In Bangladesh, summer and the monsoon mean an array of fruit, with mango, jam and jackfruit among the most important. Jackfruit is also our national fruit. It is juicy, tasty and full of nutrients, including beta-carotene, vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, potassium, magnesium and calcium.

Every 100 grams of ripe jackfruit contains 72 to 95 per cent water, 1.2 to 1.9 g protein, 16 to 25 g carbohydrate, 0.1 to 0.4 g fat, 1 to 1.5 g fibre, 175 to 540 IU vitamin A, 7 to 10 mg vitamin C, 191 to 407 mg potassium, 0.13 mg zinc, 24 µg folate (B9) and 61 µg beta-carotene.

• Jackfruit contains carotenoids, which help fight inflammation, heart disease, cancer and age-related eye problems.
• It contains antioxidants called lignans, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, breast cancer and osteoporosis.
• Flavonoids: these antioxidants fight cancer and keep the heart healthy.
• Jackfruit is a good source of fibre, so it can keep bowel movements regular and helps relieve constipation.
• Jackfruit is rich in vitamin C, which can help protect the skin from sun damage. It fights ageing and keeps the skin firm and strong.
• Jackfruit provides some protein, which can help prevent blood sugar from rising too quickly after a meal.
• Thanks to its potassium, fibre and antioxidants, jackfruit may have the potential to reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Its calcium plays a part in building bones and helps in blood clotting.
• Its iron helps overcome anaemia.
• It prevents indigestion.
• Jackfruit also plays a role in reducing anxiety.
• Jackfruit is rich in vitamin A, which helps overcome night blindness.
• Jackfruit contains both iron and magnesium, which may contribute to better sleep quality.
• Jackfruit can prevent asthma attacks.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.