Benefits of Pomelo
Pomelo is a citrus fruit that has a surprising number of health benefits for people who are willing to do a bit of searching for it. These impressive health benefits of pomelo include its ability to boost the immune system, improve digestion, lower blood pressure, reduce cramping, prevent anemia, improve bone strength, reduce signs of premature aging, prevent cancer, protect heart health, aid in weight loss, and boost oral and dental health.
What are Pomelo?
Pomelos are considered citrus fruits and they are closely related to grapefruits and other members of the Citrus genus. Their scientific name is Citrus maxima because they are the largest citrus fruits. The closest in size to these kinds of citrus fruits is a grapefruit. Pomelos are primarily found in Southeast Asia, which is their native region. They have not become popular in other parts of the world because they typically take 8 years to grow before the seeds can begin to flower and bear fruit. Also, much of the weight and volume of pomelos is tough and inedible, while only the inner flesh is palatable.
Their taste, however, is quite pleasant, with the consistency of grapefruits without the tart or tangy flavor. These fruits are usually pale green or yellow in color, while the edible flesh inside is pulpy and white (or, more rarely, pink or red). The history of their use dates back to at least a few hundred years, although they have likely been cultivated for far longer than that in Southeast Asian countries.
Nutritional Value of Pomelo
The reason that pomelos are popular is due to their strong nutritional value, including their vitamins, minerals, and organic content like vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin B6, and magnesium.
Health Benefits of Pomelos
The health benefits of these citrus fruits are explained below.
Prevent Cramps
Potassium is also important for the fluid balance in the body, which is a key aspect of muscle cramping and stiffness. Without proper levels of potassium, which pomelos can supply, you will likely face cramps and become susceptible to pulled muscles and torn ligaments.
Oral Health
Vitamin C is essential for producing collagen, which strengthens tissues, organs, and cells. This can boost the strength of your gums and oral surfaces to prevent them from becoming infected or weak, which can result in tooth loss and dangerous oral illnesses.
Improve Bone Health
Potassium intake has been connected to bone mineral density, as it helps to facilitate the uptake of other essential minerals for keeping the bones strong. Therefore, pomelos can aid in preventing osteoporosis and general bone weakness throughout the body.
Aid in Digestion
Most fruits contain high amounts of fiber and pomelos are no exception. One pomelo (the edible flesh only), contains about 25% of your daily requirement of fiber. This promotes healthy digestion and eliminates problems like constipation and diarrhea. High fiber content bulks up the stool, promotes smooth movement in the digestive tract, and stimulates the secretion of digestive and gastric juices to break down complex proteins which are difficult to digest. This keeps the digestive system functioning at a high level.
Weight Loss
Both grapefruits and pomelos contain a “fat-burning enzyme” that can help you reduce weight. It is called carnitine palmitoyl-transferase and is not found in many foods. However, it can boost your battle against the bulge; so many dieters choose to include pomelo in their foods.
Boost Immunity
Although a single serving is less than an entire fruit, considering how large they are, it isn’t a terrible idea to eat the entire fruit, considering that each fruit contains approximately 600% of your daily vitamin C requirement. This major source of ascorbic acid has been used for generations in Southeast Asia as a quick immune system booster. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant to increase white blood cell activity and attack free radicals, which can damage the organs of the body. It helps to fight off infections that lead to colds, coughs, fevers, and serious symptoms or microbial, viral, and bacterial infections.
