Health benefits of eating Durian Fruit

Due to its excessively sweet flavour and intensely pungent odour, durian is known as the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia. 

Durian, although being heavier in fat and calories than many other fruits, contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for foodies all over the world.

There are several varieties, but the most common one is Durio zibethinus.

The fruit’s flesh can range in colour. It’s most commonly yellow or white, but can also be red or green.

Durian grows in tropical regions around the world, particularly in the Southeast Asian countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

The fruit can grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) long and 6 inches (15 cm) wide. A typical durian fruit has about 2 cups (486 grams) of edible pulp.

Nutrition Facts Of Durian Fruit

The durian fruit has an impressive nutrition profile. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 100 g of durian consists of:

• Energy – 147 kcal
• Protein – 1.47 g
• Carbohydrate – 27.09 g
• Fibre – 3.8 g
• Calcium – 6 mg
• Potassium – 436 mg
• Vitamin C – 19.7 mg
• Riboflavin – 0.2 mg
• Folate – 36 micro g

It contains vitamins B6 and A, niacin, and plant compounds, such as flavonoids, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and polyphenols. Durian also contains essential minerals, such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.

Like chocolate, durian can make you happy

Tryptophan is an amino acid found in durian. When it’s broken down, it turns into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel joyful and relaxed. So, the next time you get a joyful feeling when eating a seed or two, you’ll know why.

Reduces cancer risk. 

Its antioxidants may neutralise cancer-promoting free radicals. In one test-tube study, durian extract prevented a strain of breast cancer cells from spreading.

Improve Digestive Health

The dietary fibre in durian helps in easing bowel movement. This, in turn, helps prevent constipation and improves digestive health. The thiamin in the fruit may improve appetite and general well-being in the elderly. The fibre in durian fruit also stimulates peristaltic motion easing the digestive process in the intestines. It also helps treat issues like bloating, excess flatulence, heartburn.

May Assist in the Maintenance of Blood Sugar Levels 

Manganese in durian may assist to keep blood sugar levels in check. In one study, durian consumption enhanced the insulin response curve in ten diabetic patients. Durian’s antioxidants also aid in preventing oxidative stress, which can worsen diabetes symptoms. Durian also has a lower glycemic index (GI) than other fruits. As a result, the fruit would not cause blood sugar levels to rise.

Durian may help regulate blood pressure

Durian can play a part in regulating blood pressure because it is a dietary source of potassium, an electrolyte that helps to maintain blood pressure levels. Having said that, it’s important to also keep those durian seeds in moderation!

May Help Delay Ageing

Durian is rich in vitamin C. The nutrient is a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The lower the oxidative stress levels, the slower the ageing process.

Durian is rich in other antioxidants as well. Studies show that antioxidants can help reduce some signs of skin ageing. The consumption of durian may reduce the signs of premature ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, or age spots. However, direct research is lacking in this aspect.

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