gives a smoky flavor. It is also available in a canned form.
- The lychee fruit is extremely rich in a variety of nutrients. The prime nutrient is vitamin C. It provides about 72 mg of this vitamin per 100 grams.
- It is a great source of potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- It is extremely low in calories; one lychee has only 7 calories. Even those who are aiming for weight loss can enjoy this fruit.
- The juice of this fruit helps in keeping the body hydrated.
- Consuming lychee is very beneficial for maintaining digestive health. Since it is rich in fibers, it works well to keep the stomach clear of harmful toxins and prevents constipation. It also has the ability to cleanse the colon.
- It is a natural diuretic and helps relieve pain caused due to kidney stones.
- The high vitamin C content in it makes this fruit extremely beneficial for our bone and skin health.
- It also strengthens the body's immune system and the ability to fight different types of diseases.
- Lychee fruit extract is great for those looking for lose weight around the abdomen, and for those who aim to improve their body metabolism.
- Eating lychees protects one from potential heart attacks. It clears out blood clots and keeps the cells healthy.
- It contains fatty acids that are essential in order to absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Hence, it aids in digestion of other healthy foods.
- Recent studies have shown that lychees have the ability to prevent cancer. This holds true mainly for breast cancer.
- Lastly, instead of opting for a cola, a cup of coffee, or a sugary treat for an energy boost, try having a couple of lychees and notice the difference it makes to your overall energy level.