Jackfruit: 5 Benefits & Uses

As the largest tree fruit in the world, jackfruit can reach a whopping 100 pounds. It can be eaten dried, roasted or as an ingredient in soups, jams and other dishes. Jackfruit also provides vegans and vegetarians with a meat-free pulled pork dish. Jackfruit health benefits stem from the vitamins, minerals and powerful antioxidants it contains. It's packed with magnesium, calcium, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C. Jackfruit benefits include the ability to boost bone health, improve digestion, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and even help fight cancer. The powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients in jackfruit help strengthen the immune system and prevent disease.

Jackfruit Benefits

1. Enhances Immunity and Helps Fight Cancer

As a cancer-fighting food, jackfruit health benefits include the ability to fight off free radicals. Jackfruit benefits the body by strengthening the immune system. The fruit contains antioxidant and phytonutrients that give the immune system a natural boost. Research has shown that consuming antioxidants can help give the immune system the support it needs to prevent cancer. Jackfruit benefits also include a healthy dose of immune-boosting Vitamin C. (1)

2. Boosts Magnesium Levels

Jackfruit health benefits include the ability to boost magnesium levels in the body to help prevent a deficiency. Magnesium deficiency is linked to fatigue, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, muscle cramps and osteoporosis. By boosting magnesium levels, jackfruit benefits include a reduced risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and osteoporosis. Jackfruit benefits a diabetes diet by reducing the risk of diabetes.

3. Reduces the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Thanks to the vitamins and nutrients it contains, jackfruit health benefits include a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Jackfruit contains Vitamin B6 and B12, which can help prevent heart disease. Studies have shown that supplementing with Vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid can help reduce homocysteine levels, which decreases the risk of heart disease and stroke. (2)

4. Improves Digestion

As a high-fiber food, jackfruit benefits include the ability to improve digestion. The fiber content in jackfruit helps ensure regular bowel movements. Jackfruit health benefits also include the ability to reduce constipation and other digestive issues. The fiber in the fruit works to prevent inflammation in the digestive system and prevent health problems. It can also aid in weight loss by promoting a feeling of satiety. (3)

5. Helps Prevent Osteoporosis

Jackfruit health benefits include the ability to help prevent osteoporosis. The fruit contains magnesium and calcium, both of which play an essential role in bone health. Jackfruit benefits the body by reducing the risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia, the onset of osteoporosis. One serving of jackfruit contains 6% of the recommended daily amount of calcium. Jackfruit benefits the body by providing the bones with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong.