The snake fruit brings many health benefits. This fruit is grown in many countries around the world, including Vietnam. Whether in dried or fresh form, snake fruit is equally delicious.
Although snake fruit has a sweet taste, its glycemic index is quite ideal, ranging from 33 to 55 depending on the type. According to Dr. Michael Crupain, a nutrition expert and lecturer at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (USA): “Snake fruit comes in many varieties, each with its own rich flavor. While some people worry about their sugar content, snake fruit is actually a low glycemic food, partly because it is high in fiber. Snake fruit is a great alternative to sweets or a perfect choice when you crave something sweet.”
This fruit contains natural sugars and also has many calories. However, it has only a negligible amount of fat and a lot of health-enhancing substances such as antioxidants, fiber, and other beneficial compounds. The nutritional composition of snake fruit gives it the characteristics of a superfood.
Rich in antioxidants, prevents cancer-related diseases
Research stored in the National Library of Medicine (NIH) shows that snake fruit contains many phenolic antioxidants (including catechins) as well as flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties.
Harvard School of Public Health states that antioxidants help fight free radicals (cell-damaging substances), repair DNA, and keep our cells healthy, preventing cancer cells. Therefore, a diet high in fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants is especially good for human health.
Abundant in fiber, good for the digestive system
Fiber plays a crucial role in keeping our digestive system functioning well and reducing the risk of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. At the same time, it also helps you maintain a reasonable weight.
Snake fruit is a fruit with good fiber content. On average, two snake fruits contain about 3g of fiber, over 10% of the recommended daily intake. Therefore, eating snake fruit helps you feel full. The fiber in snake fruit nourishes gut bacteria and keeps them functioning regularly.
Good for cardiovascular health
Antioxidants and fiber in snake fruit help reduce inflammation to support cardiovascular health. The fiber in this fruit can also support healthy cholesterol and neutral fats. This can create a healthier cardiovascular system.
Snake fruit contains soluble fiber which helps reduce bad cholesterol and prevent its absorption into your blood. Thanks to that, it prevents the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Strengthens bone and joint health
Snake fruit contains various nutrients beneficial to bone health, such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, etc. Especially, snake fruit contains a rich amount of copper, another mineral that can support strong bones.
In addition, snake fruit is also proven to be good for the brain, support natural childbirth, control blood sugar, and effectively improve the skin.
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