Persimmon might be the new social media rage, but it is also a nutrition powerhouse - 5 key benefits

Persimmon fruit is blowing up on social media with its unique recipes, bright orange glow and unique texture, but this ancient fruit from Asia is far more than a pretty picture. The fruit, also known as Ramphal, contains vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants which provide actual health benefits to consumers. A single medium persimmon contains 118 calories, together with 6 grams of fiber, that provides vitamin A for eye and immune system health, vitamin C for skin health, wound recovery, and potassium, which supports heart wellness. Let's discover more benefits of this fruit.

The body protects itself from free radicals through the powerful antioxidants beta-carotene, flavonoids and tannins, which are present in persimmons. These compounds decrease oxidative stress, which contributes to aging, heart disease and cancer development. Research indicates that persimmon extracts demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties, by reducing inflammation markers, and protect cells from damage, according to animal model studies.

The fruit contains better free radical scavenging properties than several well-known fruits, because of its carotenoid and polyphenol content. The action helps prevent the progression of chronic diseases, which result in artery hardening. Research studies which used human participants to test persimmon supplements, demonstrated that people who consumed persimmon supplements each day, experienced increased blood antioxidant levels. The daily serving amount of this product provides automatic cell defense through natural body functions, without needing any extra medical treatment.

The heart benefits from persimmons, because they contain three essential nutrients which include fiber, potassium and hypocholesterolemic compounds, that reduce LDL cholesterol levels. The soluble fiber in this product binds to cholesterol in the digestive system, before it exits the body through stool. The body maintains blood pressure equilibrium through potassium, which helps to relax blood vessel walls.

Rats who consumed high-fat diets in research studies, showed that persimmon powder consumption led to elevated HDL good cholesterol levels and decreased triglycerides, because it enhanced their ability to remove bile acids. Research on human subjects shows that flavonoids in this plant, help people lower their inflammation and blood pressure, which results in decreased chances of experiencing a stroke. One persimmon provides 6% of the daily potassium needs, which helps maintain body fluid equilibrium.

The fiber in persimmon, promotes smooth digestion by adding bulk to stool, and feeding gut bacteria as a prebiotic. It thus helps with constipation, while it maintains microbiome health, which leads to improved nutrient absorption. Research studies show that persimmon contains pectin-like fibers which enable people with low fiber consumption to develop normal bowel movements. The substance serves as a protective agent which forms a protective barrier with toxins to safeguard the intestinal membrane. The product contains natural fibers that help stop bloating from occurring.

The fruit persimmons contain more than 50% of your daily vitamin A and vitamin C which helps your body fight infections and build immunity. The body depends on Vitamin A to defend its skin and mucous membranes because these tissues function as its first line of defense. Vitamin C serves as a white blood cell stimulant which also helps the body produce collagen for wound recovery.

Research indicates that persimmon contains specific compounds, which eliminate free radicals, that harm immune function when stress occurs. The beta-carotene content in this food transforms into vitamin A, which helps protect both the lungs and eyes. The combination of these two elements provides superior protection against respiratory diseases during cold months, than taking supplements by themselves.

The antidiabetic properties of persimmons stem from their low glycemic index, fiber content and bioactive compounds, which help to reduce the speed at which sugar enters the body. The combination of Gallic acid and proanthocyanidins, enables people to develop improved insulin sensitivity, while their blood sugar levels decrease.Studies involving animals, demonstrate that these substances stop fat accumulation while they help control blood sugar levels. The 118-calorie snack contains fiber which helps you feel full, while preventing hunger pangs and avoiding energy crashes.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice