KUMQUATS

Health Benefits of Kumquats

This small fruit packs a big burst of sweet and tart citrus flavor. In Chinese, Kumquat means “golden orange”. They were originally grown in China but can now be found in many warmer climates including Florida and California.

Healthy Digestion

Kumquats are high in fiber which helps keep your gastrointestinal tract moving. The fiber found in kumquats helps to regulate digestion. A single serving of kumquats has roughly 10 grams of fiber. Fiber can help to reduce or eliminate constipation, excess gas, bloating and cramping. Kumquats can increase the efficiency of your nutrient uptake. Research has found that fiber protects against inflammatory bowel disease.

Diabetes Fighter

The flavonoid extracts found in kumquats were shown to lower blood lipid levels in research using obese rats. Recent research has found that kumquats are especially good for a winter diet because if its low sugar content, low sodium, and zero cholesterol. Kumquats have 0.1 gram of fat per serving as well. Plus the high amount of dietary fiber is an added bonus for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Immunity Booster

Being rich in vitamin C, the kumquat has a huge impact on the immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and acts as a co-factor for biosynthetic enzymes. The vitamin C can also stimulate the growth of new cells and boost the immune system to protect the body from infections, fungi and bacteria. Vitamin C helps to protect us and helps the body heal. A serving of kumquats is a great way to add more vitamin C to your diet.

Blood Pressure Controller

Research has found that the kumquat has incredible potassium to sodium ratio which is a bonus for people with high blood pressure. A single serving of kumquats has 186 milligrams of potassium as compared to the 10 milligrams of sodium. The potassium in the kumquats can help to relax the blood vessels which helps to maintain proper and healthy blood pressure.

Mineral Source

Nutritionists suggest adding kumquats to your diet if you are low in iron, copper, potassium and other minerals. These minerals are necessary for the optimal functioning of your body. Iron and copper help to boost production of the oxygen-carrying red blood cells. These cells make sure there is the perfect amount of oxygen being delivered to all the body parts. Potassium helps with a normal heart rate and blood pressure levels. Adding kumquats to your diet is a tasty way to keep your body healthy and happy.

Can pregnant women eat kumquats?

Yes, the skin of the kumquat is considered the most healthy part of the fruit and the added vitamin C is great of the growing fetus and the pregnant mother.

How many varieties of kumquats are there?

There are two main varieties of kumquats: Marumi and Nagami. Marumi is round, gold yellow, sweeter and juicier than Nagami, and not as common. Nagami look like an olive-sized oval orange and are much more common.

Do kumquats have side effects?

Some Naturopathic doctors suggest that women who are battling breast cancer should avoid kumquats.

When are kumquats in season?

They are in season from November to March.

How do you store kumquats?

Kumquats will keep at room temperature for up to three days, and they can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

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