This week You! takes a look at some health benefits of the seasonal fruit, perisimmon...
health
Love it or hate it, but you can’t deny its benefits. A vivid orange fruit of the fall, persimmon is an underrated fruit that deserves the same hype as pumpkins. It has been cultivated in parts of Asia for at least 1,000 years. Persimmon fruit is an excellent source of fibre, Vitamin A and C, Vitamin B6, potassium and the mineral manganese. They are fat-free and are a good source of healthy carbohydrates and natural sugar.
What’s more, they may promote heart health, reduce inflammation, support healthy vision and keep your digestive system healthy. Plus, they are tasty and pair well with many foods. With all the benefits that persimmons have to offer, adding these tasty fruits to your diet should be a no-brainer.
When it comes to heart health, fruits and vegetables reign supreme. A large review of studies shows that getting 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day cuts heart disease rates by 28 per cent and the risk of premature death by 31 per cent. The potassium in persimmons reduces blood pressure, while folate and vitamin C help prevent strokes and heart attacks. Moreover, Persimmons contain flavonoid antioxidants and tannins, which also benefit heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering inflammation and decreasing cholesterol levels.
Those who suffer from diabetes are prone to hunger cravings, and that too quite often. Being rich in fibres, this fruit can be relished by diabetics to curb the hunger levels. Since the fruit has phytochemicals (plant chemicals), these chemicals inhibit the enzyme that converts carbohydrates to sugar on digestion. In other words, phytochemicals slow down the entry of simple sugar in the blood and thus helps managing blood glucose levels. It is an excellent source of antioxidants that reduces oxidative stress and further prevents diabetes-related complications.
Being a rich source of antioxidants, this fruit helps in curtailing the free radicals. These, otherwise, can damage cells and trigger cancer. The presence of vitamin A, as well as shibuol and betulinic acid, enriches the cancer-combating properties of this fruit. More specifically, fruits in the orange and yellow category, including persimmons, have been shown to reduce the rate of colon cancer in women. The beta carotene content is believed to help control the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Persimmons provide lots of vitamin A and antioxidants that are critical for eye health. In fact, one persimmon delivers 55 per cent of the recommended intake of vitamin A. Vitamin A supports the functioning of the conjunctival membranes and cornea. Moreover, it is an essential component of rhodopsin, a protein necessary for normal vision. Persimmons also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoid antioxidants that promote healthy vision. Diets rich in lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of certain eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, a disease that impacts the retina and can cause vision loss
Conditions like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, cancer and obesity are all linked to chronic inflammation. Luckily, choosing foods that are high in anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce inflammation and lower disease risk. Persimmons are an excellent source of the potent antioxidant vitamin C. In fact, one persimmon contains 20 per cent of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and combats inflammation in the body.
Large studies have linked higher dietary intake of vitamin C to a reduced risk of inflammatory conditions like heart disease, prostate cancer and diabetes Persimmons also contain carotenoids, flavonoids and vitamin E, all of which are potent antioxidants that fight inflammation in the body.
A medium sized fruit weighs around 168 grams and offers just 31 grams of carbohydrates. This fruit has hardly any fat in it. These two factors make it an ideal friend for those who wish to snack on while trying to shed those extra pounds!
Slice persimmons onto a salad for a flavourful addition. Top your morning yogurt or oatmeal with fresh or cooked persimmon for a burst of natural sweetness. Roast persimmons in the oven and drizzle with honey for a tasty and healthy dessert. Mix dried or fresh persimmon into muffin, bread or cake mix. Combine with berries and citrus fruits for a delicious fruit salad.
A strong immunity is very important especially since we are still a part of a coronavirus pandemic and consuming seasonal fruits are a good way to boost immunity. Being a good source of Vitamin C, the fruit, when used regularly in your balanced diet, can help in strengthening the immunity levels. Thus, it acts as a shield against common cold, flu, as well as various lung infections, including asthma.
