Summer is the time when you need to add food items that are easily digestible and provide a boost of energy to your daily diet. Food items that cool down the body will refresh and rejuvenate you. One of the best summer fruits is the good old jackfruit, which is grown abundantly in our backyards. Jackfruit, which can be eaten both raw and ripe, is a storehouse of nutrients. Loaded with potassium, antioxidants, and fibre, jackfruit is a delicious summer fruit that offers many excellent health benefits as well. However, can patients with cholesterol have it? If so, how should they eat it for health benefits? Read more to understand jackfruit’s nutritional benefits and how cholesterol patients should add it to their diet.
Regulates blood pressure
The potassium in jackfruit helps eliminate excess potassium in the body, thereby regulating blood pressure levels. Besides, jackfruit contains essential antioxidants like vitamin C, carotenoids and flavonoids that can improve the health of heart vessels and increase blood circulation. All these factors help regulate blood pressure levels, keeping them at healthy levels.
Keeps away constipation
Jackfruit is loaded with dietary fibres, which prevent constipation. Including jackfruit in your regular diet, along with proper exercise, will help you lose weight in a healthy manner.
Good for diabetic patients
The fibre in jackfruit slows down the assimilation of carbohydrates from food. So, it regulates the glucose levels in the blood. Meanwhile, jackfruit is an excellent food item that can prevent insulin resistance and diabetes. The antioxidants in jackfruit improve insulin production and control glucose levels in diabetic patients.
The fibre in jackfruit slows down the assimilation of carbohydrates from food. Photo: Shutterstock/pukao
Prevents anaemia
Jackfruit is a fabulous source of vitamin C, it increases the absorption of iron, preventing anaemia. Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin contained in red blood cells. Haemoglobin levels may be lower in those who suffer from anaemia. So, including jackfruit in the regular diet is a great way to prevent anaemia.
Boosts immunity
The antioxidants vitamin C, carotenoids and saponins in jackfruit strengthen the immune system in the body. Moreover, it protects the body from free radicals and various infections, including viral and bacterial ones.
Reduces cholesterol
Most people suffer from high cholesterol due to unhealthy eating habits. Including jackfruit in a regular diet is an effective way to lower cholesterol levels. The fibre in jackfruit fights belly fat, which reduces the risk of heart ailments, heart attack and atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, bioactive antioxidant compounds, such as flavonoids and carotenoids, prevent the oxidation of fat cells. However, you must be mindful of portion size. Moderation is the key, and just about a cup, paired with healthy fats like seeds or nuts, can be pretty beneficial.
Improves mental health
Besides physical health, jackfruit is helpful in ensuring good mental health too. Jackfruit contains lots of carbohydrates that boost the brain. Jackfruit is also an excellent pre-workout food as it can provide energy and strength. So, jackfruit is indeed a superb fruit that can be enjoyed during the summer.