It smells sweet, it’s delicious, and nutritious, too. Discover the health-promoting goodness of the world’s biggest tree-borne fruit, the Jackfruit.
Living in a tropical country, it’s only natural for me to be surrounded by what many parts of the world call “exotic fruits,” and that includes the jackfruit. Jackfruits abound in the place where I live that we don’t even have to buy them as friends or relatives simply share them every time they make a harvest. Growing up, we also had a jackfruit tree, and during summertime, we had too much supply coming from our backyard that we can make into delicious jams. Back then, all I could think about was the sweet penetrating smell and deliciousness of this spiky fruit. Now that I know its health-promoting goodness, there’s more reason to pig out on the sweet yellow sheaths of the world’s largest tree-borne fruit.
1. Strengthens the immune system
Vitamin C is one of the most widely used supplements as it is best known as the nutrient which helps prevent colds and infections. One cup of jackfruit can supply the body with a very good amount of this potent antioxidant.
2. Regulates blood sugar levels
A high blood sugar level is one of the manifestations of a deficiency of the mineral manganese in the body, and jackfruit contains a very good amount of this essential nutrient.
3. Prevents bone loss
The fruit’s rich magnesium content supports the work of calcium to build and strengthen bones. Study participants have shown that those who consume foods high in potassium and magnesium have higher bone density reading and stronger bones compared to those who didn’t.
4. Keeps thyroid healthy
Copper plays an important role in thyroid metabolism especially in hormone production and absorption and jackfruit are packed with this essential micromineral.
5. Helps regulate blood pressure levels
One cup of jackfruit contains half of the potassium found in bananas. Potassium, which also helps prevent bone loss, is known for its role to lower blood pressure levels.
6. Supports bowel regularity
Through its fiber content, the jackfruit would be a great help in relieving and preventing constipation.
7. Help prevent night blindness
Who would have thought that jackfruit can also be good for the eyes? It contains a quarter cup of vitamin A in carrots, the food best known for its chockfull of vitamin A.
8. Lowers risk of heart disease
Just like most fruits and vegetables, the jackfruit is also heart-friendly. This is due to its vitamin B6 content which may help reduce homocysteine levels in the blood.
9. Aids in blood clotting
It contains calcium, a mineral that is not only beneficial to bones but also plays a role in blood clotting.
10. Helps prevent anemia
Eating this exotic fruit can help add the iron supply in the body to prevent the common blood disorder, anemia.
Nutrient data source: USDA
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