Published By: Sayan Paul

What are the health benefits of persimmon?

Persimmon is a lesser-known fruit that is available in the warmer months.

This fruit is exceptionally delicious, and also boasts an impressive nutrition profile.

As per evidence, its regular consumption is associated with a wide range of health benefits.

Coming from the 'Ebenaceae' family, persimmon is a tropical fruit that comes in several varieties. This not-so-popular fruit has a rich, sweet, and honey-like flavor that is hard to resist. Persimmon is an excellent source of carotenoids, making the surface bright orange to yellow. Moreover, it's also packed with iron, fiber, zinc, copper, calcium, manganese, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, B-vitamins, etc., along with lots of antioxidants. Without further ado, let's have a look at the five most potential health benefits that persimmon has to offer.

It may support digestion

Persimmon contains a rich amount of dietary fiber, and a single serving provides about 20% of your daily requirements. It boosts the secretion of gastric juices, which further improves the overall functions of your digestive system. Studies have shown that people who eat this fruit regularly are at a lower risk of developing issues like gas, constipation, diarrhea, etc.

It may improve eyesight

The high amount of vitamin A present in persimmon supports the entire functioning of the cornea and conjunctival membranes, thus improving your vision significantly. It also contains lutein and zeaxanthin - which are carotenoid antioxidants that help promote eyesight. It's highly recommended for people struggling with cataracts, night blindness, and macular degeneration.

It may control diabetes

This fruit has been touted as an excellent remedy to regulate blood sugar levels for centuries. It's rich in phytochemicals that restrict the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar in the bloodstream. Also, it contains various antioxidants that fight oxidative stress, thus helping in the management of blood sugar. Simply put, it reduces your risk of developing type-2 diabetes to a great extent.

It may promote heart health

Thanks to the presence of various vitamins and minerals, persimmon helps regulate the levels of both blood pressure as well as cholesterol. Also, it's rich in flavonoids (like quercetin and kaempferol) that fight oxidative damage, thus helping your heart to work at a normal pace. Research has indicated that people who eat at least one persimmon daily are less likely to get a heart attack.

It may prevent cancer risk

Persimmon is packed with flavonoids, beta-carotene, catechins, gallocatechin, vitamin A, vitamin C, and more - which are known for their anti-cancer effects. It's also rich in several plant compounds that significantly kill cancerous cells in the body. Moreover, its high antioxidant content fights oxidative stress as well as free radical damage, thus reducing your risk of certain types of cancers.

Apart from these, persimmon may also boost immunity, support joint health, aid in metabolic activities, promote weight loss, etc.