Health
7 shocking health benefits of yuzu
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Discover the 7 shocking health benefits of yuzu.
What is yuzu? A yoga pose? A new fashionable lifestyle? Nothing of that! This is a fruit which, although bearing such an exotic and unknown name, has a very familiar allure: it looks like a lemon.
Introduction
Originally from China, yuzu is now mainly produced in Japan and Korea. This tangy-tasting fruit, located somewhere between tangerine, grapefruit, and lime, has only recently appeared in Western cuisine. However, if you are thinking of a chewable fruit, you are wrong. Containing little flesh and many seeds, yuzu is not eaten like other fruits. It is rather used as a condiment when it is not included in cosmetic products or used as a medicinal plant.
Do you want to know more about this atypical fruit? Here is its history, its benefits, and the ways you can consume it.
After being discovered in China, it is surely in Japan, where it was imported more than a millennium ago, that yuzu is of the greatest importance. In the Land of the Rising Sun, yuzu is not only part of a large number of traditional recipes, but it is also used as a medicinal plant and is even found in some rituals!
Thus, according to Japanese tradition, taking a yuzu bath on the day of the winter solstice would have many benefits. Indeed, it would protect the joints, improve blood circulation and strengthen the body against diseases. As for the date of the tradition, it was not chosen at random: the winter solstice marks the end of the yuzu harvest, but also the renewal due to the days which, after having considerably shortened, finally begin to lengthen
Yuzu grows on a tree of the same name, which you might have come across if you’ve been to Japan. This usually takes the form of a thorny shrub but can grow up to 4 meters high.
Yuzu cultivation is far from productive. Indeed, it takes 20 years for the yuzu to give its first fruits and a tree will only produce 15 to 20 kilos of fruit per harvest. However, since yuzu contains very little juice, a tree can only produce about 3 liters of juice per harvest. This has a direct influence on its price, which is much higher than other fruits.
But the yuzu doesn’t really look like a first-class fruit. Its thick skin is bumpy and irregular, far from the smooth, perfect shape that fruits typically display. What makes it famous in the eyes of cooks is the scent it contains. Very intense and very appreciated, it only takes a small amount to add flavor to an entire dish.
What are the health benefits of yuzu?
Rich in flavonoids, fibers, and vitamins A and C, yuzu notably has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are the 7 main health benefits Of yuzu.
1) It repairs the skin and fights against its aging
Yuzu is found in the composition of a large number of cosmetics, and for good reason: it is very good for the skin.
First of all, thanks to its vitamin C content, yuzu participates in the production of collagen, a protein that plays an essential role in the composition of our skin. This not only repairs the skin, but also strengthens it, moisturizes it and makes it soft and beautiful, while preventing the appearance of wrinkles. Yes, just that!
To fight against skin aging, vitamin C can also take advantage of the help of flavonoids and limonoids, two antioxidants that are also present in yuzu. At three, they fight and eliminate free radicals. This is important because, when these are present in too large a quantity in our body, they attack the cells and cause them to age, which causes wrinkles to appear on our face and our body.
Finally, the yuzu also participates in the healing of the skin and helps to accelerate it.
2) It strengthens the hair
Is your hair thin and brittle? Thanks to the flavonoids it contains, yuzu can help you remedy your hair problems. This is because flavonoids help reduce the permeability of capillaries, which helps strengthen the hair.
For better efficiency, you can apply the yuzu directly to your hair. However, you will then need to mix it with your shampoo because using it alone could irritate your scalp
3) It gives energy
Thanks to its richness in vitamin C, yuzu helps to replenish energy and fight against fatigue. Vitamin C also works on the muscles, helping you not to feel physically weak.
In addition, yuzu significantly promotes the absorption of iron and calcium by the body. However, these two proteins play an essential role against fatigue. If they are not in sufficient quantity in the body, your energy will take a hit.
4) It strengthens the immune system
Besides increasing our energy level, vitamin C also takes care of our immune system. Indeed, vitamin C participates in the defense of immune cells and acts on their mobility. This makes them stronger and more able to fight against external aggressions.
Yuzu also contains other antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect our bodies against disease.
5) It prevents cardiovascular disease
Polyphenols help prevent the development of cardiovascular disease. Indeed, yuzu is particularly effective against platelet aggregation, which can promote the creation of a clot. However, the clot can end up blocking a blood vessel leading to the brain, which would then cause a TIA (transient ischemic attack).
However, to be effective, yuzu must be consumed regularly and as a supplement to a healthy diet.
6) It reduces the risk of suffering from cancer
Among the long list of diseases that yuzu can help prevent is cancer. According to a study, yuzu could indeed prevent cancer by fighting free radicals that attack cells. This is due to the antioxidants they contain, among which we find vitamin C, flavonoids and fiber.
7) It facilitates intestinal transit
The fibers and vitamins found in yuzu help speed up intestinal transit and thus improve digestion. This helps fight digestive disorders such as constipation.
How to consume yuzu?
As we have said, yuzu and its juice are far from being the cheapest products on the market. Fortunately, it is not a fruit that it is customary to chew or drink.
As a general rule, its juice is used as a seasoning and its zest is collected to make a condiment. You will also have difficulty finding fresh yuzu in its natural form. Rather, it is sold as a juice, dehydrated zest and powder.
Thanks to its particular taste, yuzu goes well with both sweet and savory. Great pastry chefs like to use it in their creations, but you can also use it with your meat and fish, in jam or sauce, or in a large number of Japanese recipes and sweet and savory recipes. There are many possibilities!
Either way, don’t have a heavy hand: a small dose of yuzu is usually enough to flavor an entire dish.
How to use Yuzu?
Yuzu cannot be enjoyed on its own, as such. Rather, it is used as a condiment. It goes well with both savory and sweet dishes. It is traditionally found in marinades and sauces for fish and shellfish, or to accompany a small salad of tofu with herbs.
And you, the yuzu, do you like it? Do you already have some in your cupboards?
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Discover the benefits of coconut water in pregnancy.
Coconut water is a clear, sweet, energizing isotonic drink that helps your body replenish lost fluids. Also known as Nariyal Pani and Elaneer in India, it is known for its versatility and countless nutritional benefits.
IS IT SAFE TO CONSUME COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
Yes, it is safe to drink coconut water, but in moderation, as it contains natural vitamins and minerals.
Having coconut water in the first trimester helps curb dehydration resulting from morning sickness. It’s also good for heartburn and constipation, common symptoms of pregnancy.
You can drink coconut water at any time, but the best time is early in the morning. It is healthier, as the electrolytes and nutrients can be easily absorbed when the stomach is empty.
The nutritional benefits present in a cup of coconut water include:
•Calories 46
•Sodium 252mg
•600mg potassium
•Carbs 8.9 grams
•Dietary fiber 2.6 grams
•Sugars 6.26 grams
•Calcium 6%
Benefits of coconut water in pregnancy
You can reap its benefits only when you consume fresh water, as it begins to ferment when left open and exposed to air.
1. NATURAL DIURETIC:
During pregnancy, uric acid levels should be normal in your body system. Coconut water is a diuretic and increases the need to urinate due to the presence of potassium, magnesium, and minerals.
They help eliminate toxins and cleanse the urinary tract. Thus, it improves kidney function and prevents kidney stones and infections. It also prevents urinary tract infections, which reduces the chances of preterm labor.
2. OFFERS ESSENTIAL ELECTROLYTES:
The need for electrolytes increases during pregnancy because conditions like morning sickness, nausea, and diarrhea dehydrate the body. Coconut water supplies all five essential electrolytes: minerals, sodium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which calm the body and provide energy.
These electrolytes transmit electrical charges in your body and aid in muscle function. They also help maintain your body’s pH levels and control blood pressure levels. It is known to have cooling properties, which prevent conditions such as bilious fever and vomiting.
3. RELIEVES HEARTBURN AND CONSTIPATION:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to various problems like heartburn, constipation, and indigestion. The rich content of dietary fiber in coconut water strengthens the digestive system, improves digestion, regulates pH levels, and prevents constipation.
Ayurveda considers young coconut water to be an excellent laxative. Improves metabolism and detoxifies the body. Coconut water is a natural acid neutralizer and thus prevents heartburn.
4. TREAT INFECTIONS:
Coconut water is rich in vitamins, essential minerals, and antioxidants, which boost your immune levels, providing resistance to infections. It contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid responsible for the production of a powerful antiviral monolaurin, Michelle-Lee Young writes in the book “Two Trees and Twelve Fruits That Will Change Your Life Forever.” Lauric is a disease-fighting acid that kills harmful bacteria and infections like the flu, and HIV, and retains good bacteria.
5. IMPROVES HEART HEALTH:
Low electrolyte level increases blood pressure. Drinking coconut water improves levels of potassium, magnesium, and lauric acid, which help regulate blood pressure. Improves good cholesterol and fights bad cholesterol.
The vitamins, essential proteins, and electrolytes in coconut water control sugar levels, and blood pressure levels, and improve circulation. A glass of coconut water every day is particularly helpful in the last trimester when there is increasing stress from labor that can increase your blood pressure.
6. MAINTAINS A HEALTHY WEIGHT:
Coconut water is fat-free and low in calories. As pregnancy adds extra weight to your body, coconut water prevents fat accumulation by removing bad cholesterol. It is an excellent replacement for sugary drinks and helps both the mother and the growing fetus to be healthy and fit.
7. NATURAL DRINK:
Coconut water is a tasty natural drink. It has no artificial flavors or harmful components. It is safe for you and your growing fetus as none of its components affect your health.
8. ENERGIZE AFTER TRAINING:
Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink, which helps you gain energy when suffering from dehydration, fatigue, and exhaustion. It is a great revitalizer
. If you exercise regularly to stay fit and strengthen your pelvic muscles, you can opt for coconut water as an energy drink. Hydration also improves skin elasticity, limiting the stretch marks that develop during pregnancy.
9. LOW SUGAR CONTENT:
Excessive sugar intake can lead to an increase in overall blood sugar levels. Coconut water has less sugar than other sports and energy drinks. You won’t gain pregnancy weight, and a diet low in simple sugars will reduce your risk of getting gestational diabetes.
10. ACCELERATES THE GROWTH OF THE FETUS:
Coconut water offers all the nutrients to the mother, essential to maintain and improve her health. Thus, it improves the health, growth, and proper nutrition of the unborn baby.
11. IMPROVES AMNIOTIC FLUID LEVELS:
Drinking coconut water improves the overall health and environment of your growing fetus. Coconut water taken especially in the third trimester increases amniotic fluid levels and improves blood volume and circulation.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
There is no evidence that coconut water has adverse effects on pregnancy. Like any other fruit or vegetable juice, it also appears to be safe. But there are two things to keep in mind:
•Coconut milk contains sodium, which may not be the right choice for pregnant women with preeclampsia.
•Ripe coconut water can cause constipation.
HOW MUCH COCONUT WATER CAN A PREGNANT WOMAN HAVE?
Moderation is always the key when it comes to eating a healthy diet. You can drink up to a glass of coconut water a day.
Consume the water soon after opening, as a fresh one will contain rich nutrients. Use a clean straw or pour it into a glass and drink.
It is always good to prefer natural coconut water to canned or bottled.
Do not consume coconut water if you react or do not like its taste.
HOW TO SELECT THE CORRECT COCONUT?
To enjoy the various benefits of coconut water, you need to know how to select them properly. These tips can help you buy fresh and tender coconut.
A fresh coconut will be light and sweet and will not contain coconut meat, the white, meaty, tender substance. A ripe or stale one will taste sour.
Selection: Choose medium-sized, clean, green walnuts, as they contain large amounts of water. Don’t choose coconuts that have hard brown shells and gray patches as they indicate ripe nuts.
Water: Shake the coconut vigorously near your ear to check for water. Select the ones that make a good splashing sound. A fresh coconut will contain almost a cup of water.
If you want to store coconuts at home, keep them in a cool place.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MEAT DURING PREGNANCY:
1. GENERATION OF BREAST MILK:
Regular consumption of coconut meat during pregnancy improves the supply of breast milk after childbirth. Your baby will receive nutritious and rich breast milk. Also, coconut oil helps in the generation of breast milk.
It is also good during the lactation phase as it contains lauric and capric acids. These acids have antiviral, antibacterial, and parasiticidal effects, which protect the baby from diseases.
2. IMPROVES BLOOD CIRCULATION:
Blood volume doubles during pregnancy, causing swelling of the feet and legs. Poor blood circulation aggravates the condition. Coconut consumption improves blood circulation and prevents swelling and pain in the legs.
3. HELPS DIGESTION:
Consuming coconut meat and water prevents constipation as tender coconut meat acts as an excellent laxative. It is one of the best benefits of consuming a coconut in any form during pregnancy.
4. BETTER SLEEP:
Having coconut in combination with poppy seeds and ghee will improve your sleep cycle.
5. INCREASES METABOLISM:
When the coconut is mixed with spices, it helps boost metabolic activities in pregnant women.
COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
Coconut milk is a thick, milky liquid obtained by grinding grated coconut meat. It is also an essential ingredient in many foods, especially Southeast Asian dishes.
Coconut can be consumed in any form due to its amazing health benefits. Coconut milk helps increase body fuel. It is completely safe to drink unless you are allergic to it.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
1. ENHANCE IMMUNITY:
Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which is an antibacterial and antiviral fat, useful for pregnant women. This type of fat helps improve the immune system, according to the book “Coconut Oil and the Immune System” by Sherri Neal. The long-chain fatty acids straighten the blood vessels and reduce any blockages in the heart, thus improving the condition of the heart as well.
2. OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDE:
•It contains good amounts of iron, which can treat anemia.
•Improves digestive problems.
•It offers relaxation to the muscles and the nervous system.
•Controls blood sugar levels and blood pressure
•Relieves joint pain and scratches
•Makes your body fit and helps you lose weight
HOW TO PREPARE FRESH COCONUT MILK?
It is advisable to make coconut milk at home instead of opting for a packaged one.
Grate a whole coconut and add a cup and a half of hot water.
Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Once the mixture cools down, strain to get the milk.
Coconut milk taken directly from fresh coconuts will contain approximately 450 calories and 50 g of fat. A cup of coconut milk (approximately 240 g) has the following nutritional values:
•Calories 550
•Fats 50.2gm (all types of fats)
•Cholesterol 0
•Sodium 40gm
•Carbohydrates 14gm (in 250gm of milk)
•Proteins 6gm
•Vitamin C 11%
•Iron 22%
•Calcium 4%
IS CANNED COCONUT MILK GOOD DURING PREGNANCY?
It’s safe to have canned coconut milk during pregnancy, but you need to make sure the can isn’t corroded, rusted, expired, or stored at dangerous temperatures.
Coconut milk contains considerable amounts of saturated fat, that is, 3 g in a tablespoon. Eating too much-saturated fat will increase the levels of good and bad cholesterol in the body. In the case of canned milk, you must take into account your level of consumption, since you should not exceed your daily requirement.
In addition to the above, other reasons why you may not choose canned coconut milk are:
1. BISPHENOL A (BPA):
It is a chemical that is typically used in the lining of cans used for packaged foods. This BPA can gradually leach into acidic, fatty, or salty foods like coconut milk, vegetables, tomatoes, and soups. One study claims that there is a relationship between high levels of BPA in mothers and neurobehavioral problems in babies.
2. GUAR GUM:
Guar gum is an additive present in canned coconut milk. It is a galactomannan, a polysaccharide, and is primarily a ground endosperm of guar beans.
There have been complaints such as severe abdominal cramps, indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea, as beans are difficult to digest. In a clinical experiment, patients with intestinal problems showed improvement when they stopped using canned coconut milk in their diet.
3. FRUCTOSE MALABSORPTION:
It is a digestive disease characterized by impaired transport of fructose (a simple sugar found in fruits, vegetables, and honey) through the small intestine. Increased fructose levels in the gut cause bacterial overgrowth.
Therefore, it reduces the absorption of water in the intestine. Pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are highly affected by fructose malabsorption.
According to nutrition data, coconut milk contains sugar, including fructose. Therefore, it should be avoided by those affected by IBD and IBS disorders.
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