Kumquats are small citrus fruits that are acidic, tart, and slightly sweet. They are small orange-flavored fruits that are high in vitamin C and fibre. They also include trace levels of iron, B complex vitamins, manganese, copper, and calcium.
Furthermore, the edible seeds of kumquats contain beneficial lipids such as omega-3 fatty acids. They also have a high water content. This makes them an ideal and convenient snack for quick energy and hydration.
The term kumquat is derived from a Chinese word that means “golden mandarin orange.” These little citrus fruits originated in China and are now grown in a number of countries, including India and Japan. Kumquats are more resistant to severe environmental conditions than oranges.
Kumquats offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects. They may also help with gastrointestinal issues and maintain a healthy weight due to their high fibre content.
Kumquat peel and seeds are both edible. You can, however, remove it if necessary. Kumquats are used in a variety of recipes, including salads, chutneys, marmalades, sandwiches, candies, and many others.
Kumquats of Various Varieties
Kumquats come in six different types. These variants differ in terms of colour, flavour, and shape.
Kumquat, round
Round kumquats are also known as Marumi or Morgani kumquats. This kumquat type contains round or oval fruits that are golden-yellow in colour.
This kumquat variety’s skin is sweet, while the pulp is sour. It is used in the making of jellies, marmalades, and jams.
Kumquat, oval
Nagami kumquat is another name for the oval Kumquat kind. It is oval, as the name implies, and its peel has a particularly pleasant taste.
Although the pulp is sour, when combined with the peel, it makes a great balance of flavours. Finally, the Centennial Variegated kumquat arose from an oval kumquat. The yellow and green stripes on the fruit’s peel define this kind.
Kumquat Meiwa
This kumquat cultivar is also oval in shape. It does, however, have more seeds than the other varieties.
Kumquat from Hong Kong
The Hong Kong kumquat fruit is as little as a pea. This variety of kumquat is bitter, has less pulpy fruit, and more seeds. Another variation derived from Hong Kong kumquat is Golden Bean kumquat.
Kumquat from Jiangsu
Fukushu kumquat is another name for this kind of kumquat. This type bears vivid orange fruits that are bell-shaped or round. They are used in the preparation of marmalades and jellies.
Kumquat from Malaysia
It is also referred to as ‘hedge lime.’ These kumquats have more fruit pulp and thinner peels than other kumquat cultivars.
Kumquat Nutritional Value
Kumquats are high in dietary fibre and vitamin C. A 100 gramme serving of raw kumquats contains
- 71kcals of energy
- 15.9g carbohydrate
- 1.8g protein
- 0.8g fat
- 6.5g of fibre
- Minerals and vitamins
- 15mcg vitamin A (2 percent of DV)
- 0.09mg riboflavin (8 percent of DV)
- 8.4mg choline (2 percent of DV)
- 62mg calcium (6 percent of DV)
- 0.87mg iron (7 percent of DV)
- 20mg Magnesium (6 percent of DV)
- 0.13mg manganese (6 percent of DV)
- 0.17mg zinc (2 percent of DV)
You can eat four to five kumquats every day, totaling up to 100 grammes. They contribute to more than half of the daily vitamin C requirements. Furthermore, it has a reasonable amount of fibre and minerals.
Other Kumquat Nutritional Facts
Glycemic index is low.
The glycemic index of citrus fruits is low. Low glycemic index fruits are safe for diabetics to consume because they do not rapidly spike blood glucose levels. Kumquats have a low glycemic index and can be a healthy and nutritious mid-morning snack high in antioxidants.
Fibre-rich
Kumquats are complex carbohydrates because they include a fair quantity of fibre. As a result, they take longer to move through the gut since our digestive enzymes cannot break them down. As a result, you will feel fuller for longer. They suppress cravings, avoiding weight gain.
Kumquats have a lot of soluble fibre. Soluble fibre is well-known for its ability to prevent diarrhoea. It collects extra water from the intestines and condenses it into a gel-like material.
If you are experiencing frequent bouts of diarrhoea, eat a handful of kumquats. Furthermore, research suggest that fibre helps to reduce cholesterol in the body by excreting it through the faeces.
Snack with Few Calories
Kumquats have a good quantity of water content. As a result, they make an excellent low-calorie yet filling snack. They may be both refreshing and hydrating in an instant.
Fats That Are Beneficial
People with heart problems, such as high cholesterol levels, should consume it because of its low fat content. Furthermore, these fruits’ edible seeds contain trace levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been demonstrated in studies to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the body.
Functions as an Antioxidant
Kumquats are high in antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C. Excessive levels of free radicals can cause cell damage. Kumquats’ antioxidants may help to minimise oxidative stress generated by free radicals in our body. So drink a glass of kumquat juice to get rid of the toxins in your body!
Kumquat Health Benefits
Anti-Inflammatory Action
When a hazardous pathogen is present in the body, our immune system responds by destroying the infection. Inflammation is the name given to this response.
It is most common in arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, diabetes, autoimmune illnesses, heart difficulties, and neurological diseases. If the inflammation worsens, cell death and organ damage may occur.
Kumquats contain a variety of flavonoids, including kaempferol, luteolin, hesperidin, quercetin, C-glycoside, and others. C-glycoside has been shown in a few trials to have anti-inflammatory effects. It accomplishes this by lowering the immune system’s inflammatory response and the creation of damaging free radicals.
Antibacterial Action
According to one study, the oil derived from the peel of kumquats may have antimicrobial effects. As a result, it may inhibit the growth of various dangerous germs that grow on food, such as bacteria and fungi.
Because of its antibacterial properties, it may be useful in extending the shelf life of goods by reducing microbial development.
Enhances Eye Health
Kumquats have some vitamin A in the form of beta carotene. It’s one of eleven carotenoids found in kumquats. Carotenoids such as beta carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein have been shown in numerous studies to benefit eye health.
Rhodopsin is found in our eyes. It is a protein molecule that allows us to see in low-light situations. Inadequate rhodopsin production, on the other hand, can result in night blindness. Vitamin A is required for the synthesis of rhodopsin. Kumquats contain a decent quantity of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy eyesight.
Antioxidant Action
Kumquats have a high vitamin C content. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C are widely established. Furthermore, they aid in the reduction of oxidative stress induced by free radicals.
Free radicals are waste products produced in the body as a result of normal metabolic operations, exposure to environmental pollutants, and so on. Excessive levels of free radicals in the body can harm cells and organs. They can cause cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases.
According to research, the vitamin C found in kumquats may lower the risk of various diseases by reducing the generation of free radicals in the body.
Mood Disorders May Be Regulated
Some research suggests that eating foods high in vitamin C may help with stress, mood, and sleep. It works by having an antidepressant-like effect and aids in the improvement of mental health by lowering the risk of anxiety, depression, and stress. However, the precise mechanism by which it improves sleep remains unknown.
Enhances Bone Health
Calcium is required by our bodies to develop and maintain healthy teeth and bones. As a result, a lack of calcium-rich foods during the key growth phases of life can result in a variety of illnesses such as short stature, dental caries, osteoporosis, and so on.
Vitamin C is also essential for bone growth. Furthermore, vitamin C aids in the synthesis of collagen. Adequate levels of this vitamin can thus promote skin and bone health.
Kumquats have a high calcium and vitamin C content. According to research, vitamin C may help prevent bone illnesses such as osteoporosis. By pulling calcium from the bones, acidic meals may raise the risk of bone diseases. Kumquats, as alkaline fruits, lower the chance of developing osteoporosis.
Enhances Immunity
The immune system is made up of a variety of cells such as macrophages, lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and so on. They are critical for disease prevention caused by several types of bacteria and viruses. They function by targeting and killing germs that infiltrate our bodies, causing inflammation.
According to one study, the antioxidants beta-cryptoxanthin and L-limonene found in kumquats may boost immunity. Furthermore, they function by increasing the activity of natural killer cells and decreasing metabolic stress in the body.
Anticancer Properties
According to study, apigenin, a type of flavonoid found in kumquats, may help prevent the development of cancer. Cancer produces unregulated cell multiplication and DNA alterations. Apigenin may affect on cancer cells by causing cell death, which prevents them from developing and spreading to other cells.
Prevents Obesity and Weight Gain
Poncirin, another flavonoid found in kumquats, may have an important role in obesity prevention. Poncirin may minimise the risk of weight gain by blocking the development of new fat cells in the body, according to one study.
Additionally, they are high in fibre. They keep you feeling fuller for longer because of their delayed passage through the digestive tract. They suppress hunger and the desire to eat unhealthy snacks.
Improves Gut Health
Kumquats have a good level of dietary fibre. Fibre goes through the digestive tract undigested by the enzymes produced in our stomach.
Furthermore, they are fermented in the stomach and serve as food for the beneficial bacteria that live there. They improve intestinal health and immunity in general. Furthermore, the soluble fibre included in these fruits may aid in the reduction of diarrhoea.
Prevents cardiovascular disease
Heart disease is caused by artery obstruction caused by high cholesterol levels in the body. It can lead to a stroke, excessive blood pressure, or heart failure. However, research has indicated that the flavonoids, fibre, vitamin C, and A contained in kumquats may help to prevent fat formation in the arteries. As a result, it lowers the overall risk of heart disease.
The fibre in kumquats may aid in the reduction of cholesterol levels by increasing its excretion through the faeces.
Enhances Blood Sugar Control
Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is critical in diabetics. Diabetes that is not well-controlled can lead to a variety of problems such as foot ulcers, retinopathy, and so on. As a result, persons with diabetes should consume low glycemic index fruits to avoid abrupt jumps in blood glucose levels after a meal.
Kumquats are low in sugar. As a result, they have a low glycemic index and are ideal for diabetics. Furthermore, due to their high fibre content, kumquats may minimise the odds of blood sugar increases after a meal, according to one study.
Kumquat Consumption Methods
Snack on the Run
Kumquats have a delicious combination of sweet and acidic flavours. Even when eaten fresh, they are wonderful. If you don’t want to make a nutritious snack, eat a bowl of juicy kumquats.
Squeeze Out the Sour, Enjoy the Sweet
You don’t like the sour, juicy part? Make a hole in the peel and squeeze the juice out.
Make Them Boil
If the peel is too hard, boil it for a few minutes to soften it. Now immerse them in cold water and serve.
They should be juiced.
If you don’t like eating entire fruits, you can remove the seeds and juice them.
Marmalades and Jams
If you like jam, you can cook a cup of kumquats, add sugar and lemon zest, and store them for later use. Due to their citrus flavour, kumquats make excellent fruit for marmalades and preserves.
Include them in your salads and smoothies.
You may add them to green salads for a tart edge. You can also make a green smoothie with them. Their strong flavour conceals the flavour of the greens. As a result, they make a great substitute for oranges.
Kumquat Recipes in a Hurry
Salad with Kumquats
1 serving
Time to prepare: 10 minutes
Ingredients
50g kumquats (thin slices, no seeds)
50g strawberries (chopped)
20g shredded kale
2 tbsp olive oil
30g shredded brussel sprouts
30ml apple cider vinegar
Season with salt to taste
Method
- Kumquats, strawberries, and greens should all be washed.
- If necessary, steam them.
- Make thin slices of them.
- Mix in two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
- Season with salt to taste and serve.
Green Kumquat Smoothie
1 serving
Time to prepare: 10 minutes
Ingredients
50g spinach leaves
3 dates (dry)
50g kumquats
5 cashews 50g apple (chopped)
50ml of water
Method
- Wash and chop the spinach, kumquats, and apple into medium-sized slices.
- Blend all of the ingredients in a blender until they have the consistency of a smoothie.
- Pour in the water and combine again.
- If necessary, add ice cubes.
Kumquats and their Potential Side Effects
Contamination-Related Infection
If you buy kumquats from a street vendor who has kept them out in the open for several hours, they may have microorganisms on their surface.
If you eat these fruits without properly cleaning or cooking them, bacteria such as E coli and salmonella may infect you.
These microorganisms can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and fever. As a result, it is critical to wash or prepare your kumquats before eating them.
Allergy to Citrus
Kumquat fruit, seeds, and peel are generally regarded safe for ingestion. People with citrus allergies, on the other hand, may experience harmful effects if they consume kumquats. According to research, such people may develop contact dermatitis if they come into contact with the skin of these fruits.
Symptoms could include:
- The sensation of tingling
- Itching in the mouth, lips, and tongue
- Skin redness Dry and flaky skin
- Blisters that Swell
- Sensation of burning
- Hives
- Vomiting and nausea
- Diarrhoea
In such instances, it is best to get quick assistance from a medical health specialist.
Summary
Kumquats are one-of-a-kind, sweet, and nutritious fruits with numerous health benefits. They provide numerous health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory activities.
Furthermore, they are a flexible element in a variety of cuisines, whether sweet, sour, or tangy. However, it is critical to obtain them from sanitary sources because they may have been exposed to a variety of toxins before reaching our bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What health benefits do kumquats have?
A. Kumquats are naturally high in a variety of nutrients, including vitamins A, B, and C. It also has a high level of dietary fibre, calcium, iron, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other plant components. Because of these nutrients, they are an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, and immunomodulatory diet.
How many kumquats should you consume each day?
A. Each day, four to five kumquats are ingested. They are around 100 grammes in weight, provide half of the daily requirement, and contain 6.5 grammes of fibre. Because of its low sugar content, it is an excellent low-calorie option for diabetics. However, appropriate cleaning is required to prevent diseases caused by environmental pollutants.
How sweet are kumquats?
No, kumquats have a low sugar content. They have a low glycemic index and can be consumed safely by diabetics. Furthermore, they are a filling nutritious snack alternative. They reduce weight gain by reducing appetite and cravings due to their high fibre content.
Do kumquats put you to sleep?
A. It is unknown what role citrus fruits play in sleep. Vitamin C-rich meals, on the other hand, may work as an antidepressant and treat sleeplessness.
Can kumquat help with a sore throat?
A. Because of their high vitamin C content, kumquats are immunomodulatory. Consuming kumquats may so boost immunity and aid in the prevention of infectious colds and fevers.
Is it possible to juice a kumquat?
A. Kumquats can be blended into juice. You may also combine them with different fruit juices to create a distinct flavour.
Is it possible to eat the peel of a kumquat?
A. Yes, the peel of kumquats is edible and high in dietary fibre, which aids in weight loss, blood sugar regulation, immunity, and many other health advantages.
Are Kumquat seeds toxic?
A. No, kumquat seeds are completely fine to eat. They also have some healthful fats in them. They do, however, have a little bitter flavour and may not be preferred. They can be consumed or discarded as desired.
How acidic are kumquats?
A. No, kumquats are naturally alkaline. As a result, they aid with digestive disorders such as acidity, weight loss, and the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis.
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