 PERSIMMON Benefits of Persimmons
A team of researchers led by Shela Gorinstein from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, recently published data on the effects of eating persimmons on cholesterol metabolism. The experiments were carried out on rats and therefore extrapolation to humans may be difficult, but it is evident from Gorinsteins=s work that eating persimmons alters fat metabolism in rats. The rats normal (basal) diet was supplemented at a level of 7%. The diet also contained added cholesterol. The persimmon-supplemented diet significantly lessened the rise in blood plasma lipids. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and lipid peroxides were all lower in the persimmon group. These blood plasma lipids normally rise in rats fed a diet containing added cholesterol. Liver cholesterol levels were also reduced in the rats eating persimmons.
Gorinstein and her team concluded that persimmon possesses hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties that are evident when persimmon is added to the diet of rats fed cholesterol.
Persimmon pulp and peel are both good sources of fiber. This may explain, in part, the positive effect on cholesterol metabolism. Persimmons have also been shown to contain antioxidants such as carotenoids and polyphenols which may also affect fat metabolism. In addition persimmons are good source of sodium, potassium, magnesium, manganese and iron. Therefore, for many reasons, adding this colourful fruit to your diet may be a good idea.
Scientists have found that persimmon plays an important role in maintaining a healthy heart. Daily intake of one fruit may greatly reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease such as heart disease and stroke. This may attributed to the high amount of anti oxidants contained in the persimmon.
It contains twice as much fiber as that in apples. Also rich in other elements such as calcium, iron and magnesium.
Foods ‘n herb specialists reckons it: clear heat, lubricate lungs, relieve diarrhea, treat hypertension, senile asthma and cough with mucus.
Persimmon tannins have been used as folk medicine for treating stroke in Japan and as herbal medicine in China since ancient times. Also the Lowering of blood pressure.
Other health benefits of the Sharon-fruit, as a herbal medicine, is effective for recovery form intoxication. Persimmon juice lowers the density of alcohol in the blood stream and therefore alleviate hangovers.
Relieving diarrhea – Persimmon tannins calms intestinal movements. Treating bruises – Persimmon tannins effectively slows subcutaneous bleeding. When persimmon tannin is absorbed into tissues, it protects cells, it astringes tissues, and it suppresses the propagation of bacteria. They are known to protect the body from influenza by developing resistance against virus infection.
Sharon-fruit is also a good source of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is required for healthy skin and Mucus membranes, and for night vision.
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