FACTS TO KNOW ABOUT JUJUBE FRUIT-min

FACTS TO KNOW ABOUT JUJUBE FRUIT

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Fruits are an essential part of the diet due totheir nutritional value. Nutrients contained in fruits include; vitamins c and k, minerals such as manganese and potassium, and other antioxidants. These nutrients contained in fruits boost our immune system. A considerable intake of fruits lowers the chances of ailing from certain chronic diseases such as heart diseases, cancer, diabetes, and inflammation.

The jujube fruit is originallyfrom southern Asia and can also be referred to as the red or Chinese. It is round or oval in shape, small in nature, and wrinkles when ripe. Furthermore, when jujube fruit is dried, it contains more calories and concentrated sugars. There are more than 40 jujube tree varieties grown all over the world, each having different health benefits and purpose. This fruit grew popular because of the nutritional properties it contains. Nevertheless, it is packed with nutrients such as cabs, a small amount of protein and potassium, fiber, antioxidant, and vitamin C, which play various roles. When raw, jujube fruits are green; while ripe, the color changes to red-orange. Due to their sweet taste and unique aroma, jujube fruits can be consumed in different forms, as will be explained below.Discussed hereunder are the health benefits of this fruit;

Types of jujube fruits

Li, ta Jan, chico, honey jar, and lang may improve the quality of sleep and the functioning of the brain

Jujube fruits contain antioxidants responsible for reducing oxidative stress and promoting good memory. Other studies also show that it has anti-depressant agents that positively respond to stress hormones and neurotransmitters. Pharmacological studies have shown that jujube fruit contains the following flavonoids Kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside, Quercetine 3-O-robinobioside, Quercetine 3-O-rutinoside. Nevertheless, taking jujube fruit extract help to induce sleep and fight insomnia for some people. However, more research needs to be carried out to determine the curative uses of the jujube plant.

Fight cancer cells by boosting the immunity

Polysaccharides are naturally occurring sugars found in the jujube fruit containing antioxidant properties that neutralize harmful cells in the body. Moreover, the dried pulp of jujube contains unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acids.According to research, these acids have a cytotoxic effect that is helpful in the treatment of cancer. Polysaccharidesfight free radicals found in the body, reducing the chances of internal inflammation. Studies show that Vitamin C found in jujube fruits prevents attacks from various cancers such as skin cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer, just to mention a few.

Helpful in improving digestion

Nutrients such as fiber and roughages improve the digestion of food and helpprevent constipation. Constipation is a condition that affects many people within the world, about fourteen percent of the total population. The gut system is responsible for our digestive health; without fibers, we experience vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation because it can no longer fight harmful bacteria in the digestive tract. Furthermore, it contains pectin that helps to prevent diarrhea and nausea.

Excellent source of antioxidants

Antioxidants are the main attributes of jujube fruit that make it stand out and have various health benefits. Likewise, it contains Vitamin C, and a specific chemical compound known as Betulinic acid reduces oxidative stress. Due to their ability to fight off free radicals, antioxidants provide essential health benefits by preventing radicals that tend to affect the liver and cause inflammation. 

Helps maintain blood pressure at an optimum level

The fruit contains high potassium and low sodium; this property helps in vasodilation and hence keeps the blood pressure at an optimum level.

The side effects of jujube fruit

People suffering from peptic ulcers, bloating, and tooth disease should consult a health instructor before consuming jujube fruits. This is because of the high sugars and fats found in the fruits that are difficult to digest.

The uses of the jujube plant

  • The fruits can be consumed as snacks taken with coffee or given to children during play.
  • The jujube candy sold in movie theatres originally contained jujube juice.
  • It can be served as desserts (normally taken after the main meal) or processed into candies.
  • In India’s northeastern and northern parts, the fruit is eaten fresh with salt and chili.
  • Dried jujube can be used to produce juices, vinegar, and jujube marmalade (in Croatia) mixed with honey.
  • In Bangladesh, they are made into pickles (soaked in brine) and eaten as snacks.
  • In China and Korea, the fruit makes a sweetened tea syrup and a specific wine known as the hong Zao jiu.
  • In China, traditional medicine men use the jujube fruit for various reasons. The fruit, as well as its seeds, are used to alleviate oxidate stress.
  • Due to its concentration in healthy properties such as amino acids and vitamins, the jujube fruits are mixed with other traditional herbs, and the mixture is used to treat the cold and flu.

The jujube fruit is safe to eat for the majority. However, those on drugs or prolonged medication should consult a doctor before consuming the fruit or any jujube products. Studies have shown that jujube fruit interacts with these drugs and reduces their effectiveness in the body.In other cases, the fruit may exaggerate the effectiveness of the drugs and can lead to allergic reactions.

Conclusion

The jujube fruit is a worldwide delicacy known for its versatility and various benefits. This fruit might be small but very might considering its health benefits. It was first grown in southern Asia, and now it is cultivated in different parts of the world. It contains nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moreover, jujube benefits the body include; boosting immunity, its richness in antioxidants, improved sleep and brain function, and improved digestion. It is also used in making candies and served as desserts. Additional uses of the fruit include; consumption as a snack, producing juices, wine, marmalade, and vinegar. It is used in China by medicine men to treat flu and cold. If under medication, consult your doctor since the fruit reacts with certain medication.

Elena Ognivtseva
Latest posts by Elena Ognivtseva (see all)

Nutritionist, Cornell University, MS

I believe that nutrition science is a wonderful helper both for the preventive improvement of health and adjunctive therapy in treatment. My goal is to help people improve their health and well-being without torturing themselves with unnecessary dietary restrictions. I am a supporter of a healthy lifestyle – I play sports, cycle, and swim in the lake all year round. With my work, I have been featured in Vice, Country Living, Harrods magazine, Daily Telegraph, Grazia, Women's Health, and other media outlets.

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