May 4, 2015
This post is on Healthwise
The flesh emits a very strong smell, which could ideally dissuade a first-time eater from trying it. Despite possessing a very strong odor, it is known to have a fantastic effect on the taste buds. Unique in taste, this fruit is packed with assorted nutrients and hence, offers benefits that surely are noteworthy.
A single durian weighs nearly 602 grams and is a good source of energy. 100 grams of this fruit renders about 147 Kcal of energy, which is about 7% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
The fruit does not contain any cholesterol, but is a great source of dietary fiber and protein. Let’s take a look at the benefits offered by the ‘King of Fruits’ before you start munching on it.
Durian Fruit Benefits For Health:
1. A good source of energy:
100 grams of this fruit satiates about 21% of the daily carbohydrate requirement. Being a rich source of carbohydrates, it is helpful in replenishing your energy levels (1).
2. Acts as a natural anti-depressant:
Studies have proven that low levels of serotonin could actually trigger depression. Durian is naturally rich in Vitamin B6 which is essential for the production of serotonin. Hence, the intake of durian is advised to boost serotonin levels and thus, tide over depression (2).
3. For healthy bones and teeth:
The presence of calcium, potassium and B vitamins in significant amounts makes this fruit beneficial for maintaining healthy teeth and bones (3).
4. Aids in delaying aging:
Vitamin C is found in abundance in this fruit. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to keep the oxidative stress prompted by free radicals at bay (4). The lower the oxidative stress levels, the slower the aging process.
5. For a healthy digestive system:
The presence of dietary fiber in durian helps in easing bowel movement. This in turn keeps away constipation and improves the power of digestion. The presence of thiamin and niacin improves appetite as well as digestive power, thus ensuring that your digestive system stays healthy (5).
6. Maintaining blood sugar levels:
The presence of manganese in desired levels aids in the regulation and maintenance of blood sugar levels (6). Hence, it can be relished by diabetics without any fear.
7. Maintaining blood pressure levels:
Durian is a good source of potassium which is required to keep the sodium levels of the human body intact. Regular intake of this fruit can thus ward off hypertension and associated medical conditions (7).
8. Beneficial for Anaemic patients:
Folate, if not present in adequate quantities, could lower the amount of red blood cells produced. This in turn can trigger anaemia. Durian is a good source of folate along with copper and iron (8). Hence, anaemic patients can tap the power of this fruit to overcome the health condition.
9. Helps to prevent cardiovascular diseases:
The presence of organosulfur helps it to regulate the inflammatory enzymes. Hence, it has the potential to keep cardiovascular diseases away.
10. For a better libido:
Durian is known to enhance libido. Thus, it helps in revitalizing your sexual life (9).