Impressive Natural Health Benefits Of Lychee
On one hand, we have the scorching heat draining out all our energy and on the other, we have vibrant fruits of the season that give us a good reason to love summers. Mangoes, melons and watermelons have already found their way into our fruit
baskets, it is now time for lychees to make their way. Lychee or litchi
is a soft, whitish-pink coloured pulpy fruit, that is cultivated in
tropical and sub-tropical regions and is available for a very short
period of time during the summer season. From boosting your immune system to aiding blood circulation,
this juicy and delicious fruit boasts of many health benefits.
According to Nutritionist Simran Saini, “Lychee has a high dose of
Vitamin C which helps restore your immunity, and keeps your skin healthy. It is also rich in Vitamin D. With its high water
content, it is a great fruit to keep you hydrated during this hot
weather.” Here are some other health benefits of lychee that you can
enjoy while you gorge on this sweet delight.
Lychee Nutrition Facts
Litchis have a high nutritional value.
They are very rich in vitamin C, containing about 71.5 mg per 100
grams. They are also rich in copper and phosphorus. What makes litchis
unique is that they contain the polyphenol oligonol that has antioxidant
and antiviral properties.
For a more detailed overview of the nutritional value of litchis, refer to the chart below.
| Principle | Nutrient Value | Percentage of RDA |
|---|
| Energy | 66 kcal | 3.3% |
| Carbohydrates | 16.53 g | 12.7% |
| Protein | 0.83 g | 1.5% |
| Total Fat | 0.44 g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 3.5% |
| Vitamins |
|---|
| Folates | 14 µg | 3.5% |
| Niacin | 0.603 mg | 3.5% |
| Choline | 7.1 mg | 1% |
| Pyridoxine | 0.100 mg | 9% |
| Riboflavin | 0.065 mg | 5% |
| Thiamin | 0.011 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 0 mg | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 71.5 mg | 119% |
| Vitamin E | 0.07 mg | 0.5% |
| Vitamin K | 0.4 µg | 0.3% |
| Electrolytes |
|---|
| Sodium | 1 mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 171 mg | 3.5% |
| Minerals |
|---|
| Calcium | 5 mg | 0.5% |
| Copper | 0.148 mg | 16% |
| Iron | 0.31 mg | 4% |
| Magnesium | 10 mg | 2.5% |
| Manganese | 0.055 mg | 2.5% |
| Phosphorus | 31 mg | 4.5% |
| Selenium | 0.6 µg | 1% |
| Zinc | 0.07 mg | 0.5% |
| Phyto-nutrients |
|---|
| Carotene-ß | 0 µg | — |
| Crypto-xanthin-ß | 0 µg | — |
| Lutein-zeaxanthin | 0 µg |
Natural Health Benefits Of Lychee :
1. Healthy Digestion
Lychees are rich in dietary fibers, which are necessary for regular
bowel movements. This keeps the intestinal tract and the GI tract
healthy. Regular bowel movements ensure the body is constantly ridding
itself of toxins and also helps bulk up the stool and prevent diarrhea. A
healthy digestive system makes sure the body is absorbing adequate
nutrients for functioning properly. It also acts as a stimulator of
gastric and digestive juices.
2. Prevent Cancer
Lychees are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that protect the body
from oxidative stress. Free radicals damage the D.N.A on a cellular
level and cause cancerous cells to grow. Lychee has polyphenols and
proanthocyanidins, which have a powerful effect on cancerous growths and
cancer-causing antibodies. The free radicals can affect metabolism on a
cellular level and can lead to death. Cancerous growths can be avoided
by an antioxidant-rich diet and prevention is much better than cure.
3. Antimicrobial
Lychees are high in antimicrobial properties; these help the body
create a stronger barrier against viral infections. Proanthocyanins and
Litchiannin A2 act as strong antiviral agents to keep the body healthy.
It protects the respiratory system from infections and even calms down
symptoms associated with asthma. Lychees have been found to have a
negative effect on viruses such as herpes simplex and coxsackievirus.
4. Manage Blood Pressure
Lychees help moderate and balance blood flow in the body. Potassium
is an excellent vasodilator and can keep the heart healthy by relaxing
all the arteries. It is low in sodium, which helps maintain fluid
balance and keep the metabolic functions of the body in place. It
protects the body by preventing restriction of blood vessels and also
arteries.
5. Improving Blood Circulation
Lychee has a good amount of iron and copper, which act as stimulators
for the circulation of blood. Deficiency of these compounds can cause
severe fatigue and be harmful to the body as the body needs proper
oxygenation to function. This ensures all parts of the body are
receiving adequate nutrients. Lychees are nutrient dense and have a good
combination of vitamins and minerals, which helps balance the flow of
blood throughout the body.
6. Heals Colds and Flu
Influenza can lead to severe health issues such as pneumonia and
common colds are extremely uncomfortable as well as weaken the body’s
immune system. Lychees are rich in phenolic acids, which protect the
body from viruses such as influenza and common colds. Ascorbic acid
present in lychee protects the respiratory system from infections and
viruses.
7. Immunity Booster
A healthy immune system is necessary for the body to stay protected
from viral infections and prevent chronic and fatal illnesses from
taking roots. Health shots often contain a higher amount of vitamin C as
it is the most powerful immunity-boosting vitamin. Lychees contain an
impressive 71.5 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams of serving. This can
protect the body from within and promote healthy cell regeneration.
8. Source of Oligonol
Oligonol
is a molecular compound found in abundance in lychees that further
breaks down into many antioxidants. This promotes blood circulation and
also protects the body from harmful UVA and UVB rays.This is also very
effective in reducing fat as it targets fat directly while increasing
stamina.
9. Anti-aging
As time progresses our bodies’ age physically and internally. A diet
rich in antioxidants and vitamin C can ensure a slower aging process
while promoting overall health. Lychees are a good source of vitamin C,
which is a necessary component of the anti-aging diet regime. Vitamin C
can improve elasticity and production of collagen leading to better
radiant and supple skin.
10. Vitamin B
Often thought is found only in animal products, vitamin B contributes
largely to our energy levels. Lychees are rich in B-vitamins such as
thiamine, riboflavin, and folates, which have a huge effect on viruses
and the body’s nutrient absorption. Beta-carotene is also a derivative
of vitamin B that strengthens the immune system along with strengthening
the hair nails and protecting the eyes.
11. Nutritional Strengths
Lychees contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that can help you
plough through all that pollution and daily stress. Being vitamin
deficient can lead to a slew of medical problems and expensive treatment
plants. Just eat a couple of lychees before or after lunch or dinner
and you will be able to incorporate a healthy dose of vitamin C, phytonutrients, vitamin B-complex and various antioxidants.
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