Is Lychee The Next Superfruit? The Unexpected Benefits Of Consuming Lychee

While there are many ailments our bodies can go through, nature has given a cure for most of these issues. That is why when you are eating and building a meal plan, healthcare professionals often advise you to have a well-rounded meal with different varieties of food. Whole foods, especially fruits and vegetables, are essential for preventing chronic diseases.

While common fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges are great for smoothies and provide fiber, exploring other fruits can offer additional health benefits. Lychee is one such fruit, packed with unique antioxidants. Not only can you avail these benefits by eating them whole, you can also add it to different food items and enjoy the versatile fruit!

What Makes Lychee Special?

Lychees have a lot of proanthocyanidins, which a type of antioxidant that's linked to good health. A study showed these antioxidants are easy for our bodies to use, they are like superhero's that can fight damage to our cells. These things might help lower "bad" cholesterol, which is linked to heart problems. They might also help blood flow better, reduce swelling, and protect our cells' DNA. Other research suggests they might even help fight cancer by stopping it from growing and spreading. They also seem to help our bodies break down fat and improve "good" cholesterol. Another study found that something from lychees can help prevent blood clots. But it is important to remember that we need more studies to be sure about all these benefits for people.

Besides antioxidants, lychees have vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and some healthy fats. They also have other important vitamins. Besides their antioxidants, fermented lychees can also be good for your gut. A study showed that fermenting lychees with good bacteria makes them even healthier.

Ways To Incorporate Lychee In Your Diet

Lychees grow in the summer, but you might find them in some Asian markets all year round. You can also buy canned lychees to use in smoothies, drinks, and fruit salads. They taste great with other tropical fruits. While lychees are healthy, it's important to eat them as part of a balanced diet with lots of other healthy foods.

Lychee Smoothie

Blend fresh or canned lychees with other fruits like bananas, mangoes, or berries, along with yogurt or milk (dairy or non-dairy) for a creamy and refreshing smoothie. You can add a squeeze of lime or ginger for extra flavor.

Lychee Salad

Combine peeled and halved lychees with other fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or grapes for a tropical fruit salad. A light dressing of lime juice and honey or a sprinkle of mint can enhance the flavors. You can also add greens like arugula or spinach for a more substantial salad.

Lychee and Coconut Dessert

Combine lychees with coconut milk or cream, tapioca pearls, and a touch of sugar for a creamy and exotic dessert. You can serve it chilled or warm. Some variations include adding other tropical fruits or a hint of rosewater.

Lychee Curry

This is a savory dish that combines the sweetness of lychees with the spiciness of curry. You can add lychees to chicken, shrimp, or vegetable curries for a unique flavor profile. The sweetness of the lychees balances the savory curry spices beautifully.