#HealthBytes: Five health benefits of the exotic fruit, jackfruit
What's the story
Jackfruits are exotic fruits that grow in tropical regions and are most commonly found in South India. These are the largest tree fruits and can grow up to 2-3 feet in size. While the fruit pods are consumed both in their ripe and unripe forms, the jackfruit seeds are edible as well. Read on to know more about the health benefits of jackfruits.
Cholesterol
May lower bad cholesterol levels and prevent heart diseases
LDL cholesterol is the bad cholesterol that can get deposited on the walls of arteries, which may lead to restricted flow of blood. Studies show that consuming jackfruits helps in lowering LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the blood. The free flow of blood in the arteries keeps your BP in control and reduces the risk of heart diseases and stroke.
Cancer
Its extracts could be the future of anticancer therapy
Jackfruits are rich in phytonutrients like flavonoids, which counter the effects of free radicals in the body. Oxidative stress occurs in the body when there's an imbalance between free radical activity and antioxidant activity. This process is associated with several chronic diseases, including cancer. Though studies are in their nascent stage, researchers feel that jackfruit extract could be the future for anticancer therapy.
Antioxidants
This fruit is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants
Jackfruits are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavanones. Vitamin C is critical for maintaining healthy skin and bones. Carotenoids reduce the risk of Type-2 diabetes, while flavanones help lower blood sugar and blood pressure. They also have properties that can prevent contamination caused by bacteria. In addition, the zinc present in the seeds helps with a better immune function.
Blood
Jackfruit seeds increase hemoglobin levels, can cure anemia
Not just the fruit, but jackfruit seeds have a host of health benefits as well and are usually consumed in their cooked form. Jackfruit seeds are a great source of iron. Consuming cooked seeds helps increase iron levels and is a natural cure for people with low hemoglobin levels or anemia. The high iron content of these seeds also prevents other blood-related disorders.
Eye sight
Vitamin A in jackfruit seeds is excellent for your eyes
A diet rich in vitamin A is essential for maintaining good eye health and vision. Jackfruit seeds are a rich source of vitamin A and enhance vision along with keeping away several eye diseases. Vitamin A protects the eyes from intense and harmful light waves like ultraviolet rays and prevents degeneration of the retina and reduces the risk of cataracts.