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Is that truly what we find in exotic fruits and vegetables?

Homepage Articles Is that truly what we find in exotic fruits and vegetables?

Is that truly what we find in exotic fruits and vegetables?

People are increasingly open to exotic fruits and vegetables. Fear of unknown taste and origin of the product is losing ground to curiosity surrounding its use and properties. Below is a list of food items of exotic origin that have health benefits when consumed. Should we even consider incorporating them into our daily diet?

Table of Contents

1. Other Edible Fungi

The summary commences with the well-liked pineapple, which belongs to the family of bromeliads and originates from South America. Most fruits come from Brazil, the Philippines, Hawaii, and Mexico. The name of the family from which it originates refers to the main substance of this plant, namely bromelain. This compound is well known to athletes because it is effective in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorders with inflammatory conditions. This is done through the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which causes these symptoms. Bromelain is also used as an anti-inflammatory agent in the case of bone marrow disease (degenerative disorders or rheumatoid arthritis) and it promotes the process of bone growth. This process leads to the improvement of bone tissue growth. It also facilitates the growth and development of bone tissues.

2. Sweet potato

The sweet potato, also known as batata or yam, is a plant belonging to the family of Convolvulaceae. It originates from South and Central America. These tuberous vegetables are less commonly seen on Polish tables than popular potatoes. Sweet potatoes contain large amounts of carotenoids, including lutein, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the visual organs. Sweet potatoes also have a low glycemic index (54) due to the presence of slowly digestible carbohydrates. This means that sweet potatoes can be consumed by diabetics without the risk of a significant increase in blood sugar levels. Furthermore, sweet potatoes contain large amounts of mineral nutrients such as chlorine, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, calcium, and iron. Sweet potatoes are particularly rich in vitamin B6, C, folic acid, and vitamin E.

3. It's the culinary fennel

Culinary fennel, known as Italian fennel, is another plant from the celery family found in the Mediterranean region as well as in Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. Its medicinal use has been known since ancient times and is significant in phytotherapy. Culinary fennel is used to treat lung problems by increasing the volume of bronchial secretion, decreasing its density, and normalizing the movement of the ciliary epithelium. It is particularly recommended as a medicinal preparation. The essential oil from this plant can be used as a means of inhalation and in the fight against colds. The sweet variety of fennel stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile and reduces the tension of the abdominal muscles. It is an excellent solution for gastric problems such as stomach aches, loss of appetite, digestive disorders, or bloating.

4. Kaki, also known as persimmon or hurma

Kaki, also known as persimmon or hurma, is a common name for the fruit of a tropical tree found in the regions of Americas and Asia. It is rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, and contains numerous antioxidants, such as epicatechin, gallic acid, and p-coumarin, as well as proanthocyanidine. These compounds are used in Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, ranging from ordinary ailments and inflammatory conditions, through lowering blood pressure to skin damage caused by injury or snake bites. Studies have shown that extracts from kaki inhibit the process of tumorigenesis and enhance apoptosis, which is the programmed death of unhealthy cells.

5. Carrots

Oskomian common is a tropical tree found primarily in areas of Indonesia and Malaysia. Its yellow fruit called star fruit owes its name to its shape. The juicy berry has a sweet-sour taste. The main benefits of carambola are primarily the effective reduction of LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels, which is important for people with diabetes and people with cardiovascular problems. Carambola has only 30 calories, and the protein present in it not only enhances satiety, but also improves the functioning of the digestive system.

6. The Kiwi, a fruit from the Yangtze River region

The fruit originates from the Yangtze River region in northern China and was formerly known as Chinese aggressors. It was not until 1974 that it was given its current name, kiwi, by an American importer. Kiwi is characterized by its high content of zinc, magnesium, and potassium, which have shown a beneficial effect in treating cardiovascular disease by normalizing hypertension, reducing blood triglycerides, and increasing the aggregation of blood platelets. Kiwi also contains a large amount of dietary fiber, making it a valuable food source for those suffering from overeating and constipation. Kiwi is also suitable for those looking to lose weight and diabetics due to its low glycemic index (50) and low calorie count (61 kcal). Furthermore, kiwi contains a large amount of vitamin C, which improves the immune system. The fruit also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which prevent eye diseases.

7. It counts

Tropical trees in the soap family include species native to the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The Chinese fig tree is a small-scale fruit-bearing plant that resembles strawberries in appearance. Chinese figs are rich in polyphenols, essential antioxidants. This means that the consumption of this plant contributes to the delay of aging processes and prevents the development of many diseases, including cancers. It also has a high potassium content that helps maintain normal blood pressure.

8. It's a mango

The aforementioned name refers to over 45 species of fruit trees that are mainly found in India and Indochina. In local culture, it is known as the fruit of the gods. Over time, the cultivation of this plant has also spread to Africa, America, and Europe. Scientific studies confirm the healthy values of mangoes. Researchers emphasize that regular consumption of this fruit can significantly reduce insulin levels, improve glucose tolerance in the body, and lower cholesterol levels in the blood. These studies confirm the effectiveness of mangoes in treating conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, or metabolic syndrome. Mango also contains a large amount of polyphenols, particularly gallotannins. This explains the use of this fruit in the production of supplements to reduce the risk of cancer. The high amount of fiber in the seeds of this plant has a positive effect on intestinal peristalsis, supporting weight loss and the fight against obesity. Mango juice, on the other hand, is recommended to strengthen the immune system. Mango oil is an excellent remedy for improving skin health and regeneration.

9. Melon: The Fruit of Health

Melon is a species of cucumber, the edible fruit of which belongs to the family of dioecious plants. It is cultivated throughout the world, although it is native to Africa, Australia, Asia and some Pacific islands. The cantaloupe variety is characterized by an orange color indicating a rich content of pro-vitamin A, or β-carotene. This compound is a powerful antioxidant that effectively eliminates free radicals from the body, which prevents the development of many serious diseases. Large amounts of vitamin B also have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the nervous system, which leads to an improvement in mood, focus, and sleep. Melons also contain a significant amount of potassium, which has a positive impact on heart function and regulates blood pressure. The fruit is also low in calories due to its high water content. Furthermore, the presence of citrulline, a compound also found in watermelons, accelerates weight loss. This substance is involved in the synthesis of growth hormone.

10. Peruvian Cape Gooseberry

This exotic plant species is currently grown in most countries, but it originates from South America. Peruvian Cape Gooseberry is also known by other names such as Brazilian culinary or Peruvian cherry. The fruits of this plant are small and round, similar to cocktail tomatoes. The cape gooseberry is commonly consumed raw as an addition to desserts, salads, or as a snack. Dried fruits can also be eaten, which is an excellent alternative to unhealthy snacks. What indicates the health effects of this exotic fruit? Firstly, the high content of vitamin A, which is essential for the proper functioning of the skin and vision and is a powerful antioxidant. The Peruvian cherry also contains high levels of vitamin C and B vitamins. It is also worth mentioning that it contains a significant amount of calcium and phosphorus, which have a positive impact on the condition of bones and teeth. The seeds can also be used as an effective remedy for digestive problems and bowel disorders.

11. True Melon Plant

The True Melon Plant, also known as papaya, is a plant native to South America. It is mainly grown in tropical and subtropical climates. It contains an enzyme called papain, which has a similar effect to another enzyme produced by the human body, pepsin. Papain is very effective in improving digestion after consuming excess protein. It also does not affect the pH of the digestive system due to its activity in different environments. Due to its high concentration of antioxidants, papaya also exhibits strong cleansing and detoxifying properties.

12. The colossal fruit from the citrus family

Pomelo, also known as the colossal fruit from the citrus family, is the largest of the citrus fruits. The ascorbic acid content can weigh up to 2 kg, while the average can reach up to 25 cm. It occurs mainly in Southeast Asia, particularly in the central regions of Indonesia and Malaysia. Pomelo is characterized by a high vitamin C content, which significantly exceeds the vitamin C content in grapefruits or oranges – we are talking about more than 60 mg per 100 g of product. Just 1/6 of a pomelo can cover the daily requirement for this vitamin. A large dose of vitamin C leads to an improvement in the elasticity of blood vessels, which significantly regulates blood pressure and the work of the heart muscle. Pomelo also contains large amounts of potassium, which has a positive effect on the circulatory system. The glycemic index of this fruit is 30, so it can be consumed by people with diabetes. Fiber, on the other hand, regulates the function of the digestive system, and bioflavonoids destroy harmful oxidizing agents.

13. Lentils - a plant rich in nutrients

Soczewica is a perennial plant from the family of bobowatych, which covers up to seven different species of different colors. Its range is relatively wide (from Asia to Africa to the Canary Islands), but it was first domesticated by the inhabitants of the Middle East. It is very popular among vegans due to its high protein content (9/100 g). The proteins contained in this plant are, after soy protein, the most easily digestible form of plant protein. Soczewica also contains a small amount of sodium and a large amount of potassium, which explains its frequent use in the diet of people with circulatory problems. In addition, this plant regulates cholesterol levels and blood pressure, which is an important part of preventing atherosclerosis and reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Thanks to its high content of iron and folic acid, soczewica is used in the treatment of anemia. Both nutrients have a positive effect on the synthesis process of new erythrocytes and increase the hemoglobin level. Soczewica is also recommended for people with overweight or those on a diet, as it is rich in fiber and low in calories.

14. Jerusalem Article

The Jerusalem Article is a plant belonging to the astroate family, found primarily in North America, where it is also native. Bulbulus, also known as bulbous sunflower, has gained particular recognition among diabetics. Its content of over 16% inulin allows diabetics to safely consume it, as well as promoting glycemic normalization. Inulin is also responsible for normalizing cholesterol levels, and potassium helps control high blood pressure. Inulin together with the pectins and fiber present in Jerusalem Article is an effective way to combat overweight and digestive problems. The Jerusalem Article can be successfully consumed by people suffering from stomach acid, irregular bowel movement, or irritable bowel syndrome. In the latter case, Jerusalem Article helps eliminate harmful bacteria that cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.
The author of the article is Dietspremium