Jackfruit is synonymous with India and its favorable climate for the growth of this super-fruit in a manner of speaking. There are literally numerous benefits of jackfruit, especially if you consume it regularly. It is a tropical and nutrient-packed fruit which requires a typically humid and warm climate for growth. The jackfruit, as we all know, is fleshy within and thorny outside. The fleshy portion is eaten directly, cooked or cut. In its unripe form, it is uniquely similar to meat, making it a vegan substitute of sorts. In this article, you will learn all about the benefits of eating jackfruit.
Jackfruit Nutrition Value
Here is a list of Jackfruit nutrition facts for your perusal. 100 grams of jackfruit contains the following nutrients:
Calories- 94
Carbohydrates- 24 g
Dietary fiber- 2 g
Protein- 1 g
Fat- 0.3 mg
Potassium- 303 mg
Calcium- 34 mg
Iron- 0.6 mg
Folate- 14 mcg
Besides, jackfruit also contains other vital nutrients like Vitamin A, C, riboflavin, thiamine, zinc, sodium, and niacin. As can be seen, the jackfruit nutrition quotient is immensely high as it contains several crucial vitamins and minerals.
Top 10 Jackfruit Health Benefits
Here is a list of the biggest benefits of jackfruit for regular consumers:
1. Works as an Immunity BoosterÂ
Jackfruit contains Vitamin C in high amounts along with antioxidants. It helps in giving your immune system a massive boost along with combating infections.Â
2. Provides EnergyÂ
A single 100g serving, as mentioned, comes with 94 Kcal of valuable energy and it is also packed with carbohydrates of the good variety. You will get an instant energy spike upon eating jackfruit which has easily digestible sugars as well.Â
3. Enhances Cardiovascular Health
One of the common jackfruit uses is regulation of blood pressure levels and improved cardiovascular health. Potassium in the fruit ensures balanced sodium content in the body while also ensuring better muscle functioning in the heart. Jackfruit contains potassium in sufficient amounts with regard to ensuring better heart health.
4. Boosts Digestive AbilitiesÂ
Regular jackfruit consumption can go a long way towards improving digestion since it contains both insoluble and soluble fibers. The latter is broken down swiftly by the body for energy production while the former ensures better stools and bowel movements in turn.Â
5. Combats CancerÂ
Jackfruit consumption helps greatly in tackling various cancers with its phytonutrients, antioxidants and flavonoids. These antioxidants help greatly in reducing toxins generated by the body along with free radicals as well.Â
6. Boosts EyesightÂ
Jackfruit is loaded with Beta-Carotene or Vitamin A, enabling better eyesight and protection from several infections. It also helps protect our eyes from harmful UV rays, while tackling retinal degeneration and lowering cataract risks greatly.Â
7. Reverses AgingÂ
Free radicals play a major part in aging. They are produced whenever oxidative stress levels increase in the body, especially due to pollution. Jackfruit comes with antioxidants that eliminate such free radicals, thereby slowing the procedure of aging.Â
8. Ensures Higher Bone StrengthÂ
Jackfruit consumption is beneficial for enhancing bone strength as well. Jackfruit contains calcium in higher amounts, thereby helping manage issues like osteoporosis and arthritis.Â
9. Positively Impacts the Quality of Blood
Jackfruit comes with iron in sufficient amounts and this positively impacts blood quality, preventing issues like anemia and helping in stimulating your metabolism. It also contains copper, Vitamin C, and magnesium, all of which contribute towards better blood quality.Â
10. Helps Tackle AsthmaÂ
Asthma is a difficult condition to manage for many people. However, consumption of jackfruit can help control asthmatic symptoms while destroying free radicals that lead to asthmatic seizures or attacks.Â
There are jackfruit benefits during pregnancy as well. It may help in proper development of the baby while helping prevent fatigue and stomach ulcers at this crucial time.
Side Effects of Jackfruit
There are some jackfruit disadvantages or side effects although they are quite rare. Here is a list:
- Some people may have jackfruit allergies. These may lead to some issues.Â
- Jackfruit may sometimes lead to drowsiness or extreme fatigue. This happens if it is consumed with sedative medication.Â
The Bottom Line
Jackfruit is one of the best fruits for regular consumption. It will help you with better bone strength and blood quality, while enhancing cardiovascular health, digestion, eye sight and even helping in reducing cancer risks. These attributes make jackfruit an all-rounder for sure. You should start consuming it regularly to reap long-term health benefits!Â
FAQs
What are the benefits of eating jackfruit?
Eating jackfruit comes with myriad health benefits including relief from constipation, ulcers and even high blood pressure. Jackfruit also helps with several skin issues and improves overall eyesight. It is good for building bone strength owing to its calcium content.Â
Why does jackfruit taste like meat?
Jackfruit usually tastes and resembles meat in its unripe state within the pod. This has a texture that is fibrous and is inherently without any taste. You can flavor it with any spice for cooking and it will take on the same. It may be cooked as a curry, boiled or even grilled.Â
Who should not eat jackfruit?
People with allergies should avoid jackfruit, especially those with birch pollen or similar allergies. Those with diabetes should check their medication if they wish to consume jackfruit regularly. Consulting the doctor is always necessary in this regard.Â
Is jackfruit good for weight loss?Â
Experts feel that jackfruit may help with weight loss. This is because it has sufficient fiber content, keeping the stomach fuller for longer durations. This prevents overeating and helps the body consume fewer calories throughout the day, thereby enabling weight loss in the long haul.Â
Is jackfruit healthier than meat?
Jackfruit is a vegan or vegetarian alternative to chicken and other meat. It contains a little less than 3g of protein in each cup. It has lower protein than meat which is something you should keep in mind.Â