Health Benefits of Jackfruit

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Apr 07, 2022 • 3 min Read

Jackfruit or Langka in Tagalog is the largest tree fruit in the world. Jackfruit is a good source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients. It is considered as an excellent substitute for meat and sometimes referred to as “vegetable meat.” Research suggests of health benefits from it.

Langka is usually used as flavoring in ice cream and a Filipino delicacy called ‘turon’. Unripe jackfruit is usually cooked as vegetable like ginataang langka or as faux meat, since its fibrous texture can mimic meat quite well; while ripe jackfruit can be eaten raw, boiled, or may be used for desserts, like in halo-halo.

Here are some of the amazing benefits of this tropical fruit, from Organic Facts:

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

The fiber content in jackfruit can help manage your cholesterol levels and prevent the deposition of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. The antioxidants and vitamin C can help repair the cardiovascular system and reduce oxidative stress, which can cause blood vessels to break down, leading to coronary heart disease.

2. Skin Care

With a healthy dose of antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, jackfruit can be beneficial for skin health, as it can minimize the effects of free radicals and oxidative stress, which can include wrinkles, blemishes, and age spots, while also giving your skin a healthy glow.

3. Promotes Weight Loss

Due to surprisingly low-calorie content, rich nutrient supply, and dietary fiber, it is excellent for people trying to lose weight. It can induce satiety and prevent overeating, and snacking between meals, without compromising your daily caloric restrictions or goals.

4. Aids Digestion

The elevated levels of dietary fiber found in jackfruit is very good for stimulating digestive processes and reducing symptoms of constipation, bloating, and cramping. It can induce peristaltic motion and bulk up the stool, while helping improve the efficiency of nutrient uptake in the gut.

5. Boosts Immunity

The presence of vitamin C and various antioxidants makes the fruit an excellent booster for the immune system. Vitamin C can stimulate the production of white blood cells, while antioxidants will prevent oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals before they can cause chronic disease and inflammation.

6. Reduces Blood Pressure

There is a notable amount of potassium found in jackfruit, and a 100-gram serving can provide more than 5% of your daily recommended intake of this mineral. Potassium is a vasodilator that it can relax blood vessels and arteries, which will reduce blood pressure and lower the stress on the cardiovascular system, lowering your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

7. Controls Diabetes

A good supply of fiber and natural sugar is an excellent way to control blood sugar levels and lower the risk of diabetes. A study by the International Journal of Food Science shows that a warm water extract of the jackfruit leaves improved glucose tolerance in the prescribed subjects and for people with diabetes.

8. Improves Vision

There is a good amount of beta-carotene found in jackfruit breaks down into vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing oxidative stress in the eyes, preventing macular degeneration, and slowing the onset of cataracts. Jackfruit is partly considered a new “superfood.”

9. Improves Sleep

Jackfruit contains a significant level of magnesium, an essential mineral that can affect neurotransmitter levels in the body, helping regulate Circadian rhythms and ensure healthy sleep. If you struggle with insomnia or regular interrupted sleep, having jackfruit before bed may help alleviate your exhaustion.

Indeed, jackfruit is both delicious and nutritious. Start adding this tasty and juicy fruit in your daily diet and enjoy its benefits!

Stay healthy and safe!