Loquat is yellow colored fruit, which has a number of nutrition benefits. Learn about the nutritional value and health benefits of eating loquat.

Benefits Of Loquat

Loquat is a yellowish fruit, which grows in a cluster. The shape of the fruit is somewhat oval, pear-shaped or even round. The scientific name of the fruit is Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl and it belongs to the Rosaceae family. Loquat is known to be indigenous to China. However, it has been grown in Japan and India since antiquity and is also found in Indochina, the Mediterranean region, and to some extent, the New World subtropics. Depending on its variety, the taste of a loquat can vary from subtle to honey-rich.
 
While some describe the tangy taste of a loquat as sweetly tart, like a cherry, others are of the opinion that its flavor is similar to a blend of plum, pineapple and apricot. The fruit is usually eaten fresh, but can also be utilized in making jams, jellies, pie and sauces. Loquat is covered by a thin peel and contains brown colored seeds. Its roasted seeds can be used as a substitute for coffee, while the fruit is also used for making wine. In addition to this, loquat is associated with many health and nutritional benefits. To know more about the nutritional value of the fruit and its numerous health benefits, read through the following lines.
 
Loquat Nutrition Facts
 
Amount ofLoquat: 1 cup, cubed
Total Weight of Loquat: 149 g
 

Nutrients
Amount
Basic Components
 
Protein 
0.6 g
Carbohydrates
18.1 g
Water
129 g
Ash
0.7 g
Calories
 
Total Calories
70.0
Calories From Fat
2.5
Calories From Carbohydrate
Calories From Protein
65.4
2.2
Carbohydrates
 
Dietary Fiber
2.5 g
Fats
 
Total Fat
0.3 g
Saturated Fat
0.1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 
0.1 g
Vitamins
 
Vitamin A
2276 IU
Niacin
0.3 mg
Vitamin C
1.5 mg
Folate
20.9 mcg
Vitamin B6
0.1 mg
Minerals
 
Calcium
23.8 mg
Iron
0.4 mg
Magnesium
19.4 mg
Manganese
0.2 mg
Phosphorus
40.2 mg
Potassium
396 mg
Selenium
0.9 mcg
Sodium
1.5 mg
Zinc
0.1 mg
Copper
0.1 mg
Other Fats
 
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
19.4 mg
Omega 6 Fatty Acids
115 mg

 
Health & Nutritional Benefits of Loquat
 
  • Loquat is a good source of Vitamin A, which is crucial for the visual and dental health of an individual.
  • Extract from loquat leaves is an important ingredient for lung ailments and has been used by Chinese, since ancient times.
  • Loquats are appropriate for maintaining optimum health, as they are low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
  • People with a deficiency of Vitamin A should have loquat in large number, because of its rich content.
  • Loquats are rich in fiber, making them suitable for those who wish to lose weight.
  • The loquat leaf is said to alleviate coughing and nausea. It even dissolves phlegm and is an expectorant.
  • Loquat paste helps in soothing the digestive and respiratory systems of a person.
  • The loquat leaf is known to shorten the recovery time from respiratory illness.
  • Loquat contains malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, vitamins A, B and C, and B17. Vitamin B17 is known as amygdaline, laetrile or the anti-cancer vitamin, as it helps prevent cancer.

How to Cite

More from iloveindia.com