2023-09-12 15:40:25
The outer skin of jackfruit is green, with knob-like protrusions all over it. The yellow pulp is wrapped with seeds and pulp. As shown in the picture. (Shutterstock)
Text/Sandra Cesca Compiler/Zhang Yu
In addition to being sweet and delicious, many tropical fruits are rich in bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation, high blood pressure, and even reduce the risk of cancer. Jackfruit is one of them.A jackfruit tree can produce many fruits in a year. (Shutterstock)
Jackfruit is the “national fruit” of Bangladesh. It looks strange. It has a green skin with tumor-like protrusions all over it. The pulp is separated by white sticky, separated by clumps of yellow pulp. The yellow pulp wraps each seed and is full of every seed pit.
Taiwan has a long history of cultivating jackfruit, also known as jackfruit. Due to suitable climate conditions, the fruit can be harvested almost all year round. The main peak season is between May and September, and between January and February in winter.
The unripe pulp of jackfruit can be dried and eaten as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes. The ripe pulp can be eaten directly or made into cakes, custards, curries and smoothies. The yellow flesh surrounding the seeds is sweet and delicious, and the seeds can also be roasted and eaten as a snack.
Jackfruit is rich in bioactive compounds that are not only delicious but also beneficial to the body. (Shutterstock)
Because jackfruit is rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, it is considered a miracle fruit in tropical countries where it grows.
The largest producer of jackfruit in the world is India, followed by Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico and Nepal.
︱Nutritional value︱
Jackfruit has a wide range of nutritional and medicinal values. Although it is low in protein overall and contains only a small amount of one of the amino acids, it is considered a complete protein source because it contains nine essential amino acids.
The most common vitamins and minerals contained in jackfruit include: vitamins A, C, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc.
Although jackfruit pulp contains sugar, most of which is fructose, the fiber and protein in jackfruit pulp help slow down sugar metabolism and keep the glycemic index at a moderate level. Half a cup of fresh pulp contains only 94 calories, so it is suitable for people with type B diabetes. Also suitable for eating.
︱Biologically active compounds︱
According to the National Cancer Institute, bioactive compounds are chemicals found in plants that have health benefits. Phytonutrients are substances produced by plants to protect themselves. Many of them are bioactive compounds that are beneficial to the human body. Common phytonutrients include carotenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, indoles, isoflavones and resveratrol.
Recently, flavonoids have attracted scientific interest due to their positive effects on health and potential role in chronic disease management. As stated in a 2016 article in Current Opinion in Food Science, phytonutrients, particularly polyphenols, play an important role in metabolic syndrome, particularly inflammation and oxidation.
Since ancient times, jackfruit, rich in these beneficial compounds, has been known for its therapeutic properties, including anti-cancer, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects.
Jackfruit is also rich in potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The iron in jackfruit helps prevent anemia and contributes to normal blood circulation, while the copper contained in jackfruit plays a vital role in thyroid metabolism.
Niacin, another nutrient found in jackfruit, is necessary for energy metabolism, nerve function, and the synthesis of certain hormones.
Some of the phytonutrients found in jackfruit have been studied for their effects on mental health, including stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Another 2018 study in Nutritional Neuroscience showed that carotenoids can significantly reduce anxiety, lower cortisol, and reduce emotional and physical symptoms of ill health. Further research is needed to confirm jackfruit and its mental health benefits and therapeutic uses.
︱Anti-aging properties︱
The vitamin A in jackfruit promotes eye health and may fight age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Vitamin C helps slow down the skin’s natural aging process by providing sun protection and promoting collagen production.
Jackfruit is high in magnesium and calcium, which can help prevent bone-related diseases like osteoporosis, and research suggests magnesium may help relieve insomnia.
The dietary fiber in jackfruit helps in the normal functioning of the digestive system. May reduce constipation problems, reduce the risk of colon and rectal cancer, hernias and hemorrhoids. This fiber can also help lower glucose and cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of obesity.
To get the best quality nutrients, flavor and taste from tropical fruits, the fruit should be eaten raw, including the skin, except for the skin of jackfruit. Fruit gradually loses its nutritional value and disease-fighting properties over time following being picked, so it is important to eat it promptly.
For the English report, please visit the English Epoch Times website: Strange, Nutritious, and Delicious: Jackfruit. ◇
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