Alternatives to sugar # 2: Lucuma powder

Lucuma is a fruit native to the Andes, sometimes going under the name lucmo or eggfruit. It has a dry flesh and tastes like a cross between maple syrup and sweet potato.

Image borrowed from http://www.vivapure.co.uk/

Nutritionally speaking, it has high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin B3, iron and other B vtiamins. It's also high in fibre and, according to some sources, has a low GI but we've not found any figures to back that up!

Unfortunately, there isn't much information available for Lucuma, as it's a fruit its sweetness comes from its own fructose, which is processed by the liver (much like mesquite and other fruits). Em uses it every so often, but we do combine it with mesquite as a sweetener (usually in equal proportions), sometimes we add a teaspoon of lucuma to our morning shake to add a bit of maple-y sweetness. It has had no effects on Ems blood sugar but as with mesquite we combine it with high protein, high fibre foods.

It has a rich and creamy texture, and can be used in both raw and cooked foods. We've used it in smoothies, ice creams, health bars, biscuits, cakes, pies and fruit purees.

If any of this intrigues you, Lucuma Powder is available from Vivapure for £9.49 upwards (+p&p), Detox your world for £4.95 upwards (+p&p), Have raw cake and eat it for £7.50 upwards(+p&p), the Fresh network for £4.55 upwards (+p&p), and Raw living for & £7.45 upwards (+p&p)

N.B. While very interested in nutrition we are not qualified nutritionists so, as with all of our food posts, we would advise you to research thoroughly and consult your health practitioner before making any changes to your diet.