Kiwano the super fruit
- Dietitian.Lauren Hmede
- Jan 17, 2019
- 2 min read
Kiwano and health:
Kiwano melon is an exotic, peculiar-looking fruit from the central and southern regions of Africa. It’s formally known as Cucumis metuliferus but informally also goes by horned melon and African horned cucumber. When ripe, the thick outer skin of a kiwano melon is bright orange and covered in small spiny projections or horns.
The inner flesh consists of a gelatinous, lime-green or yellow substance that houses a multitude of edible seeds.
Though kiwano melon isn’t a fruit you’re likely to find in an average fruit basket, including it in your diet may be good for your health. It contains many vitamins and minerals that are essential to optimal health.
It is low in calories but high in protein.
In addition its seeds contain several antioxidants, including zinc, lutein, and vitamins A, C, E. It contains iron which promote proper production of haemoglobin in red blood cells, which is necessary for oxygen transport.Considering its glycaemic index, it is low and it is proper for sugar and insulin regulation and can be consumed by diabetic patients.
· It contains minerals that produce neurotransmitters that are essential for mood regulation.
· Other health benefits like bone remodelling as it is rich in zinc, magnesium, vitamin C.
· It support collagen production and wound healing due to its water content and vitamin C
· It is good for heart due to magnesium and potassium content and as a result it reduces inflammation and plaque formation.
· It strengthen immunity as it is rich in magnesium, zinc, iron and vitamin C
How to eat it:
The simplest way to eat kiwano is to slice it open and spoon out the pulp. It can also be used in smoothies or on top of yogurt, cereal, or ice cream.
Sources:
Comments