The Superfood with a Bad Rep
I absolutely love durian for its rich, creamy flavor and sweet aroma. As someone who eats it regularly, I’ve become desensitized to its pungent smell that some find overpowering. But I’ve seen hilarious reactions to durian first-timers online, from people struggling to swallow their first taste to pets fainting just from a whiff! While durian has earned an infamous reputation in the West, this exotic Southeast Asian fruit offers some impressive health benefits for those willing to try it. Let’s explore why durian is known as the “king of fruits” and a superfood.
Boosts Immunity
Durian contains high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese that help strengthen your immune system. With about 46% of your recommended daily vitamin C in just one cup, it provides antioxidant power to help fight illness. Other minerals like manganese, copper, iron and magnesium support proper immune function as well. Enjoying the king regularly may help prevent colds.
Improves Digestion
Around 9 grams of dietary fiber in a cup of durian promotes healthy digestion and regularity. Its fiber feeds good gut bacteria as a prebiotic. With better gut flora, your digestion operates smoothly. Fiber makes you feel fuller for potential weight management perks.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Despite its sweetness, durian’s fiber slows absorption of its sugars. This prevents spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. Studies show durian may lower insulin resistance too, improving your body’s ability to manage sugars. That’s beneficial for diabetes prevention.
Supports Heart Health
The fiber in durian binds to cholesterol so your body excretes it before it reaches your bloodstream and arteries. Potassium helps lower blood pressure as well, for a healthier heart. Other nutrients like folate, B vitamins, vitamin C, and magnesium promote proper cardiac function too.
Beyond its nutritional prowess, durian offers an intensely pleasurable eating experience for those who acquire a taste for it. Some describe its flavor as a blend of honeyed almonds and rich custard. While newcomers may be taken aback by its unfamiliar aroma, I find it incredibly inviting. To me, durian’s smell signals the delight of its luscious flavor soon to come. Its creamy, custardy texture is distinct from any other fruit. For these reasons and more, durian has earned its nickname as the king of fruits in Southeast Asia.
So while durian may be revered by some and reviled by others, there are some legitimate health perks to be had from this king of fruits if you can withstand its notorious nature. Fortunately for durian lovers like myself, after eating it often you become desensitized to the smell. But be sure to have breath mints on hand if you’re eating it around others!
