The Benefits Of Adding Jackfruit To Your Diet

Jackfruit has grown in popularity in recent years, especially among vegans and vegetarians. Its texture, which resembles shredded meat, allows herbivores to use the fruit as a meat substitute for pulled pork. Jackfruit is more than just a vegan substitute, however. It also contains a number of health benefits.

As a member of the Moraceae plant family, jackfruit is a tropically grown tree fruit that can weigh up to 80 pounds (via Healthline). While it has a meat-like texture, it is also sweet and fruity, although its flavor is subtle and mild. Jackfruit can be eaten raw or cooked, flavored or unflavored. No matter how you prepare it, jackfruit will absorb the flavors of the sauces, foods, and seasonings it's cooked with. In addition to vegan pulled pork, jackfruit can be used to make tacos, soup, chili, and sushi bowls. The seeds can also be used to make curry or hummus.

Jackfruit is packed full of nutrients and offers a variety of nutritional benefits. First and foremost, jackfruit can help protect against chronic disease (via Well+Good). Jackfruit is rich in powerful antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and fight off disease-carrying free radicals. It is also low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Eating jackfruit as a replacement for meat could mean reducing your risk of developing heart disease and cancer.

Jackfruit can also help improve your gut health. This is because it is rich in fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion. One serving of jackfruit contains around 3 grams of fiber, although packaged jackfruit products can contain as much as 6 grams of fiber per serving, according to Health. In addition, jackfruit can help lower or control your blood sugar. Not only is jackfruit low in carbohydrates, but it also has a low glycemic index, which means that it will not cause your blood sugar to spike.