What are the health benefits of Longan?
Longan, scientifically known as Dimocarpus longan, is a small tropical fruit originating from China and widely cultivated across Southeast Asia. The fruit has a round shape, with a thin brownish-red, leathery skin, white juicy flesh, and a large seed at the center. A 100-gram serving of fresh longan fruit contains approximately 60 calories, 15 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, and 0.1 grams of fat.
What makes longan fruit appealing beyond its taste is its numerous health benefits. In this article, we will look at some of the scientifically-proven health benefits of Longan fruit:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Longan fruit contains high levels of antioxidants, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids. These antioxidants help to scavenge free radicals, which can lead to chronic inflammation, linked to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. According to a study published in Food Science and Technology Research, polyphenols extracted from Longan fruit possessed strong antioxidant activities.
2. Boosts the Immune System
The compounds in Longan fruit, such as polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins, have immune-boosting properties. They may stimulate the production of white blood cells, enhancing the immune system’s functionality to fight infections and diseases. Polysaccharides extracted from Longan fruit were found to possess immunostimulatory effects, which help fight infections and diseases.
3. Enhances Brain Function
Longan fruit contains gallic acid, a compound that may protect the brain against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, the fruit contains a cognitive enhancing compound called 2-acetyl-5-tetrahydroxybutyl imidazole (THI), which helps to improve memory and learning by increasing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for learning and memory.
4. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Longan fruit contains flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol, and myricetin, which are cardio-protective. These flavonoids help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and decreasing oxidative stress. Longan fruit is also a potassium-rich food vital for healthy blood pressure regulation, reducing hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases’ risk.
5. Aids Digestion
Longan fruit has digestive properties that can help promote healthy bowel movements and reduce constipation risk. Its dietary fiber content promotes healthy gut microbiota diversity, supporting a healthier gastrointestinal tract.
6. Promotes Better Sleep
The compound saponins in Longan fruit have anti-anxiety effects, helping to relax and promote anxiety reduction, leading to better sleep. Longan fruit is also a rich source of magnesium, vital for promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
7. Promotes Skin Health
Longan fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for healthy skin, providing antioxidant protection against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Consuming Longan fruit regularly promotes healthy skin and reduces premature aging risk.
8. May Help in Weight Loss
Longan fruit is low in calories and contains dietary fiber, increasing satiety, reducing cravings, and leading to fewer calorie intakes, promoting weight loss.
9. May Help in Managing Diabetes
Longan fruit has a low glycemic index, not causing a spike in blood sugar levels, making it ideal for people with diabetes. Its flavonoids can improve insulin sensitivity, improving glucose metabolism and managing diabetes.
Conclusion
Longan fruit has numerous health benefits that cannot be ignored. The fruit is a rich source of antioxidants, immune-boosting compounds, dietary fiber, and skin-enriching vitamins and minerals, which all promote better overall health. Incorporating Longan fruit into your diet would be a great natural and delicious way to enjoy its benefits.