Lychee, also called lichee, li zhi, liche, liechee, and licthi, is a fruit from the genus Litchi in the soapberry family called Sapindaceae. Native in China, lychee is now grown in various parts of the globe. The fruit is known for its whitish pulp, along with its floral scent and sweet flavor. Lycheese are often eaten fresh, because the canning process removes its perfume-like aroma. As a fruit, lychee has the following health benefits.
General Nutrients
Lychee is rich in vitamins and minerals. According to Nutrition and You, the fruit contains vitamins A, C, E, and K. Vitamin A is great for the vision and it promotes the integrity of the skin and the mucus membranes. Also, the vitamin acts as an antioxidant; it helps the body get rid of unwanted and toxic substances like free radicals. On the other hand, vitamin C is known for its ability to raise the body’s defenses against infection and illness. The vitamin also boosts the function of the substance collagen, which acts as cement and binds loosely connected cells and tissues. Vitamin E play a role in skin health and just like vitamin A, it also serves as the body antioxidant. Meanwhile, vitamin K is vital in wound healing, as it promotes blood clotting to prevent excessive blood loss.
In terms of minerals, lychee contains copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc.
Lychee, Blood Circulation, and Blood Pressure
Lychee also helps promote cardiovascular health. According to Organic Facts, copper in lychee is responsible for improving a person’s blood flow and boost the oxygenation of the cells and organs. Also, lychee is low in sodium, which means water retention is unlikely. Since the body is not holding too much fluid, the heart workload is not heavy; thus, a healthy blood pressure is maintained.
Lychee and Weight Management
Lychee also helps manage weight, particularly lose weight. According to Nutrition and You, the fruit contains a low molecular weight polyphenol called oligonol. It has antioxidant and anti-influenza actions and it contributes to the improvement of blood flow to organs, allowing them to carry-out their metabolic processes; thus, helping reduce weight. Also, oligonol helps defend the skin from ultraviolet rays.
Sample Recipe
Lychee can be easily added to various meals, such as Lychee Glazed Roast Chicken. According to Lychees Online, the ingredients include three tablespoons of lychee or rice wine, three tablespoons of lychee honey, two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, half cup of chunky lychee jam, half teaspoon of white pepper, one roasting chicken (cleaned), half teaspoon minced garlic, and half teaspoon grated ginger.
To prepare, as per the publication, the ingredients are combined (except the chicken) in a bowl. Next, the chicken is placed in a resealable plastic bag. Then, the marinade is also poured into the bag, which is resealed. After that, it is placed in the refrigerator for up to two hours and the bag is turned occasionally.
Meanwhile, the oven is preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, the chicken is removed from the bag; however, the marinade is reserved. Then, it is placed on a rack in a roasting pan, with the breast side up, and is roasted for 35 minutes, basting occasionally. After that, the chicken is covered loosely with foil when it starts to brown. It is turned and roasted for 35 minutes more, basting it with the marinade. Then, the chicken is turned again and is roasted for 20 minutes, until the meat near the bone is no longer pink in hue when cut. Finally, the chicken is cut into two inch pieces with a kitchen shear or cleaver.
Overall, lychee is one of the nutritious foods at present. So, adding it to different meal options helps promote a person’s health and wellness.
