Lanzones or Langsat are trees from the Mahogany family, scientifically known as Lansium parasiticum. This plant thrives in hot, humid climates and is widely available in the Philippines, for example. They are tall, upright plants that begin to produce fruit after about 4 years and can continue to bear fruit for over 100 years.
The plant can reach a height of 30 meters and produces a little potato-like yellow fruit that is edible. The small, yellow flowers of the lanzones tree appear from April to June, and these flowers develop into greenish berries in clusters.
The fruits are ready for harvest between August and November, when their skin turns brownish-yellow. Lanzones are a popular fruit in Southeast Asia, where it is often eaten fresh or used to make juice, jams, and other preserves. It is also gaining popularity in other parts of the world for its potential health benefits.
This article aims to highlight the health benefits of incorporating lanzones into one’s diet, but first let’s discuss how they taste like.
How Does The Lanzone Fruit Taste Like?
Lanzone fruit develops in bunches, takes on an oval form, and has skin that ranges from gray-yellow to pale brown. Some of the bigger fruits have one or two seeds that are fully grown and taste bitter. Some langsats may not have any seeds or may have a few seeds that aren’t fully grown.
The flesh of the fruit is white on the inside and highly juicy, with a sour and sometimes bitter flavor. Even though you may find lanzone as candies or canned in syrup at some grocers, it is most typically served raw.
The flavor of the fruit tends to change after it has been picked. Freshly plucked lanzones have a strong, sweet, and sour flavor, but if it is left to sit for a few days, it can lose some of their flavor and become less sweet and blander.
To ensure that you get the best flavor from lanzones, it is best to eat it as soon as possible after it has been picked. If you are unable to eat the fruit right away, you can try storing it in the refrigerator to help preserve its flavor and freshness. However, it is important to note that the fruit will still lose some of its flavor over time, even when stored in the refrigerator.
How To Eat Lanzones?
To get the most health benefits from lanzones, it is best to choose fresh fruit rather than candied or canned versions, as these may contain added sugars. Fresh lanzones can be eaten by peeling the skin off the fruit. Some varieties of lanzones, also known as wild lanzones or wild langsat, may release a milky latex when peeled. If this happens, you can dip the fruit in boiling water to reduce the gumminess before eating. It is also important to note that if the flesh of the fruit sticks to the seed, it may have a bitter taste. By following these tips, you can enjoy the sweet and sour flavor of fresh lanzones while also reaping its potential health benefits.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Lanzones?
Not only are lanzones one of Asia’s most beloved fruits, but it also provides a wealth of essential nutrients. Some of the health benefits you may get by including them in your diet are:
- Boosts immune system: Lanzones are rich in vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient that helps to support the immune system and protect against illness.
- May lower blood pressure: The high potassium content of lanzones may help to lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Helps to regulate blood sugar levels: Lanzones is a good source of fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, making it a useful fruit for people with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
- May have anti-inflammatory effects: Some research suggests that compounds found in lanzones may have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- May prevent constipation and improve digestive health: The fiber in lanzones can help to promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health. About 3 and a half ounces (100 grams) of lanzones provide 8 to 11 percent of the daily value for fiber for adult women, and 6 to 8 percent of the daily value for fiber for adult men. Constipation is a common digestive disorder, and eating more fiber can help alleviate the symptoms and perhaps avoid them.
- Supports healthy functioning of the nervous system: Lanzones are a good source of B vitamins, particularly riboflavin (vitamin B2). In fact, a 3.5-ounce serving of lanzones provides 8-11% of the recommended daily intake of riboflavin for adults. B vitamins play an important role in metabolism and nerve function, and can help to convert carbohydrates into usable energy. Consuming adequate amounts of B vitamins through a healthy diet can help to maintain overall health and well-being.
- May support weight loss: Lanzones can help you maintain a healthy weight because they are nutrient dense without being laden with fat and calories. Also, since fiber expands when it absorbs water, eating lanzones will keep you feeling fuller for longer. This means that having lanzones for breakfast or lunch will help you avoid the need for as many midday snacks, as they include many of the nutrients your body needs.
