Jackfruit isn't just a meat substitute anymore; can reduce cholesterol too

The humble jackfruit, lavishly available in Kerala backyards, attained VIP status when various scientific studies highlighted its incredible nutritional qualities. In many parts of the world, it is already used as a meat substitute. A recent study conducted by researchers at Alappuzha Medical College found that jackfruit can also effectively reduce high blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood, as well as regulate blood sugar levels. The study was conducted using unripe yet mature jackfruit in 100 diabetic patients for three months. 

The bulbs of mature jackfruit grown at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Krishnapuram, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, were dried in the sun and powdered for use in the study. 50 diabetic patients who participated in the study were given dishes prepared with jackfruit powder, while the rest were advised to eat regular breakfast items. Long-term diabetic patients interested in participating in the study were included in the study. When participants' pre- and post-breakfast blood sugar levels were measured after three weeks, and then after three months, it was observed that the blood sugar levels of those who had jackfruit dishes decreased significantly. 

Jackfruit is rich in fibres that help in regulating the blood sugar level. The study report was published in the Current Nutrition and Food Science, an international medical journal. The research team was headed by Dr B. Padmakumar, former principal of the medical college, while Dr Bino David, Dr GK Libu, Dr S. Govind and Dr Abhish B Mohan were the team members.

What is jackfruit powder?
It is a flour produced from unripe, dried, mature jackfruit bulbs. It is gluten-free, has a low glycemic index, helps manage blood sugar, aids digestion, and even helps prevent fatty liver. According to the Cleveland Clinic's dietitian, Gillian Culbertson, a 100-gram portion of jackfruit contains 3 grams of fibre, 95 calories, 2 grams of protein, vitamin C, vitamins B6, B3, B2, and B9, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. On the health portal, the expert says the fruit can be included in a heart-healthy diet thanks to its potassium, antioxidants, and fibre content. It can even help with healing wounds due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties.