Artocarpus Heterophyllus Lam also known as jackfruit is very nutritious and may even provide several health benefits. It is a fruit native to south India and has grown in popularity in recent years. Many vegans and vegetarians use jackfruit as a shredded meat substitute because of its texture. It pairs well with sauces and dishes you may find at a summer BBQ. It’s packed with nutrients, may help control blood sugar levels, and could even stave off disease. Here are more amazing health benefits of jackfruit.

Jackfruit is Energy-Boosting and Good for Blood Sugar Levels

The jackfruit has many carbohydrates and calories but is very low in fat content. The simple sugars in the jackfruit, such as fructose and sucrose, are easily digested by our bodies and come from a category called “Slowly Available Glucose” or “SAG .” The glucose is released in a slow and restrained way—this aids in reducing the glycemic index of the jackfruit. Because of the low glycemic level, people with diabetes who suffer from blood sugar spikes and high sugar levels can eat the jackfruit without worrying too much about their glucose levels. Nutritionists recommend that everyone who consumes jackfruit consider the higher caloric level and remind people to incorporate physical activity into each day.

Jackfruit is High in Fiber Content

Researchers have found that the jackfruit is high in fiber, with 1.5 grams per 100 grams of serving, considered an excellent fiber source. The fiber is a significant amount of roughage. The dietary fiber found in the jackfruit has a laxative effect that adds bulk to stools and helps to soften them up. The jackfruit’s fiber helps push stools down the digestive canal, which aids digestion and prevents constipation. The fiber helps keep the tracts clean and reduces buildup in the intestines. Research shows that jackfruit contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. Twenty-five percent of the total fiber is soluble fiber, digested in our body, and provides energy.

Jackfruit is High in Antioxidants

Studies have shown that jackfruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is known to help the body against viral and bacterial infections. Vitamin C aids the immune system by strengthening and supporting the white blood cell function. One cup of jackfruit can supply the body with 20% of the daily recommended allowance. The jackfruit contains a good amount of vitamin C, but it also is rich in phytonutrients. Lignans, isoflavones, and saponins have both anti-cancer and anti-aging properties found in jackfruit. Studies show that these phytonutrients may effectively remove cancer-causing free radicals from the body and decrease cell degradation, which leads to degenerative diseases.

Jackfruit Can Benefit Eye Health

Nutritionists and researchers have studied jackfruit and its benefits on eye health. They have found that the jackfruit is high in antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and phenols known to remove free oxygen radicals that damage cells at the DNA level. Research has shown that these free oxygen radicals can damage the retinal cells, leading to long-term diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. The jackfruit is also rich in vitamin A, with a single serving offering 10% of daily requirements. Vitamin A also plays a critical role in maintaining neurological function and healthy skin.

Jackfruit is Good for the Heart

Researchers have studied jackfruit and have found that a single serving contains roughly 10% of the daily potassium requirement. Potassium is considered one of the most critical components that regulate blood pressure. It is known that the proper amount of potassium is needed to control the correct amount of sodium in the body. If the body has a potassium deficiency, sodium levels can spiral out of control, damaging the heart and arteries. Potassium is also responsible for coordinating and maintaining muscle function, including the heart. Potassium helps to balance electrolyte levels. The potassium found in jackfruit helps maintain ideal blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Jackfruit Can Treat Skin Problems

Jackfruit contains a lot of vitamin C, which can benefit your skin from sun damage. Vitamin C helps to produce collagen, the main structural protein in the skin. It also helps to repair and regenerate tissues, so it can help heal wounds. Jackfruit also contains antioxidants that can help treat acne by reducing inflammation and preventing cell damage.

Jackfruit May Help Prevent Ulcers

Jackfruits contain natural chemicals that can help prevent stomach ulcers from forming. The jackfruit’s ability to protect the stomach lining is attributed to the presence of compounds like lignans, isoflavones, and saponins. These chemicals work together to form a barrier that prevents ulcers from developing. Jackfruit also contains a good amount of fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.

Side Effects of Jackfruit

• The jackfruit has many health benefits, but some side effects on health may affect some who eat the fruit.
• Jackfruit is known to cause an allergic reaction in people who suffer from birch pollen allergies.
• People who suffer from blood disorders may have an increase in coagulation.
• Some people with diabetes may have altered tolerance levels of glucose.
• Research has found that the jackfruit seeds have an immunostimulating effect on tissue transplants or immunosuppression therapy patients.
• Jackfruit may inhibit sexual arousal, libido, and vigor in men.

References:

1. Nutritional and Health Benefits of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.): A Review (hindawi.com)
2. What Is Jackfruit — and Is it Healthy? – Cleveland Clinic
3. Jackfruit: Nutrition, Health Benefits, & How to Prepare (webmd.com)
4. Nutritional and Health Benefits of Jackfruit ( Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.): A Review – PubMed (nih.gov)