Kokum, the bright red coloured fruit with multiple health benefits is one of the best summer fruits for weight loss. Kokum is rich in nutrients and beenfits the human body in a number of ways. Kokum or Garcinia Indica is a relative of Garcinia Cambogia. Kokum is mostly found in western ghats, psrts of Kerala and Karnataka. Koum helps in weight loss by reducing the production of fatty acids as well as increasing the secretion of a hormone which suppresses appetite. It is also a natural antacid.
Some basics
- Kokum ranks very high on the anti oxidant chart
- Kokum is a powerhouse of rich nutrients, though it is low in calories and fats
- It also contains vitamin A, B 3, C, folic acid, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and zinc
100 grams of kokum contains
- Calories : 60
- Fiber : 1.8 g
- Carbs : 14.3 g
- Fats : 0.1 g
- Protein : 0.5 g
- Acetic acid that regulates the blood sugar levels
- Ascorbic acid that improves the immunity in the body
- Manganese which improves bone health and can help with arthiritis
- It also contains bioflavonoids, hydroxycitric acid and anthocyanins
Benefits of consuming kokum
- Helps in weight management and weight loss
- Reduces oxidative stress in the body
- It helps combat ageing skin
- Kokum assists keeping inflammation at bay
- It can help protecting the liver
- It can alleviate anxiety and depression
- Kokum contains flavonoids which contribute to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain
- Kokum is also great for the heart
- It helps to regulate blood sugar
- Helps reduce gastric ulcer occurrence
- Kokum is useful to ease acidity and improve digestion
- Kokum also keeps in check the diverse gut ecosystem of good bacteria
- Kokum has cooling and is hydrating
How to use kokum ?
- Kokum body butter is used in cosmetics and culinary use
- Kokum butter pil balm etc are used
- Kokum is used in kokum curry, drinks and water sherbet
- Sun dried kokum fruit is far healthier than tamarind and is thus used by numerous households
- It is also used as a flavouring agent
Advise
- It is advisible that kokum should not be used in excess quantity
- It should not be used without medical medical prescription while you’re pregnant
- It’s use should be avoided if you’re a breast feeding mother
- If consumed in high quantity, it might cause metabolic acidosis
- People suffering from high blood pressure should avoid intake specially if they’re on medication
Ayurvedic properties
- Taste sweet
- It is a cooling fruit
- Balanced fruit that is great for summer months
- Balances vata and kapha