Quince or Cydonia vulgaris, from the quince tree is a fruit full of health benefits and green.
This yellow pear-shaped fruit belongs to the Rosaceae family. The quince tree is native to Asia Minor, it can reach 5 m high. In spring, it blooms with pink or white flowers. The quince season is in the fall.
Quince is a source of potassium. In the body, potassium is used to balance the pH of the blood and to stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid by the stomach, thus promoting digestion. In addition, it facilitates the contraction of muscles, including the heart, and participates in the transmission of nerve impulses.
Quince is the only fruit we eat cooked! Its flesh is as hard as stone and its taste is bitter and spicy.
The health benefits of quince
Quince is excellent for the digestive system:
Quince is rich in fiber (nearly 2 grams per 100 grams of fruit). They are mainly represented by pectins: the latter is a dietary fiber in the form of gel that traps water particles. Pectin promotes a feeling of fullness by delaying gastric emptying. It also protects the cells of the intestine against microbial infections. It is thanks to the high presence of potassium (200 milligrams per 100 grams of fruit) that quince develops its ability to promote digestion by stimulating hydrochloric acid production.
Promotes weight loss:
One of the best ways to maintain your weight and ensure a fast metabolism that allows your system to function optimally is to improve your digestion. Quince is rich in dietary fiber, like most fruits, and significant levels of fiber mean that your gastrointestinal system works more efficiently and regularly. You will have more energy and keep your excess weight by improving your digestive health.
Beneficial for the intestines:
Consumed in the form of jelly or paste, quince has a beneficial and protective effect on the intestines. Its anti-diarrheal properties are well known. Quince is rich in tannins, which slow down intestinal peristalsis, and its pectins are able to retain a large quantity of water: these two actions help to reduce diarrhoea. In addition, due to their astringent action, quince tannins play a protective role on the intestinal mucosa: they tighten the tissues, making the superficial mucous layers less fragile, while protecting the underlying layers. Finally, quince has other beneficial actions: its pectins can adsorb and inhibit toxins, and its tannins have an antiseptic action. Interesting effects to fight against bacteria or unwanted germs, often present in case of diarrhea.
Pain and rheumatism:
The amazing action of quinces on rheumatism can be seen when you consume a purée of quinces that is as sweet as possible and as raw as possible on the bread every day, possibly accompanied by half a glass of pure quinces juice per day. Rather, it is explained by the "naturopathic" approach, which consists in rebalancing the digestive "ground" to reduce inflammation.
An action on sugars:
The composition of quince also makes it an ally in regulating sugar metabolism. Pectins gelled by cooking would lower the glycemic index. And its high content of insoluble fiber would be able to cause a decrease in post-meal insulin secretion. Good to know for people with type 2 diabetes.
Less documented but noteworthy, a decrease in blood cholesterol levels can be expected when the fruit is consumed regularly, by slowing down the absorption of lipids and increasing their elimination.
Prevents cancer:
It seems that cancer is one of the most frequently discussed diseases in recent history. As a result, anything that can reduce the chances of developing cancer generally becomes very popular. The high level of antioxidants, including phenolic and phytonutrient compounds, found in quince is very effective in neutralizing or eliminating free radicals in the body. Free radicals are dangerous by-products of cellular metabolism that can cause the mutation or death of healthy cells. The antioxidant compounds found in quince have been directly linked to reduced chances of developing different types of cancer.
Quince calms diarrhea:
The quince contains polyphenols and pectins. "The former slows down intestinal contractions and also has an antiseptic effect, the latter retains water, which helps to stop diarrhoea more quickly," says the dietician. Quince syrup is also used in pharmacies to fight diarrhoea.
Antioxidant action:
Due to the presence of ferulic acid, quince has antioxidant properties that are beneficial to the skin. This acid neutralizes free radicals (superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, nitric oxide) which can damage cell membranes and DNA; it also prevents damage caused by UV rays (these indeed drastically increase antioxidant activity). It also prevents lipid peroxidation, helping to reduce cell oxidation.
How to cook quince?
Quince contains tannins that disappear when cooked but can give it a harsh taste. Like the pear, the flesh oxidizes quickly (turns brown) when cut. A little trick: sprinkle it with lemon juice or cook the quince immediately to avoid its oxidation.
It is baked like an apple in the oven, i.e. trimmed and if necessary peeled. They are made into jam, compote, jelly or syrup. Its allies are apples, pears, strawberries and raspberries. In Europe, quince or cotignac paste is appreciated. In Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, quince is more commonly used in stews such as tagines.
Quince is an interesting fruit because of its high water and antioxidant content and very low calorie content. Add it to your menu as a jam or jelly to get out of the routine.
Beware of contraindications:
If quince has multiple health benefits, however, it may be contraindicated. This is particularly true for pregnant women and people who are prone to bloating. Indeed, quinces contain a significant amount of mucilage (vegetable substances), the main cause of bloating.
