RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Persimmon is a round fruit with a thin, edible skin. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, and its varieties differ in size, shape, and flavor. Generally, persimmons have bright orange or yellow skin with sweet, soft flesh.
Beyond their delicious taste, these unique fruits—originally from Japan and China—offer numerous health benefits to their rich vitamin and mineral content.
So, what are the health benefits of persimmons, and why should you include them in your diet?
Nutritional Content of Persimmons
The persimmon tree (Diospyros kaki) is native to East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea. The tree can grow up to 10–20 meters (33–66 feet) tall and is recognized by its broad leaves and bright orange fruit when ripe.
In Indonesia, persimmons grow well in subtropical and tropical highland regions, including parts of East Java and North Sumatra.
According to Halodoc.com, persimmons are packed with vitamins and minerals that provide the following health benefits:
1. May Boost the Immune System
According to the journal Influence of Vitamin C on Lymphocytes: An Overview published in Antioxidants, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) helps strengthen the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells.
These cells form the body's primary defense against disease-causing pathogens and toxins.
2. Supports Heart Health
The dietary fiber in persimmons contributes to heart health by helping reduce cholesterol levels. Fiber binds to cholesterol and fats in the digestive tract, helping remove them from the body before they accumulate in the bloodstream.
In addition, the potassium found in persimmons may help lower blood pressure.
Their vitamin C and folate content also act as antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
3. Promotes Healthy Vision
One of the best-known benefits of persimmons is their ability to support eye health.
This benefit comes from their high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoid antioxidants that accumulate in the retina.
These antioxidants help protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration. Meanwhile, vitamins C and E help protect eye tissues from damage caused by free radicals.
4. Supports Brain Health
Persimmons contain more than one type of antioxidant. In addition to lutein and zeaxanthin, they also provide fisetin, a plant compound associated with brain health.
Research suggests that fisetin may:
- Improve long-term memory.
- Help protect nerve cells from damage.
- Slow age-related cognitive decline.
- Reduce brain damage following ischemic stroke.
- Increase serotonin levels, which may contribute to improved mood and antidepressant effects.
5. May Help Reduce the Risk of Colorectal Cancer
Research suggests that orange and yellow fruits such as persimmons may help lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
Their vibrant color comes from beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that may help inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Although these findings are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm these potential benefits.
6. May Help Prevent Osteoporosis
Preventing osteoporosis involves more than just getting enough calcium from dairy products. Fruits such as persimmons may also support bone health.
This benefit is attributed to their polysaccharide content, which may help inhibit the genetic activity of osteoclasts - the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue.
As a result, persimmons may help maintain stronger, healthier bones.
7. May Help Prevent Obesity
Persimmons possess anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes.
These effects are partly due to their vitamin C content, which helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
In addition, persimmons are naturally rich in dietary fiber, which promotes fullness, supports healthy digestion, and may help reduce overall calorie intake, making them a nutritious choice for weight management as part of a balanced diet.
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