Why Is Jackfruit Good for You?

First found in the forests of India, jackfruit is a very unique and delicious fruit. It is now grown in many parts of the world such as Australia, Africa, Brazil, the Philippines, and Thailand. The tropical fruit has slowly become popular across the world. It can be used to make different dishes or be consumed by itself. It’s sweet and distinctive flavor makes it appealing and interesting to people. But did you know that jackfruit has many health benefits as well? Let’s find out what those are.

Jackfruit is a native fruit to South India. It is part of the Moraceae plant family, which includes mulberry, fig, and breadfruit. Jackfruit is green or yellow in color and has a spiky outer skin. It is really difficult to describe the taste of the jackfruit. The closest one can say is that is sweet and fruity. It tastes like a combination of apples, pineapples, bananas, and mangoes. The shredded texture of jackfruit is very similar to meat. That’s why it used by vegans or vegetarians in India and globally in curries or as a replacement for meat. The biggest issue with jackfruit is its peculiar smell. It smells like rotting onions. Despite the overwhelming smell and sticky texture, the pulp inside is tasty and sweet.

There are two types of jackfruit. One is small and mushy in texture. The other type is crisp and flavorful but not as sweet as the smaller jackfruit. You should pick those depending on the dish you want to make. You consume the fruit pods or the fruit flesh as it is known, ripe or raw. You can even eat the seeds of the jackfruit.

Jackfruit is really healthy. It is high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The flesh of the fruit is quite filling and has moderate amount of calories. It provides about 3 grams of protein per cup which is quite high for a fruit. Kids in tropical climates or developing countries are often fed jackfruit as a wholesome nutritious meal.

As we mentioned, jackfruit is really loaded with antioxidants. These antioxidants can prevent disease and cell damage. They can also fight inflammation and improve your gut health. Jackfruit contains Vitamin C, which prevents chronic diseases and inflammation. It has carotenoids which again reduce inflammation and prevent diseases like diabetes. The flavanones in jackfruit battle high blood pressure and stabilize your cholesterol levels.

Jackfruit is ideal for people looking to manage their blood sugar levels. It has a low glycemic index (GI). GI is an indicator of how quickly your blood sugar rises after consuming a type of food. Diets that include and promote low-GI foods are useful in lowering and managing blood sugar levels. The fiber content in Jackfruit slows digestion down and helps prevent blood sugar spikes. Research has shown that jackfruit can assist with fasting blood sugar levels and long-term blood sugar control in diabetics.

Jackfruit contains folate, riboflavin, niacin, potassium, and magnesium. It is one of the few fruits high in Vitamin B. The total nutrient composition is supposed to better and higher than fruits like apples, bananas, avocados, and apricots.

The fiber component in jackfruit makes it essential for gut health. Constipation, indigestion, and bloating are some of the things it can cure and prevent. It also has a high satiety index which means you feel full for longer. This leads to lower calories consumption, weight loss, and weight maintenance.

Fruit has been getting a bad reputation lately. However, fruits like jackfruits have benefits for your skin and health. The Vitamin C in Jackfruit fights antiaging, sun damage, and pigmentation. Regular consumption of jackfruit or its seeds can give you clearer and healthy skin.

Phytonutrients found in jackfruit are natural compounds that can fight cancer. You should add jackfruit to your meals and dishes as a way of fighting disease and cell damage.

The natural chemicals and minerals in Jackfruit can prevent sores or ulcers from forming in your mouth.

Some people may be allergic to jackfruit. If you birch pollen allergy, then stay away from jackfruit. If you are allergic to apples, hazelnuts, almonds, carrots, or celery then you mostly will be allergic to jackfruit. Consult a medical expert before adding any new foods to your diet. Jackfruit can be eaten raw or cooked.

The fruit is very sticky and smelly. Traditional Indian households often cut the fruit wearing gloves and in an open space. This allows the smell to dissipate quickly. First, slice the jackfruit in half and remove the yellow fruit pods and seeds from the skin and the core. You can do it with a knife or with your hands if you have the strength. Fresh jackfruit is only available in season in tropical countries. You can find tinned or canned versions in grocery stores. If you are making curries or savories, pick the unripe fruit. For desserts or salads, the ripe fruit has the perfect sweetness and texture.