Loquats are small, round fruits that grow in clusters and are native to China but can now be found in other parts of the world. Their colours vary from yellow to red-orange depending on variety and have a sweet flavour when consumed ripe. Loquats are nutrient-rich with a wide range of vitamins and minerals including provitamin A, vitamin B6, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and manganese. Here are the health benefits of loquats.
Packed with plant compounds
Loquats have two highly beneficial plant compounds, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. Research shows that carotenoids enhance the immune system, reduce inflammation and protect against eye diseases.
Beta-carotene, in particular, has been shown to lower the risk of certain cancers, mainly colorectal and lung cancer. Phenolic compounds have antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties which safeguard against several health conditions including diabetes and heart disease.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Loquat fruits, leaves and seeds have been shown to reduce inflammation. This is important because inflammation is linked to a range of serious illnesses including heart disease, brain ailments and diabetes. Traditionally loquats were used to treat respiratory conditions linked to inflammation such as asthma.
Studies have found that the leaf extracts have anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce chronic bronchitis.
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Reduce cancer risk
Animal studies show that the leaves and seeds have anti-cancer properties. Methanol extracts from loquats were found to be effective in preventing the spread of human breast cancer cells. The fruits contain compounds that suppress cancer growth and acid that prevents the spread of human colon cancer cells by killing the diseased cells.
Manage diabetes
Diabetes is an illness in which the body does not produce enough insulin or develops a resistance to insulin. This can lead to high blood sugar for type 1 diabetes and low blood sugar for type 2 people.
Studies show that extracts from the leaves of loquats can help prevent and control both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This is because the fruit has properties that can lower blood sugar and increase insulin levels.
Promote heart health
Their high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants may help boost heart health. The potassium and magnesium in loquats are essential for blood pressure regulation and the proper functioning of arteries. Drinking loquat tea may also potentially lower LDL “bad” cholesterol which is a risk factor for heart disease. This is important because high blood pressure is a key factor in the development of heart disease.
Carotenoids and phenolic compounds also protect against heart disease by reducing inflammation and preventing cellular damage. Studies reveal that people who eat more carotenoid-rich foods like loquats have significantly lower risks of heart disease than those who don’t.
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Aid in digestion
Loquats have pectin which is a type of dietary fibre. Dietary fibre bulks up stool which helps with the regularity of bowel movements. Food rich in dietary fibre may be beneficial for people suffering from digestive issues like constipation, diarrhoea, cramping, bloating and other stomach disorders. Eating more fibre also keeps you feeling fuller for longer stopping you from reaching for unhealthy snacks between meals.
Loquats are easy to add to your diet because they are just eaten raw when ripe. They can also be made into beverages, jams, and sauces. The seeds can also be roasted and used as a coffee substitute.
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