Benefits of Jackfruit Seeds: Why Should You Add Jackfruit Seeds to Your Diet?

Humans love their food, and that is why the present world cuisine is so varied and rich, but most of the cuisine we have on a daily basis is deprived of the nutrients and protein that our body needs to function for long. Though the food we eat on a daily basis is an entirely personal choice, you can’t ignore the fact that including foods that are high in fiber and rich in protein is crucial.

​There is a common misconception amongst people that the only source of protein available to us is either egg or meat, but this is not true. Our Earth is capable of producing a rich variety of vegetables and fruits that aid us by supplying enough nutrients, protein, and fiber, and amongst many, jackfruit is one rich source of all these.

​Native to many parts of Asia, jackfruit is consumed both as a vegetable and a fruit in both raw and ripe form. Known to be the largest fruit in the world, even the seeds of jackfruit are known to have high levels of protein, fiber, and nutrients, something that the human body is always in need of. If you are thinking of incorporating something that contains everything, jackfruit seeds are your option. Considering this, let's explore the benefits of jackfruit seeds and other details.

​Origin of Jackfruit

​As for jackfruit, let’s first explore the origin, which found its way to many regions of Asia and became famous because of its sweet taste and diverse health benefits. Initially, the seeds were not considered to be an edible item and were often discarded, but slowly, people discovered their edibility and started consuming them.

​Just like jackfruit in its whole, even the seeds possess essential minerals like iron, copper, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and others. They are known to contain elements that have antibacterial properties and help with a lot of diseases caused by bacteria.

​When it was discovered that jackfruit seeds can be consumed as well, it also started getting used in making medicines, and it was observed that it can help with certain health benefits like digestion and anemia. However, more research is required to support these claims.

Nutritional Values Contained by Jackfruit Seeds

​Let’s understand better the nutritional values contained in jackfruit seeds through the table shared below. The table shows the value of jackfruit seeds based on 1-ounce serving.

Calories	53
Carbs	11 grams
Fat	0
Fiber	0.5 Grams
Protein	2 Grams
Thiamine	7% of RDI
Phosphorus	4% of RDI
Riboflavin	8% of RDI
Magnesium	5% RDI

*RDI here stands for Reference Daily Intake.

​Benefits of Jackfruit Seeds

​There have obviously been benefits of jackfruit seeds that even our ancestors saw, and that is why it has been an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, as there have been proven medical benefits of jackfruit seeds, and it was consumed to aid many health issues. Let’s now explore all the possible benefits associated with jackfruit seeds that you too can take advantage of by adding them to your daily diet.

​Improves Digestion

​Certain studies that were done in the past show that consuming jackfruit seeds daily can help with digestion. Like the majority of seeds, jackfruit seeds also contain soluble and insoluble fiber that passes through the gastrointestinal tract. These fibers are not broken by the enzymes present in our body, and that is why they help us by normalizing our bowel movements and increasing the stool bulk, making it softer and helping it pass frequently.

​Just to add on to your knowledge, fiber is a prebiotic and helps increase the beneficial bacteria present in the gut, supports healthy digestion, reduces constipation, and protects against inflammatory bowel diseases.

​Increases Hemoglobin

​Jackfruit seeds contain a great concentration of iron, which is enough for your daily intake. Iron is the most important component of making hemoglobin in your body, and if you are dealing with even mild anemia, consuming jackfruit seeds is extremely beneficial, as it can also fight off other blood-related issues and disorders.

​The iron present in the seeds also boosts the immunity and increases the production of red blood cells.

Prevent Foodborne Diseases

​As already mentioned earlier, jackfruit seeds were widely used in the making of traditional Chinese medicine because, in many cases, they aided the symptoms of diarrhea. There have been studies that talk in favour of jackfruit seeds containing antibacterial properties, and a few even state that the seeds are covered in particles that function as the antibacterial agents. By putting these seeds to the test against the bacteria, E.Coli, it was found that they can be put to use to make treatments to fight against foodborne diseases.

​Though supported by certain claims, more detailed research and investigations are required to back the claim and the effectiveness of antibacterial properties in jackfruit seeds.

​Reduces Cholesterol Levels

​Consuming jackfruit seeds can help improve the blood cholesterol level, as shown by some research and studies. This is possible because of the high content of fiber and antioxidants present in the jackfruit seeds. Our body also contains bad cholesterol, and if it increases, it can trigger high blood pressure, increase the risk of heart-related diseases, and result in diabetes. The presence of good cholesterol levels has an adverse impact and helps in protecting the heart from the bad effects of it.

As shown by some studies, it is believed that consuming jackfruit seeds can lower the bad cholesterol level while increasing the good cholesterol levels. Again, more studies are required to prove this claim.

​Boosts Immunity

​Jackfruit seeds contain anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and nutrients, including Vitamin A and C, which help against infection and become a protective shield by making the immune system stronger. Jackfruit seeds contain jacalin, which is a form of protein and has been proven scientifically to strengthen the immune system against the HIV virus strain. However, more research is underway to back this claim.

​Improves Skin and Hair

​Jackfruit seeds are also rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, and as they grow in a protected environment, untouched from the sunrays, there are benefits of jackfruit seeds for skin and hair. These seeds protect them from any damage that is precisely caused by the sunrays, like aging, wrinkles, dark circles, fine lines, and others. It further helps in forming collagen in the body that fights against diverse skin issues like pimples, acne, and infection, and results in glowing skin.

​As jackfruit seeds also contain anti-microbial compounds, they also battle against the various hair and scalp infections by aiding the hair follicles and supplying them with essential nutrients. By improving the blood circulation and nourishing the hair from the roots, it also keeps the hair from damage and severe hair fall.​

Contains Anti-Cancer Properties

​Based on some studies done, it is suggested that the jackfruit seeds may possess anti-cancer properties due to the presence of antioxidants and plant compounds, precisely phenols, saponins, and flavonoids. Various studies have shown that these plant compounds help in fighting inflammation and repairing damaged DNA. One study shows that the jackfruit seed extract can help reduce the formation of cancer blood vessels by about 61%.

​However, as the research is limited, maybe future research and studies will show confirmed results.

​Improves Vision

​The same is mentioned a few times earlier here as well that jackfruit seeds contain Vitamin A, which is regarded as one of the most healthy nutrients. When you consume Vitamin A on a daily basis, it will affect your vision and eye health, and if you are already dealing with vision issues, it will definitely help cure that. It has been greatly effective for people who are dealing with xeropthalmia and night blindness.

Also, keep a note that all the jackfruit seeds' benefits are still under the research phase, and these are results of a few studies that have been done in the past. They may not be equally beneficial for every individual in the same manner.​

Possible Side Effects of Consuming Jackfruit Seeds

​Now that you are aware of the various benefits of consuming jackfruit seeds on a daily basis, you should also know about the possible jackfruit side effects it can cause. As every individual acts and reacts differently to different things, the same can happen with jackfruit seeds. To not compromise with your health severely, here is the list of the side effects you must know:

​Can Disrupt Protein Digestion

​Jackfruit seeds are known to contain high amounts of anti-nutrients like trypsin and tannin inhibitors, which can hinder the process of absorption and digestion of essential nutrients. Trypsin inhibitors are proteins that are found in foods like papaya seeds and soybeans, whereas tannin inhibitors are a type of polyphenol found in plant-based foods.

​Trypsin disrupts protein digestion, making it harder for the body to break down food, which is essential for digestion. Tannins can mix with minerals like iron and zinc to form an insoluble complex that slows down the body’s ability to absorb these essential minerals. To avoid this issue from happening, it is best advised to consume jackfruit seeds after cooking, roasting, or boiling them and never in raw form.

​Can Increase the Risk of Bleeding

​Not every food can be taken without any precaution, and the same applies to the consumption of the jackfruit seeds, especially when you are on any type of medication that can increase the risk of bleeding. Studies have shown that jackfruit seeds extract slows down the blood clotting process and even prevents the formation of blood clots in humans.

​If you are under any such medication for blood-thinning, avoid the consumption of jackfruit seeds completely. Some of the medications with which you shouldn’t be eating jackfruit seeds are antiplatelet drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, and anticoagulants.

​Can Clash with Blood-Sugar-Lowering Medicines

​Jackfruit seeds are said to have blood sugar-lowering properties, which is extremely beneficial for people dealing with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. The same can be dangerous when consumed with blood sugar-lowering medicine, as when both are eaten together, even on different hours, but on the same day, can lower the sugar level more than required, leading to hypoglycemia, and you may feel dizziness, shakiness, sweating, irritability, and even fainting.

Alongside, jackfruit seeds also contain complex carbohydrates which break down the sugar, but slowly, making it another reason to consume jackfruit seeds for people working with managing diabetes and keeping the level lower.

​How to Consume Jackfruit Seeds for Maximum Benefits?

​To leverage the advantages of consuming jackfruit seeds, always eat them after cooking, boiling, or roasting them. You can even bake them in the microwave, but eating them raw is a big no. When you cook them, you are eliminating the anti-nutrients present in them, which does more harm to your health and gut, so it is good to eliminate them before consuming. 

​Final Words

​There are many health benefits of jackfruit seeds, but their consumption shouldn’t be taken lightly, and you must know your health better before you include them in your daily diet. Also, ensure that you stop it immediately if you notice any side effects or allergies developing. For the most part, jackfruit seeds are safe to consume, but with certain concerns.​

FAQs

​Are jackfruit seeds good for you?

Yes, in general, consuming jackfruit seeds is good for health as it contains essential nutrients, vitamins, fiber, and minerals that help with improving digestion, boosting immunity, and preventing anemia.​

What are the side effects of jackfruit seeds?

The most common side effects associated with jackfruit seeds are slowing down the blood clotting when taken with certain medications, disrupting protein digestion, and the development of certain allergies.

​How many jackfruit seeds can I eat a day?

There is no certain limit to how many jackfruit seeds you can consume per day, but take in small amounts to leverage the health benefits and not end up developing side effects.

​Is jackfruit seed good for the kidneys?

Nothing about whether it is good for the kidneys or not is available, but it can be dangerous to consume jackfruit seeds if you are suffering from kidney-related diseases, as they are high in potassium.

​How to consume jackfruit seeds?

Never consume jackfruit seeds in raw form. Always boil them, roast them, or cook them for about 20 minutes before consumption.​

What to avoid after eating jackfruit?

You must avoid eating anything that can hinder the process of digestion when eaten in combination, like dairy products, papaya, honey, seafood, spicy food, and soft drinks.

​Is jackfruit safe for pregnant women?

Yes, jackfruit is considered safe for consumption for pregnant women if consumed in moderation, but it must be consulted with the doctor, as in some cases, it may not be favourable.

​Does jackfruit seed increase blood sugar?

No, consuming jackfruit seeds doesn't increase the blood sugar; rather, they have properties that lower the blood sugar level and therefore, are advised not to consume with blood sugar-lowering medicines.​

Is jackfruit seed a protein or a carb?

Jackfruit seeds contain both protein and carbs along with fiber, vitamins, and other minerals.

Are jackfruit seeds good for your skin?

As jackfruit seeds contain antioxidant properties and Vitamin C, it is great for skin and works fighting against ageing, wrinkles, and dark circles, and makes the skin glow.