Beloved by the Incas, lucuma is a super nutritious Peruvian fruit that contains beta carotene, iron, zinc, vitamin B3, calcium, and protein. Its maple-like taste makes it a sweet addition to smoothies, baked goods, and even ice cream. Viewed as a symbol of fertility and creation, lucuma was called the “Gold of the Incas” and was used for a variety of applications.Lucuma was also used throughout the centuries to support cardiovascular health, and research seems to agree. Studies show that lucuma has potent ACE inhibitory activities in vitro, possibly decreasing the effects associated with hypertension. Lucuma may also support normal blood sugar, giving researchers hope for finding additional nutritional support for those with type II diabetes. These results point to the excellent potential of Peruvian fruits as food-based strategies for blood sugar and blood pressure issues. [2]
