FOOD & HEALTH

Photo Credits- Robin Stickel

HEALTH BENEFITS OF JACKFRUIT

B y S u n i l M a l h o t r a S t o c k I m a g e s

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit in Asia, Africa and South America. Jackfruit is a member of the Mulberry family. 1. Prevents Diabetes Jackfruit contains substances that reduce blood sugar levels and are found to improve glucose tolerance as also the chemicals present in jackfruit leaves prevent diabetic complications. As per preliminary evidence, jackfruit leaves help stabilise blood sugar levels and hence control diabetes.

2. Aids Digestion Due to the high amounts of soluble and insoluble fibre present in jackfruit, it helps with digestion. The fibre present is essential for the prevention of constipation. The ability to absorb water may also help prevent cholesterol absorption and fat build-up in the digestive system. Research has proved that jackfruit aids in digestion. 3. Supports Bone Health The intake of jackfruit regularly protects bones from breaking down as such it relieves osteoporosis, arthritis and many other bone conditions. Jackfruit contains magnesium and calcium which are important for good bone health. Jackfruit increases bone density by reducing calcium loss with potassium therefore existing bones are less prone to problems. Jackfruit is also rich in manganese, copper, zinc and phosphorus which are crucial for bone health. 4. Provides Instant Energy The body easily absorbs the simple sugars present in jackfruit. For instant energy, postworkout, it is an ideal snack. 5. Regulates Blood Pressure The negative impact of sodium is lessened by the significant amount of potassium present in jackfruit resulting in reduced hypertension. 6. Good For Hair The seeds present in jackfruit are rich in minerals and vitamins that help keep your scalp healthy. Soak the seeds overnight, and grind them into a paste with water in the morning. Apply on your scalp, let it sit for an hour, and then wash it off. 7. Cures Anaemia Jackfruit is known to contain many essential minerals and vitamins such as A, C, and E, in addition to magnesium, manganese and

copper which are found to be beneficial for the production of blood.Including jackfruit in your daily diet helps prevent Iron deficiency which is a major cause of anemia. 8. Prevents Cancer It helps in the treatment of cancer due to its antioxidant-rich properties. Tannins, saponins, and flavonoids present are heavily beneficial constituents of jackfruit. The prevention of the growth of tumor cells, to fight oxidative stress is helped by these compounds to remove free radicals. Seed flour has been found to have anti-cancer effects. 9. Helps Improve Vision As per studies, jackfruit contains betacarotene and various nutrients that provenly support eye health and are essential for vision. Beta-carotene gets converted to Vitamin A. The role of jackfruit in the normal functioning of the cornea and conjunctival membranes is most necessary for good eyesight. Jackfruit also contains Zeaxanthin, Lutein and Carotenoids that don ’t get synthesised by the body. These nutrients help filter harmful light and help protect healthy cells in the retina. 10. Prevents Cardiovascular Diseases Cardiovascular diseases are prevented by the intake of jackfruit as per studies. It promotes heart health as it is known to be high in antioxidants and fibre. The negative impact of sodium levels is reduced by the potassium present in jackfruit resulting in the prevention of artery damage. They are an excellent source of Vitamin B6 which is necessary for heart health. Jackfruit is rich in resveratrol which is instrumental in providing cardiovascular support and can help treat cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and ischemia.

WHAT TO AVOID EATING WITH HIGH CHOLESTEROL

B y S u n i l M a l h o t r a S t o c k I m a g e s

Let’ s first try and understand what cholesterol is. It is a fatty, waxy substance found in your blood. Cholesterol is mainly of two types: GOOD CHOLESTEROL (HDL i.e. High–Density Lipoprotein) and (LDL I.e. Low-Density Lipoprotein). Another type of fat found in the blood is Triglycerides, which increases the risk of heart disease. To reduce your levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides you must follow a healthy eating pattern. We give you here some foods to avoid:

Red Meat Meats like beef roast, pork chops, ribs steak and ground beef tend to have more saturated fat and cholesterol content. You should focus mainly on lower-fat animal protein, such as baked skinless or lean white meat.

Processed Meat Because of the high sodium content and low nutrition you should generally avoid processed meats. If you want to go for processed meat then choose from minimally processed meat that too should be preferably white.

Full-fat Dairy Saturated fat is found in abundance in dairy products like butter, cheese, full-fat yoghurt and whole milk too. Cheese also is known to be high in sodium. Try and drink skimmed milk, limit your intake of cheese and look for low or non-fat yoghurt. Instead of butter use extravirgin oil.

Baked Foods and Sweets Due to the butter or shortening present in cookies, doughnuts and cakes they are carriers of the high level of cholesterol and saturated fats. Also, they contain a higher quantity of sugar, which leads to higher levels of blood triglycerides which can be a great risk for coronary heart disease. Preferably make your desserts at home, thereby. cutting the amounts of butter and sugar.

Fried Foods Another unhealthy food is the oil you fry your chicken or French fries in has a high percentage of cholesterol and unsaturated fats. Avoid fried foods and better go for baked potatoes or fries.

Salt Your blood pressure can shoot up if your intake of sodium is high. Avoid having too much salt in your food and even otherwise.

There are several other foods too that are unhealthy for you, so kindly take ample care of your diet for a healthy life.