6 Surprising Benefits of Lucuma Powder

The lucuma fruit, also popularly known as the Peruvian fruit, belongs to the Sapotaceae family. The plant is native to the Andean regions of Bolivia and Peru in South America, where it is primarily grown throughout the summer. 

• The fruits range from tiny to larger and are oval in form.
• Their peel is very smooth and thin, and they range in hue from dark to light green. 
• The flavor of the lucuma fruit is distinct and sweet, and it is best eaten fresh. 

The Peruvian fruit lucuma may be dried and ground into a nutritious powder. It is a fantastic alternative sweetener with the flavor of creamy citrus and maple syrup, making it highly diverse in recipes.

Here are six surprising benefits of lucuma powder:

1. Regulates blood sugar levels:
   • Lucuma's low glycemic index aids in the maintenance of stable blood sugar levels as it digests slowly. 
   • The fruit contains soluble fiber, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
   • Fruit fiber may also increase insulin sensitivity. 
   • It inhibits the activity of enzymes such as alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). 
   • These enzymes digest carbohydrates and can considerably increase post-prandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels. 
   • As a result, blocking them aids in the management of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and hypertension (high blood pressure) associated with type II diabetes.
2. Rich in antioxidants:
   • Lucuma contains antioxidants, which are potent substances that protect your cells from harm produced by extremely reactive molecules known as free radicals.
   • A diet high in antioxidants may aid in the prevention of health issues such as heart disease and some malignancies.
   • Research suggests that lucuma is notably strong in polyphenols and carotenoids—two antioxidant groups recognized for their anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting, and heart-healthy effects.
   • It is especially strong in lutein, a carotenoid group that gives lucuma its yellow color and is said to promote eye health and eyesight.
   • Lucuma is also high in vitamin C—an antioxidant-rich substance that plays several key roles in your body, including supporting eyesight, a healthy immune system, and heart health.
   • Furthermore, polyphenols in lucuma have potent anti-inflammatory properties against chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
   • However, research on the individual antioxidants found in lucuma is limited, and additional research is needed to properly grasp the fruit's potential antioxidant effects.
3. Heart health:
   • Lucuma may provide some protection against heart disease, owing to its high polyphenol content.
   • Polyphenols are plant chemicals that are thought to protect against high blood pressure and heart disease.
   • Studies have reported that lucuma can inhibit the function of ACE, an enzyme involved in blood pressure management.
   • As a result, lucuma may help reduce blood pressure.
   • Although the first findings are encouraging, additional study is needed to establish these advantages for human heart health.
4. Good source of fiber:
   • Lucuma is a great source of fiber.
   • You may receive the benefits of lucuma even after it has been dried and processed into a superfine powder.
   • Lucuma powder contains about 2.3 grams of dietary fiber per 100-gram serving, which aids in digestion, prevents constipation, and improves intestinal health. 
5. May reduce cancer risk:
   • The range of antioxidants found in lucuma may help fight some malignancies. 
   • Beta-sitosterol, a lucuma component, is an anticancer nutrient. 
   • Unlike chemotherapy, it appears to be nontoxic (although it is less powerful). 
   • Gallic acid in lucuma works as an antioxidant and may help prevent cancer. 
   • Pectin and tannins are also present in the fruit. Pectin has an antitumor effect, but tannins may dramatically inhibit tumor cell growth and proliferation.
6. Improves skin health:
   • Lucuma contains vitamin C and beta-carotene (a vitamin A derivative), both of which help maintain skin health. 
   • Vitamin C boosts collagen formation while also protecting the skin from UVB radiation. 
   • Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant with photoprotective effects.

Additionally, lucuma contains other nutrients such as:

• Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
• Niacin (vitamin B3)

When taken in moderation, lucuma powder is harmless. Because there are no known adverse effects, do not overdo it. If you develop any negative side effects while taking this product, discontinue use immediately and see your doctor. 

• When consumed in excessive quantities, it can produce major adverse effects such as:
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach discomfort
• Pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid using this supplement.