Passion fruit is a vine species indigenous to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is also known as granadilla or ‘Krishna Phal’ in India. The fruit was given its name in honour of the flower, which is one of the 100 different varieties of the passion flower. Passion fruit is a berry that is seedy, sweet-sour, and aromatic. It comes in a variety of colours - including purple, yellow, and golden, as well as hybrids like the Kavery.
Being a tropical plant, it requires humus-rich, pH-neutral soil that is well-drained. As a result, it is grown for profit in India’s Nilgiri Hills and northeastern states like Manipur, Mizoram, and Meghalaya. Juicy fruits have many wonderful health advantages as well. Keep on reading to know more about the benefits of passion fruit…
1. May help reduce cancer risk
Antioxidants that protect against cancer-causing free radicals are abundant in passion fruit. Additionally, it includes flavonoids, Vitamin A, and other phenolic chemicals. These might aid in preventing cancer. The flower of the plant that produces passion fruit, the passion flower, contains chrysin, a substance with anticancer properties. Another key ingredient in the fruit, piceatannol, has been shown to kill colorectal cancer cells. Vitamin C is also present in the fruit. Potent antioxidants like Vitamin C help fend off free radicals and possibly lower the risk of developing cancer.
2. Packed with antioxidants
The flavour of passion fruit is zesty with a hint of sweetness. Antioxidants included in it aid your body in eliminating dangerous free radicals. Antioxidants are essential for the health of your immune system since they keep you healthy. These, according to specialists, are in charge of maintaining healthy blood flow throughout the body, notably in the neurological system and brain and protecting the blood from potentially hazardous pollutants. Additionally, antioxidants aid in lowering stress and inflammation in the body, two factors linked to conditions like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Enhances immunity
Carotene, cryptoxanthin, and Vitamin C are elements found in passion fruit that supports a healthy immune system. White blood cell activity is also boosted by Vitamin C. This boosts immunity and provides a defence against common illnesses.
4. Rich in fibre
A great source of dietary fibre is passion fruit. Fibre is an important ingredient in every item you consume since it maintains gut health and aids in the normal operation of the digestive system. Fruits high in fibre are recommended for those with bowel issues and constipation since they aid to soften the stool and facilitate easy bowel movements.
5. Low glycemic index
This fruit from the tropics only has a 30 glycemic index (GI) rating. Passion fruit sugar is slowly taken into the bloodstream. This makes it a great fruit to maintain insulin levels in diabetes patients since there won’t be a sharp surge in blood sugar after eating it. It also reduces mood swings and the need for sugar.