Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, and other Asian countries near the equator are home to the most beautiful array of tropical fruits. These fruits are not only tasty and refreshing but they also contain several health benefits to the human body. Some of these fruits you might recognize easily, others may seem unfamiliar to you so let’s go through them.
- Durian
Durian is found in Southeast Asian countries including Malaysia or the Philippines and it is referred to as the “king of the fruits” by the locals. You might have not seen this, but I’m sure you’ve smelt it before because durians are known for their very distinct smell.
But on the inside, this fruit is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that protect our cells from damage. Durians include vitamins such as high potassium, iron, and vitamin B. Researchers have found that their outer spiky skin layer has antibiotic qualities. However, a downside to this fruit is that it has a lot of calories so it’s important not to have it too often.
- Dragon fruit
Dragon fruit (or otherwise known as pitaya) can be found in Thailand, Australia as well as Central America. It is made up of a pink outer skin layer while the inside of the fruit is white with little black edible seeds. They are very nutritious and are rich in antioxidants, fibres and vitamins such as vitamin C.
The antioxidants in dragon fruits are known to help reduce risk of developing diabetes and help control blood sugar levels too. Many also say that the pink skin of the dragon fruit contain organic compounds such as polyphenols that help reduce the risk of cancer.
- Coconut
Coconuts are widely known around the world in this day and age and rightfully so. Coconuts have incredible health benefits as they are very nutritious and rich in manganese which helps strengthen bones and rich in vitamins such as vitamin B.
Coconuts also do have a high fat content, so it is important to consume them occasionally. Coconut water has its own benefits as it is a great way to stay hydrated. This water contains many salts and minerals essential for the body and promotes heart health and helps clean the kidneys too. It provides quick energy which is why many athletes prefer to drink this water compared to energy drinks.
- Mangosteen
Mangosteens are native to Southeast Asia. They are purple hard fruits that you crack open to reveal a white flesh with a sweet taste and a seed inside. This fruit has been used in traditional Asian medicines to help fight infections because of its rich vitamin C content.
Mangosteens also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce any inflammation in the body. Like the other tropical fruits, this fruit also has high antioxidant properties to avoid cell damage. Mangosteens can also help control blood sugar levels although more research is required.
- Jackfruit
Jackfruits are found in India, Sri Lanka, and South Asia as well as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Brazil. They are massive fruits grown on trees and can be eaten in many ways. Science research and papers have revealed that jackfruits have antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, they are rich in potassium and help in lowering blood pressure. They are also good fruits to provide energy and help produce certain hormones as well.
Although these are only a few tropical fruits, there is more that exist with different properties and different benefits to your health.