What is Durian? Learn what the health benefits of durian are. This article will discuss the nutritional value of durian, the vitamin and mineral content, and its health benefits. This popular tropical fruit is found in the countries of Borneo and Sumatra. Read on to learn more! Until then, enjoy a delicious durian! After all, who says eating durian is terrible? There are many health benefits of durian, so why not give it a try?
Durian has a strong and pungent aroma - Photo by Gliezl Bancal
What is Durian?
The durian is an edible fruit native to Borneo and Sumatra. Only one species, durian zibethinus, is available in the international market. Despite this, many people still don't understand the fruit's popularity.
The durian fruit has spikes that poke into you when you cut it. If you aren't comfortable cutting through the thick skin, try to buy a large knife and cut the top portion of the fruit with it. Durian skin is thick and may poke you, but you can pull it back with your hands and pull it off. Be aware that the smell of durian will last the entire day. Alternatively, you can boil or roast the durian stone and then eat it.
A study by scientists in Malaysia found that durian smell is genetically determined. Volatile amines cause the smell in the fruit, which are responsible for its strong, pungent aroma. The smell was so bad that durian was banned in some public transport systems. But that didn't stop people from eating it in the past. Today, the fruit is legal in many Southeast Asian countries, and it's one of the best ways to explore the exotic taste of thorny berry.
Nutrition Facts of Durian
The durian is rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, and protein. It is an excellent energy source, improves skin health, and boosts serotonin levels, promoting well-being. Furthermore, durian is high in B-complex vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and pyridoxine. These vitamins help the body process nutrients. The vitamin B complex is also abundant in the durian and regulates the body's heart rate. Nutrition facts of 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of durian fruit include:
- Calories: 147
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbs: 27 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Vitamin C: 33% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Thiamine: 25% of the DV
- Manganese: 16% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 16% of the DV
- Potassium: 12% of the DV
- Riboflavin: 12% of the DV
- Copper: 10% of the DV
- Folate: 9% of the DV
- Magnesium: 7% of the DV
- Niacin: 5% of the DV
Vitamins and Minerals
The Vitamins and Minerals of Durian may surprise you! This fruit contains protective compounds like antioxidants, polyphenols, anthocyanins, bioflavonoids, and carotenoids. A durian is approximately equivalent to four small apples without skin and one large pear. Though it's a high-calorie fruit, durian has high nutritional value and can contribute to your daily calorie intake. In addition, durian contains many antioxidants that help prevent the damaging effects of free radicals in the body.
The vitamins and minerals of durian are precious. They help support the immune system, enhance energy levels, and improve the digestive and reproductive systems. They also protect against cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure. Moreover, they support healthy skin and reduce free radical damage. Durian is an excellent food to eat for many health benefits. Like other fruits, durian contains a high amount of Vitamin B, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
One of the essential benefits of durian is its ability to promote sexual health. Its antioxidants promote proper blood circulation in the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive adequate nourishment. Vitamin C and copper are both known for their collagen-producing capabilities. Copper helps restore brittle hair to its original condition. Therefore, drinking plenty of water daily is essential, as drinking a glass of durian juice will increase your energy levels.
Health Benefits of Durian
Durian has many Health Benefits, but not all are related to a specific condition. In addition to its nutritional value, durian also helps lower cholesterol levels and reduce the amount of LDL (bad) cholesterol. This is because durian contains antioxidants that help lipids maintain a healthy metabolism. In addition, durian consumption has been linked to improved digestive health.
The health benefits of durian are numerous. The fruit has a taste that is similar to that of cheese or caramel combined with almonds. You can also eat the seeds of the fruit. Both varieties are rich in fiber, which aids digestion. The thiamin in durian improves the digestive system and builds a good appetite. These health benefits of durian make it an excellent food choice for people with diabetes.
Durian contains high levels of phenolics and flavonoids. Phenolics block cancer cell growth. Phenomenics also arrest cancer cell division, causing cancer cells to die. In addition to its antioxidant and anticancer effects, durian is high in tryptophan, a natural amino acid associated with falling asleep. It can also help you sleep better, especially if you have insomnia.
Side Effects
While the Durian fruit is usually eaten raw, you can also add it to a fruit salad or bake it into a dessert. You can even make durian chips with it. Overeating can cause stomach problems, including constipation and gas. Some people experience flatulence and headache after eating durian. People with diabetes should also avoid it. It is not recommended to combine durian with alcohol because of the potential for adverse reactions.
While durian is high in vitamin A, it is unsuitable for pregnant women. The fruit is high in arachidonic acid, leading to prostaglandins forming. These chemicals are responsible for triggering labor. Due to its high alcohol content, durian also breaks down an organ necessary for the fetus. The resulting fetus is not functioning normally. Its consumption during pregnancy could result in preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and swollen hands and face.
Tips on Including Durian in Meal
If you are new to durian, here are some tips for the first-time durian eater. Traditionally, durian is eaten in Southeast Asia. It has a unique taste and can be paired with many different fruits, including coconut and mango. The fruit also goes well in desserts, especially those with coconut. Durian can also be used in smoothies and custards.
First, the fruit itself is delicious. It's best served without its stones, although eating the stone is common. To slice the fruit, use a sharp knife to cut along the seam of the "shell" and remove additional fruit sections. It may smell strong, but it's worth it to experience the taste and texture of durian. Besides that, the fruit is soft and can be eaten with your hands.
After eating durian, take it out of the hull to ensure that you don't get any stains on your hands or in your mouth. It's best to keep durian slices in the fridge or freezer so they don't "contaminate" other foods in the refrigerator.
