Lucuma Powder

What is lucuma powder? 

The South American lucuma tree produces the lucuma fruit, also referred to as lucmo or eggfruit. The fruit, which was once referred to as the "gold of the Incas," is grown in Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. The fruit possesses a pale yellow interior, a dried consistency, and a rigid green exoskeleton, resembling a hybrid of an avocado and a mango in appearance.

Although lucuma fruit is abundant in South America, Latin American food markets also carry it in fresh, refrigerated, or purée form. While lucuma powder (or flour) is widely available in health food stores in other regions, it can be quite pricey. The fruit is dehydrated and then milled into a fine powder in order to produce the powder while preserving its high nutritional value. It is immediately usable and can be incorporated into beverages and foods.

How do I use lucuma powder?

Utilized as a flavoring agent, lucuma powder imparts a distinct maple-like flavor and a subtle suggestion of sweetness to food. Chia pudding, nut milks, oatmeal, smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, and Peruvian lucuma ice cream are all popular applications, and it can be substituted for sugar in a variety of baked products.

Lucuma powder benefits:

The health advantages associated with lucuma powder primarily stem from its antioxidant content, which safeguards bodily cells against free radicals generated during cellular metabolism. Prolonged exposure to free radicals may result in the development of critical illnesses, including cancer. Additionally, lucuma is renowned for its ample fiber content. Fiber promotes appropriate digestive system function. Insufficient quantities of various vitamins and minerals are present in negligible proportions to constitute substantial sources of these nutrients. 

◉ Diabetes Control: According to one study, lucuma extracts effectively prevent hypertension (high blood pressure) and blood sugar increases associated with type 2 diabetes. Complex carbohydrates (fiber and polysaccharides) predominate in lucuma compared to simple carbohydrates (sugars). Complex carbohydrates, being more difficult to metabolize than simple carbohydrates, are consequently less likely to cause blood sugar surges; lucuma, in particular, is more diabetic-friendly than many sweeteners. 

One method for determining the effect carbohydrates have on blood sugar levels, the glycemic index, is a crucial component of meal planning for individuals with diabetes. There have been assertions that lucuma powder exhibits a lower glycemic index, thereby potentially facilitating the regulation of blood sugar levels.

However, the proportion of complex to simple carbohydrates is only one factor that can influence the glycemic index score; therefore, it is impossible to affirm or refute Lucuma's low score without conducting additional research.

◉ Prevents Constipation: The fruit of the lucuma plant is rich in insoluble dietary fiber. This type of fiber aids in waste elimination and adds volume to defecation.

◉ Protects Against Cancer and Heart Disease: Lucuma is an excellent source of carotenoids and polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can aid in the prevention of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

◉ Contains a variety of antioxidants: Lucuma is rich in antioxidants, which are potent compounds that aid in cellular protection against harm inflicted by free radicals, which are exceptionally reactive molecules. A diet abundant in antioxidants may provide protection against cardiovascular disease and specific malignancies.

For example, scientific investigations indicate that lucuma is exceptionally abundant in polyphenols and carotenoids, which are antioxidant classes recognized for their capacity to combat cancer, promote cardiac health, and inhibit inflammation. Lucuma is notably abundant in xanthophylls, a class of carotenoids that contribute to its yellow hue and are believed to enhance visual acuity and ocular health.

Lucuma is also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant nutrient that supports vision, cardiac health, and a robust immune system, among other vital functions within the body. Furthermore, it is widely believed that the polyphenols present in lucuma provide robust protection against chronic ailments such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Further research is required to completely comprehend the potential antioxidant benefits of lucuma, as there is a paucity of information regarding the precise antioxidants present in this fruit.  

Where can I buy lucuma powder?

Buy lucuma powder from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals.

Lucuma powder information (at a glance):