In school science, we were taught that eating fruits will keep us healthy. There’s a reason these lessons start that early in life. Passion fruit is one of those fruits that will help you fight many health battles.
They are tropical fruits found in many tropical climate zones globally. They have over 500 variations and come in different names. Their popularity is increasing because of the many health benefits of passion fruits.
One small passion fruit contains vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, iron, fibre, niacin, phosphorus and vitamin B6. The nutritional content in a passion fruit makes it useful in many ways.
Here are 8 nutritional benefits this fruit:
1. Diabetes
A passion fruit as a low glycemic index (GI) value. Low levels of GI value mean that its consumption does not increase blood sugar to a dangerous level and this makes it a good fruit choice for people living with diabetes. Additionally, passion fruits also improve the functioning of insulin.
2. Skin
Passion fruit contains vitamin A and C, riboflavin and carotene. All these are antioxidants which boost the skin’s health. If you want to have that skin complexion, eat passion fruits. Another benefit of passion fruits is that they delay signs of aging on your skin. If you want that glow and youthful look a little longer then you have your healthy trick.
3. Bone health
Passion fruits are rich in iron, calcium and magnesium which are important for bone strength. Despite the human body being a poor absorber of iron from the plant, passion fruits contain vitamin C which aids in the absorption of iron.
These minerals in the fruit aid in maintaining bone density which speeds up bone recovery. They also prevent osteoporosis. These minerals reduce pain and inflammation in bones due to age and activity. They also relieve some of the symptoms associated with arthritis.
4. Respiratory diseases
Passion fruit peels have high antioxidant content which makes them a good anti-inflammatory agent. Studies show that taken as a supplement, the peels have good results for asthmatic patients. They help in the reduction of coughing and wheezing.
5. Digestion
Passions fruits are rich in fibre which keeps the gut healthy. A passion fruit despite its small size will help you prevent constipation. The soluble fibre content in passion fruits helps with food digestion.
6. Heart health
As stated earlier, passion fruits contain vitamin B6 and B3 which prevents the hardening of arterial walls. Mineral content in the fruit such as potassium, copper and iron also help with blood circulation. The iron and copper aid in the production of red blood cells which then leads to oxygenated blood getting to all parts of the body.
7. Cancer
Passion fruits have a high content of antioxidants which curb free radicals. Free radicals are known for causing mutation in healthy cells into cancerous cells. This makes this fruit useful in lowering the chances of getting cancer.
8. Boost Immunity
Vitamin C and carotene, both present in passion fruit, strengthen the human body’s immunity. Eating this fruit or taking the juice will go a long way in boosting your immunity. The iron in the fruit will also increase haemoglobin in your red blood cells which is also another health benefit.
It may be a small fruit but the health benefits of a passion fruit should nudge you into having more of it in your diet. Furthermore, it is a delicious fruit.
