Forget the sugar

Open aside, Stevia-there is a new natural sweetener she is making in smoothie aware of health.

This South American superfruit once precious from ancient civilizations-has yellow-orange meat and boasts fragrance resembling sweet potatoes, caramel and maple syrup.

In the Valley of the Ande of Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador – where it springs – it is often used as a natural sweetener, and is also the most popular ice cream aroma in the region.

Now, Lucuma – also known as œ œgold and Incasâ € “is appearing in everything, from Lattes to the Paleo rods, thanks to her sweet aroma and perceived health halo.

Sold here mainly as a fine, yellow powder made of pulp with dried fruits, Lucuma’s appeal extends to its low glycemic load and the generosity of the nutrients.

Lucuma is rich in antioxidants like carotenoids – which give the fruit its unique color and help increase your eye health.

Antioxidants fight outside free radicals that damage cells – so consuming high foods in antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and cognitive decline.

Lucuma is also full of nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, zinc, calcium, potassium and dietary fiber – which benefit everything, from your intestine to your eyes to your immune system.

Sugar € Sugar Refined sugar, Lucuma preserves fibers, vitamins and minerals, offering more than empty calories, ITION € Nutritionist Scott Keatley told food and wine.

According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), one tablespoon lucuma contains one gram of protein and six grams of carbohydrates – compared to 13 grams of carbohydrates and zero grams of protein in white sugar.

Also only 30 calories per tablespoon, compared to the sugar table 49.

Too much sugar is bad for heart health – and, unlike the sugar on the table, Lucuma will not promote blood sugar levels as dramatically.

In fact, research suggests that lucuma polyphenol content can help prevent the converting enzyme of angiotensin I (ACE), which can help regulate blood pressure.

And while more theme research is needed, its vitamin B3 (niacin) levels can even increase your mood and reduce your risk of depression.

With all these health benefits, it is easy to see why Mayans viewed Lucuma as a symbol of fertility with many healing properties.

But don’t go on board – remember, it’s still a sweetener!