Health & Life

The Miracle ‘Breadfruit’ of Vietnam: Bright Eyes, Glowing Skin, and Disease Prevention

Jackfruit, a cousin of breadfruit and mulberries, boasts a rich source of complex carbohydrates and a low-fat, low-cholesterol profile, making it a nutritionally-rich fruit.

Administrator

13 June, 2024

The breadfruit tree, with the scientific name Artocarpus altilis, belongs to the Moraceae family, the same family as jackfruit and mulberry. Native to South America, the breadfruit tree is a nutrient-rich plant that offers a range of health benefits. Its fruits and seeds are commonly used as food, while its roots and leaves are employed in herbal medicine.

Breadfruit has a rough, green outer shell and is filled with white fibers. This fruit is rich in complex carbohydrates and low in fat and cholesterol, making it a nutritious food source. The vitamins and minerals found in breadfruit provide a host of health advantages, including support for joint and eye health, as well as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

May Reduce Joint and Muscle Pain

Several studies indicate that consuming breadfruit may support joint health and alleviate muscle pain. Breadfruit contains prenylated phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, which can combat the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints and the gradual breakdown of the tissues between them. While diet cannot cure muscle and joint pain, nutrition can play a significant role in alleviating symptoms. Eating foods rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, like breadfruit, may help reduce inflammation caused by oxidative stress.

Several studies indicate a potential link between breadfruit consumption and reduced joint pain.

Provides All Essential Amino Acids

Protein is an essential macronutrient required by the body for cell repair and growth. While protein-rich foods like meat typically offer the highest protein content per serving, studies have found that breadfruit is an excellent source of amino acids—the building blocks of protein.

The human body can produce most amino acids, except for nine essential ones that must be obtained from our diet. Breadfruit provides all nine essential amino acids and is particularly rich in phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Phenylalanine serves as a precursor to neurotransmitters, helping to regulate mood and cognitive function. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine aid in muscle repair. Including breadfruit in a balanced diet can benefit those following vegetarian or vegan diets or those seeking to supplement their essential amino acid intake.

May Support Eye Health

Breadfruit is an abundant source of carotenoids and lutein, both of which play a crucial role in maintaining eye health. This fruit is especially rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A—an essential nutrient for eye function and health.

Vitamin A, for instance, is necessary for the production of pigments in the retina and for maintaining moisture in the eyes. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to night blindness and other vision problems.

Incorporating breadfruit into a balanced diet may help prevent eye diseases and maintain good vision over time.

Breadfruit is rich in carotenoids and lutein, both vital for eye health.

May Help Prevent Bacterial Infections

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, breadfruit may also offer antibacterial support. Its antibacterial activity is believed to stem from its bioactive compounds. This tropical fruit contains ethyl acetate and methanol extracts, both of which have been linked to antibacterial activity.

Research suggests that consuming breadfruit may help protect the body against pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, and Enterococcus faecalis.

While further studies are needed to fully understand breadfruit’s antibacterial capabilities, incorporating it into a balanced diet may support the body’s natural defenses against foodborne illnesses, skin infections, and other bacterial ailments.

Provides a Nutritious Flour Alternative

Breadfruit is gluten-free, making it an ideal flour choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Studies have compared the digestibility of breadfruit flour to wheat flour and found that breadfruit flour is more easily digested.

Additionally, cooked breadfruit is a good source of fiber and other essential nutrients. A cup of cooked breadfruit provides up to 8 grams of fiber. Including breadfruit in a balanced diet can help meet your fiber needs and improve gut health. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating appetite, supporting metabolism, and protecting the body from chronic inflammation.

Cooked breadfruit is a good source of fiber and essential nutrients.

Precautions when Eating Breadfruit

While breadfruit is generally safe for healthy adults, it may pose risks for individuals taking certain medications. Breadfruit may have 5-alpha reductase inhibitory activity, similar to drugs used to treat prostate enlargement and male pattern baldness. Therefore, those taking 5-alpha reductase inhibitors should exercise caution when consuming breadfruit in any form.

Individuals with a history of kidney problems should also avoid consuming large amounts of breadfruit, as this fruit is high in potassium and magnesium, which are filtered by the kidneys. Overconsumption may lead to a buildup of these nutrients in individuals with reduced kidney function. Those with kidney issues should consult a doctor before adding breadfruit to their diet.

Although allergic reactions to breadfruit are rare, they can occur. Breadfruit belongs to the mulberry family, so those allergic to mulberries or figs should exercise caution before incorporating this fruit into their diet.