Are you struggling with inflammation, bone health issues or immune system problems? If so, consider adding Calamondin to your diet. This citrus fruit is packed with anti-inflammatory properties, immune-boosting benefits, and vital nutrients that can help to improve your overall health.
What is Calamondin?
Calamondin is a small citrus fruit, also known as Calamansi, that originated in the Philippines. This fruit is about the size of a golf ball and resembles a small orange or tangerine. Calamondin has a juicy and tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a popular ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes.
Nutritional Values of Calamondin
Calamondin is a nutritional powerhouse that contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. According to the US nutritional database, a 100-gram serving of Calamondin contains:
- 46.7g Vitamin C
- 13g Carbohydrates
- 1.7g Protein
- 2.5g Fiber
- 0.1g Fat
This means that Calamondin supplies a significant amount of your daily Vitamin C requirement – almost 80% per 100-gram serving. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. It also plays a vital role in collagen formation and immune system function.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Calamondin
Calamondin has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with inflammation. A study conducted on rats found that Calamondin juice has potent anti-inflammatory effects due to the presence of flavonoids and limonoids, which are naturally occurring compounds found in citrus fruits.
These compounds have been shown to inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for triggering the inflammatory response. Regular consumption of Calamondin may help to reduce your risk of chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Bone Health Effects of Calamondin
Calamondin is also an excellent source of calcium, a vital nutrient for bone health. This fruit contains about 34mg of calcium per 100-gram serving. Calcium is an essential mineral that helps to build and maintain strong bones and teeth.
Adequate calcium intake is crucial for bone development during childhood and adolescence and to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis in later life. Calamondin is a perfect dietary addition for those looking to improve their bone health.
Immune System Effects of Calamondin
Calamondin is also packed with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals that can help to strengthen your immune system. In addition to Vitamin C, Calamondin also contains Vitamin A, iron, and potassium.
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune system function, while iron is necessary for healthy blood production. Potassium helps to regulate fluid balance in the body and maintain a healthy heart.
Food Combining Information and Recipe
Calamondin is a versatile fruit that can be used in many ways, including as a juice or sauce. Additionally, it pairs well with other anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables, such as ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens.
Here’s a fantastic anti-inflammatory smoothie recipe that combines Calamondin with other anti-inflammatory fruits, nuts, and seeds:
Calamondin and Blueberry Smoothie
- 1 large frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- Juice of 1 Calamondin
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Ice cubes (optional)
Blend all the ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Calamondin smoothie!
Conclusion and Dietary Advice
Calamondin is a fantastic fruit to add to your diet if you’re looking to improve your overall health. This citrus fruit is packed with anti-inflammatory properties, immune-boosting benefits, and vital nutrients that can help to fight inflammation, strengthen your immune system, and improve bone health.
When consuming Calamondin or any food, it is essential to understand the importance of good nutrition, including food combining to receive the most from what you are eating. If you are not sure where to start, consult a dietician or nutritionist to help with your dietary concerns and questions.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruits section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.