Durian is one of the fruits people know today. It is the fruit of the tree species of the genus Durio and the name durian is obtained from the Malay-Indonesian language term for duri or spike. Having some similarities with jackfruit, the following are the health benefits of durina, along with a sample recipe.
Health Benefits
Digestive Health
One health benefit of durian is he promotion of digestive health. According to Digestive Aid, it is possible with dietary fiber; a substance that acts as a sweep to help the body get rid of unwanted agents like toxins and free radicals, which cause cancer. Also, fiber adds roughage or bulk to the stools, facilitating easier defecation; this way, it prevents digestive problems like constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, excess flatulence, bloating, heartburn, and indigestion, not to mention that colorectal cancer is also in the list. As per the publication, much of the fiber contains insoluble fiber, which also reduces the number of loose bowel movements with people with diarrhea.
Energy
Another health benefit of durian is energy – from carbohydrates and calories. According to Life Hack, a serving of the fruit contains 243 grams and covers about 20 percent of a person’s daily carbohydrate needs. Carbohydrates serve as fuel for the body, enabling it to function well throughout the day. Meanwhile, one serving of durian contains 350 calories and 13 grams of fat. As per the publication, the aforementioned fat is a good type of fat for the body. But then, since the fruit offers carbohydrates and fats, it is also important to take note that macronutrients and calories promotes weight gain, which may not be liked by those who are on a weight loss diet.
Immunity
Durian also helps boost the body’s immune system function. According to Wiki Fitness, durian contains vitamin C, a mineral that raises the body’s immunity against infection and illness. Vitamin C also promotes the function of collagen, a substance that acts as cement to connect loosely bound cells and tissues. Thus, it helps prevent or delay signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. In addition, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, just like vitamin A and vitamin E, protecting the body from free radicals that are linked to diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Sample Recipe
One recipe that has durian as its ingredients is Durian Puree Cheesecake. According to All Recipes, the ingredients include pureed fresh durian, eggs, sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, durian or banana extract, and graham cracker crust.
To prepare, as per the publication, the oven is preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (170 degrees Celsius). Then, a durian fruit is cut into husk and one segment of the pulpy inner flesh is removed and placed in a bowl; a fork is used to mash the flesh and one-fourth of the cup is reserve. Once done, the cream cheese is beaten until fluffy and condensed milk is added and beating is continued until smooth. After that, the pureed durian, sour cream, durian or banana extract, egg, and vanilla extract are beaten in. Then, the batter is poured into prepared graham cracker crust. Finally, the cake is baked for an hour or until filling is set and the edges are lightly brown. The dish is served warm or chilled overnight in the refrigerator.
Durian is considered nutritious, with its many health benefits. Thus, it can be added to different meal menus for families and friends.
