Many of us were enthralled with the large, spiky fruit when we were kids and we went to the market with our mother to buy fruits. That fruit is none other than the durian, known as the king of fruits. Durio zibethinus, the scientific name for durian, is a member of the Bombaceae family. It’s a seasonal, exotic tropical fruit with a distinct flavour and scent. The Malay word “Duri,” which denotes the fruit’s thorns, is the source of the English word “durian.” There are over 200 different types of durian, each with unique flavours, textures, and aromas. In Malaysia, durian is grown in great abundance.
Possible anti-oxidant application of durian
Durian’s bioactive components, which include flavonoids and polyphenols, may give it antioxidant qualities. Deactivating dangerous free radicals is one way durian might demonstrate its antioxidant potential. Atoms known as free radicals harm cells and lead to illness.1, 2 To find out if durian can assist in controlling oxidative stress in the human body, more research is necessary.
Potential use of durian for diabetes
Among tropical fruits, durian might have a lower glycemic index than other fruits. The glycemic index is a metric used to determine how much a specific food elevates blood sugar. The fibre in durian may help to lower the food’s glycemic index and may also slow down digestion and the conversion of carbs to glucose.2. To verify the impact of durian on people, more research is necessary. If you have unusually high blood sugar, you should speak with your doctor. Avoid self-medication.
Possibility of reducing cholesterol with durian
A 2007 study by Haurenkit et al. on rats suggested a potential decline in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and bad cholesterol levels.2,4 Furthermore, the synthesis of cholesterol may be inhibited by esters such as methyl propionate, ethyl propionate, and propyl propionate. It will take more research to determine how durian affects people. But, you have to routinely check your cholesterol levels and get in touch with your doctor if they are high.
Possible application of durian to cancer
Because bioactive compounds like polyphenols in durian can reduce oxidative stress, they may be helpful in the fight against cancer. These polyphenols may also stop the growth of cancer cells and eliminate them.2. According to a study by Jayakumar et al., the polyphenols in durian may have an anti-proliferative effect, or inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.5. To find out how durian affects people, more research on humans needs to be conducted. Therefore, if you are diagnosed with cancer, you should not self-medicate; instead, you should seek medical attention.
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Possible application of durian to improve digestion
It’s possible that durian contains fibres that help with healthy digestion. Because durian fibre is insoluble, it may aid in the management of diarrhoea. Furthermore, the fibre in durian may promote the release of different digestive enzymes and the peristaltic motion.1. Further research is required to determine whether durian can improve digestion. However, if you experience any symptoms of digestive disorders, you should speak with your physician.