Jackfruit: A Tropical Delight with a Nutritional Punch, But Is It For Everyone?
Jackfruit is a popular fruit among Vietnamese people, with its sweet and fragrant bulbs enjoyed by many. Ripe jackfruit can be consumed directly, paired with other fruits, or even mixed with yogurt for a delicious treat.
Nutritionally, it is quite impressive. According to Vietnamnet, herbalist Bui Dac Sang of the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, jackfruit contains 72.3% water, 1.7% protein, 23.7% glucid, and 0.3% lipid.
Per 100 grams, jackfruit provides 94 calories, along with essential minerals and vitamins, including 27mg of calcium, 38mg of phosphorus, 0.6mg of iron, 2mg of sodium, and a substantial 407mg of potassium.
In traditional Oriental medicine, jackfruit is believed to have a sweet and slightly sour taste, with a pleasant aroma. It is considered to benefit the spleen and stomach and tonify qi (energy).
However, despite its delicious taste and nutritional benefits, jackfruit may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some instances where it’s best to avoid or limit your consumption of this tropical treat:
Liver Conditions, Such as Fatty Liver Disease
Jackfruit is high in fructose and glucose, which can rapidly increase blood sugar levels and place a burden on the liver. For individuals with liver conditions, especially fatty liver disease, the high sugar content can exacerbate the issue. It is recommended to opt for lower-sugar fruits like apples or grapefruit to support liver health.
Diabetes
Diabetics need to closely monitor their sugar intake. Jackfruit, with its high fructose and glucose content, can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making it difficult to manage the condition. Therefore, it is advisable for diabetics to limit or avoid consuming jackfruit to prevent complications.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Jackfruit is rich in potassium, which can be detrimental to individuals with chronic kidney disease. When kidney function declines, the body struggles to excrete excess potassium, leading to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood). This condition can cause sudden cardiac arrest without warning. Therefore, it is crucial for those with chronic kidney disease to opt for lower-potassium fruits like apples or grapes.
Fatigue and Weak Constitution
Consuming large amounts of jackfruit may cause digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion for individuals with a weak constitution or those experiencing fatigue. It can also increase cardiac activity and elevate blood pressure. The high fiber content can be challenging for the digestive system to handle in large quantities. If desired, individuals with these conditions should limit their intake and monitor their body’s response.
Chronic Illnesses and Medication:
Individuals with chronic illnesses who are on medication should exercise caution when consuming jackfruit. It is advisable to consult a physician to determine if and how much jackfruit can be safely included in the diet to avoid any negative interactions with medication or adverse effects on health.
