About Jackfruit
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit, a heart-healthy and nutritious fruit, the scientific name of Jackfruit is Artocarpus heterophyllus. Jackfruit is called a healthy fruit because, this fruit contains a lot of vitamins and minerals, which provide us with healthy and proper nutrition. It is native to South East Asia and South. It is gaining popularity not only for its unique taste but also for its countless health benefits. Jackfruit is the fruit of a tropical tree native to Asia, South America And Africa, many farmers now cultivate it in many parts of the world including Brazil, Australia. Jackfruit has been gaining popularity in the United States for several years.
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that is used raw in a variety of cuisines and when ripe, jackfruit is delicious to eat. Researchers have discovered this fruit, Stating that this fruit is a treasure trove of nutrients and health benefits. Culbertson says many Americans already tend to eat too much jackfruit. In the Philippines, people are using jackfruit to flavor ice.
Health Benefits of Jackfruit
Chronic immunity : Dr. Prakash, a food and nutrition researcher, discusses the antioxidant properties of jackfruit. He notes that the combination of vitamin C, carotenoids and other phenolic compounds in jackfruit can help neutralize free radicals in the body. This antioxidant activity is associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Helps absorb iron from plant-based foods.
Vitamin B : Dr. Subhendu, a food scientist, says that Benefits of Jackfruit is a nutrient-dense fruit that is loaded with various essential vitamins and minerals. He highlights its high vitamin C content, which boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant. It contains several B vitamins, including B6 (pyridoxine), which plays a crucial role in brain development and function, converting food into energy.
Brain Health : These vitamins support brain function and mental clarity. Vitamin B6, for example, is important for the production of neurotransmitters, which affect mood and cognitive function.
Red Blood Cell Formation : Vitamin B are essential for the production and maintenance of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body.
It contains small amounts of thiamine, riboflavin and niacin, which are important for energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin and nerves.
Vitamin A : Jackfruit provides a moderate amount of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which maintains the eyesight of our eyes, besides vitamin A is important for immune system and skin health.
Heart Health : Dr. Anju Sood, a noted nutritionist, points out that the high potassium content of jackfruit makes it useful in maintaining proper heart function and controlling blood pressure. Potassium helps counteract the effects of sodium, thereby helping to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cancer : Jackfruit contains phytochemicals including flavonoids, saponins and tannins. These phytochemicals have various health benefits. Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage. Saponins have been shown to support immune function and may have cholesterol-lowering effects. Tannins are astringent compounds that can aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, many phytochemicals contain antioxidants, which means they can help combat the effects of free radicals.
Highly reactive molecules, free radicals that occur naturally in the body and can damage cells. This damage, known as oxidative stress, may play a role in the development of various chronic diseases, including cancer. A 2017 study found that jackfruit seed extract inhibited the growth of induced, ectopic blood vessels in chick embryos.
The researchers noted that the effects may be from a combination of flavonoids, saponins, and tannins in the extracts, and jackfruit extract may have potential as an anticancer therapy in the future.
Blood Sugar Levels : Jackfruit has an intermediate GI (GI) score, a system for determining how a food affects a person’s blood glucose levels. Foods with a high GI score are more likely to cause a rise in blood glucose than those with a low score.
Ulcer : Jackfruit contains nutrients that can prevent stomach ulcers.
Manganese : Manganese plays an important role in bone formation, blood clotting and reducing inflammation.
Potassium : The potassium content in jackfruit helps regulate blood pressure and helps maintain good heart health by balancing sodium levels in the body.
Copper : Copper contributes to the formation of red blood cells, maintaining healthy bones and supporting the immune system.
Magnesium : The magnesium in jackfruit contributes to bone health, muscle function and the regulation of blood sugar levels.
Calcium : Calcium is very important for keeping bones and teeth strong. It helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Heart muscle contraction and calcium are involved in blood clotting and relaxation.
Iron : Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Improves oxygen transport, iron increases energy levels and reduces fatigue.
Dietary Fiber : The fiber content in jackfruit aids digestion, helps maintain healthy bowel movements, and can contribute to weight control by promoting satiety.
A 2011 study investigated the effects of jackfruit leaf extract in mice on Trusted Source induced diabetes. At the end of the study, those who consumed jackfruit leaf extract had higher insulin levels and lower blood glucose levels.
A 2013 study investigated the wound healing of jackfruit leaf extract in pig skin samples. The researchers concluded that extracts from jackfruit leaves can promote wound healing.
According to a 2014 review, jackfruit contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which could potentially assist in wound healing.
A 2016 test-tube study found that jackfruit bark extract contains chemicals that inhibit the breakdown of fats and complex carbohydrates into sugars. Researchers have suggested that the chemicals may be effective in managing diabetes.
A 2019 review of trusted sources notes that jackfruit contains numerous phytonutrients, plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties. These include lignin, isoflavones and saponins.
Researchers have found that jackfruit leaf extract contains flavonoids that might help prevent cell death in the pancreas, an organ responsible for producing insulin.
Rate of Vitamin and Mineral Terms
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. Here is an approximate breakdown for a 100-gram portion of jackfruit :
| Calories | 95 |
| Protein | 1.72 gm |
| Carbohydrates | 23.25 gm |
| Sugar | 19.08 gm |
| Fiber | 1.5 gm |
| Fat | 0.64 gm |
| Vitamin A | 110 IU | 2% of the DV |
| Vitamin C | 13.7 mg | 15% of the DV |
| Thiamine B1 | 0.105 mg | 9% of the DV |
| Riboflavin B2 | 0.055 mg | 4% of the DV |
| Niacin B3 | 0.92 mg | 6% of the DV |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.329 mg | 25% of the DV |
| Folate B9 | 24 ยตg | 6% of the DV |
| Potassium | 448 mg | 10% of the DV |
| Magnesium | 29 mg | 7% of the DV |
| Calcium | 24 mg | 2% of the DV |
| Iron | 0.23 mg | 1% of the DV |
| Phosphorus | 21 mg | 2% of the DV |
| Sodium | 2 mg | 0% of the DV |
| Zinc | 0.13 mg | 1% of the DV |
Conclusion
The consensus among scientists and nutritionists is that jackfruit is a health dense, highly nutritious fruit that is rich in vitamins and minerals that provide multiple health benefits. Besides, its high vitamin C, potassium and dietary fiber content along with other essential nutrients make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Researchers continue to explore its potential health benefits, particularly its role in preventing chronic disease and overall wellness. Another benefit of jackfruit is that cooking raw jackfruit, or eating more of the pulp (which contains the seeds) of ripe jackfruit, improves bowel movements and cleanses the stomach.