Health Benefits of Persimmon Fruit

Persimmons are rich in antioxidants and important nutrients, such as fiber and vitamin A. They may have various possible health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health. Persimmons are orange-colored fruits known for their sweet, honey-like flavor. While hundreds of types exist, the Hachiya and Fuyu varieties are among the most popular. The heart-shaped Hachiya persimmons are astringent, meaning they are very high in plant chemicals called tannins that give the unripe fruit a dry, bitter taste. This type of persimmon needs to be fully ripe before you eat it. Fuyu persimmons also contain tannins, but they are considered non-astringent. Unlike with Hachiya persimmons, you can enjoy the crisp, tomato-shaped Fuyu variety even when they are not completely ripe. You can eat persimmons fresh, dried, or cooked. People also consume them in jellies, drinks, pies, curries, and puddings. Read on for information about the possible health and nutrition benefits of persimmons. May benefit heart health: Persimmons contain flavonoid antioxidants, including quercetin and kaempferol. Consuming persimmons and other foods containing beta-carotene may helpTrusted Source reduce the risk of heart disease. The flavonoid antioxidants in persimmons may help with: improving heart healthlowering blood pressurereducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol” Loaded with nutrients Although small in size, persimmons are packed with an impressive amount of nutrients. One Japanese persimmon weighing 168 grams (g) containsTrusted Source: 118 calories31.2 g of carbohydrates0.9 g of protein0.3 g of fat6 g of fiber2740 international units (IU) of vitamin A12.6 (milligrams) mg of vitamin C1.23 mg of vitamin E4.37 microgram (µg) of vitamin K0.16 mg of vitamin B6270 mg of potassium0.19 mg of copper0.59 mg of manganese Persimmons are also a good source of thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), folate, magnesium, and phosphorus. Persimmon leaves contain a wide array of plant compounds, including tannins, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which can positively affect your health.

May help reduce inflammation: Persimmons have properties that reduce inflammation. This means that they can help manage inflammation and lower the risk of conditions caused by inflammation, such asTrusted Source rheumatoid arthritisheart diseaseasthmainflammatory bowel disease (IBD)chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)Crohn’s diseaseulcerative colitis (UC) Persimmons also contain carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin E, all of which are potent antioxidants that fight inflammation in the body. Excellent source of powerful antioxidants: Persimmons contain carotenoid antioxidants such as beta-carotene, a pigment in many brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is turned into vitamin A by the body. Vitamin A can help with: supporting the immune systemmaintaining healthy skinimproving vision in dimly lit conditions. Encourage clear vision Persimmons may help support healthy vision: A 2019 study found that persimmon extracts lowered elevated intraocular pressure in mice. Intraocular pressure refers to fluid pressure in the eyes. Intraocular pressure is a risk factor for conditions such as glaucoma. Lowering the pressure may help reduce the likelihood of developing other eye conditions. Source of fiber: Persimmons contain fiber. Foods high in soluble fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, can helpTrusted Source: lower the risk of heart diseasereduce cholesterol levelsmanage blood sugar levels Having too much cholesterol, especially “bad” LDL cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Fiber can help lower cholesterol levels to reduce these risks. Easy to add to your diet: Because of their adaptability, persimmons are an excellent way to include more nutrients in your diet. You can enjoy the fruit as a snack or in delicious recipes. They pair excellently with both sweet and savory foods. Here are some ways to add persimmons to your diet: Slice persimmons onto a salad for a flavorful addition.Top your morning yogurt or oatmeal with fresh or cooked persimmon for a burst of natural sweetness.Roast persimmons in the oven and drizzle with honey for a tasty and healthy dessert.Mix dried or fresh persimmon into muffin, bread, or cake mix.Combine with berries and citrus fruits for a delicious fruit salad.Broil persimmons and serve with baked Brie for a tasty appetizer.Bake persimmons with chicken or meat for a unique flavor combination.Throw frozen persimmons into your favorite smoothie recipe for extra nutrients.Slice and dry persimmons in the oven to make natural fruit strips.