Mira Kapoor relishes litchi; here’s why you should too
"It it's not messy, you are not eating it right!" Mira Kapoor captioned her post on Instagram Stories
Mira Kapoor likes eating seasonal (Source: Mira Kapoor/Instagram) Mira Kapoor, who ensures to keep her meals balanced, always also adds a serving of seasonal and fresh produce to her plate. As such, while everybody else is busy relishing mangoes this summer, she decided to enjoy litchis.
“It it’s not messy, you are not eating it right!” she captioned a picture of the juicy fruit on Instagram Stories. Take a look.
Taking a cue from her, we also decided to dig into litchis, but not before understanding why this fruit is a must-have this season.
“As a seasonal fruit that has high nutritive value, attractive look, and delicious taste, litchi is a storehouse of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients which makes it an essential fruit this season,” said Garima Goyal, a registered dietitian.
Mira Kapoor shared a glimpse of relishing litchis (Source: Mira Kapoor/Instagram Stories)
Benefits of litchis
*Heart healthy – Litchi fruit is rich in antioxidants, namely phenolic compounds. These compounds aid in reducing blood pressure by stopping the production of an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Also, their antioxidants have the capability to reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) which is the bad cholesterol, and raise the levels of good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein), as seen in various animal studies.
*Rich in antioxidants – This fruit is a richer source of antioxidants and polyphenols than most other fruits which renders it its health benefits. A flavonoid called epicatechin, present in litchi, improves heart health and reduces the risk of diabetes and cancer. Another flavonoid that litchi possesses is rutin which gives protection against various chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases too, Goyal said.
How much should you have?
According to the expert, litchis don’t have any documented adverse health effects, but one should limit their consumption in processed form or drinks as they are high in sugar, she cautioned.
“Don’t consume unripe litchis on an empty stomach as it can trigger digestive health issues,” Goyal said.
Litchis can be delicious yet a healthy addition to your diet. (Pic source: Pixabay)
Who can have it?
While it is safe for consumption for most people, some individuals should refrain from the consumption of this fruit or limit its intake, advised Goyal
*Those allergic to it – Some individuals may have an allergic reaction after its consumption. “There could be itching and rash on the skin, swelling on the lips and throat, which may progress to diarrhoea,” said Goyal.
*Food-drug interactions – “Having litchis with certain drugs such as warfarin, aspirin, heparin, clopidogrel, ibuprofen, naproxen etc, can increase the risk of bleeding, and should be avoided ” Goyal said.
*Diabetics – Those with diabetes should consume litchis in moderation as it has a glycemic index of 50. Those with controlled blood sugar levels can enjoy this fruit occasionally, she said.
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