Health Benefits of Jackfruit

By: Esther Vasa

Jackfruit cut up with edible bulbs in place
Jackfruit is unique for its size, shape and taste. A few days ago, we bought a 27 pound jackfruit and today is the day we ended up getting into the action with this delicious fruit. Just like other tropical fruits such as durian or banana, it is also one of the fruits that provides quick energy. People in South India enjoy the fruit, its roots and seeds for their various health benefits. Here are some of the benefits. If you are interested in trying it, you can get it from  Asian markets and/or Carribean food marts. I will turn some of these edible bulbs into a raw pudding and will dehydrate the rest to make raw jackfruit chips.
  • Jackfruit contains Vitamins A, C, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, zinc and niacin among many other nutrients.
  • It is a low calorie fruit with about 90 calories per 100 grams.
  • It is a rich source of potassium and hence helps in lowering blood pressure.
  • Vitamin C found in the fruit is an antioxidant that protects the body against free radicals, strengthens our immune system and keeps our gums healthy and happy.
  • It contains phytonutrients: lignans, isoflavones and saponins known for their anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, anti-ulcer and anti-aging properties.
On the right are the whole jackfruit bulbs,
jackfruit seeds in the middle and
to the left are the bulbs with seeds removed
Jackfruit Root has been found to help those suffering from asthma. Boiling the root of the jackfruit and extracting its high nutritional content has been found to control asthma. The root can also be used to treat skin problems. The extract of jackfruit root is also believed to be able to help cure diarrhoea and fever.

Jackfruit Seeds are very rich in protein and nutritious. I have extracted all the seeds and will be currying some, roast some for snack and will be boiling some like Boiled Peanuts in the South. Their taste and texture is similar to chestnuts. Some use dried jackfruit seeds to prepare flour. That flour is by default, gluten-free and is paleo.