Who knows how many foods we have not heard of in the world. Since we are geographically far from the equatorial region, exotic fruits are a bit foreign to us.
One of these exotic fruits is another one with a strange name: kivano fruit...
strangeness of the name horned melon also called. The fruit of the melon genus has spines similar to horns on its shell. It grows in the central and southern regions of Africa.
The look and taste of the interior to cucumber similar. If it is not fully ripe, it tastes like a banana.
When ripe kivano melonIts thick outer bark turns bright orange. It is covered with small spiny protrusions, namely horns. The inner flesh consists of a gelatinous, lime green or yellow substance.
Kiwano It is not a fruit that we can find in the greengrocer or market. But it stands out for its benefits and nutritional value and is definitely worth getting to know.
What is Kiwano (horned melon)?
Kiwano (Cucumis melanogaster) is a fruit native to South Africa. Kiwi Since it has a similar consistency and appearance with Kiwano got its name.
It has no biological connection with kiwi. The fruit is widely grown in Africa, Australia, New Zealand and parts of Asia.
What is the nutritional value of kiwano?
Kiwanocontains many vitamins and minerals. A kivano melon (209 grams) has the following nutrient content:
Calories: 92
Carbs: 16 grams
Protein: 3.7 grams
Fat: 2,6 grams
Vitamin C: 18% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Kiwano consists mostly of water. It is low in calories, carbohydrates and fat. It has a high protein value compared to other fruits.
What Are the Benefits of Kivano Fruit?
Antioxidant content
KiwanoContains powerful antioxidants.
Antioxidants protect against cellular damage caused by oxidative stress in the body.
Oxidative stress is a normal part of human metabolism. But if it gets too much, it causes inflammation and deterioration in cellular functions over time.
This damage to the body kiwano fruit It can be minimized by consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as
Kiwi melonThe main antioxidants inC vitamin,Vitamin Ais zinc and lutein.
These nutrients play a role in reducing inflammation and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Red blood cells store an iron-containing substance called hemoglobin, which is used to transport oxygen throughout the body.
Therefore, the body needs enough iron to take in oxygen and produce healthy red blood cells.
Kiwano melon Iron from plant sources, such as iron, is not absorbed as effectively as from animal sources. However, taking iron with vitamin C increases its absorption rate.
kiwano fruitprovides significant amounts of vitamin C. That is, it increases the absorption of iron. This, in turn, supports red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
Balancing blood sugar
Kiwanohas a low glycemic index. In other words, it does not cause a significant rise in blood sugar after eating.
a richmagnesium It plays a direct role in glucose (sugar) and insulin metabolism.
When you think of hydration, the first thing that comes to mind is water. But to maintain healthy fluid status, electrolytes –potassiumMinerals - such as magnesium and sodium - are also required.
KiwanoIt consists of about 88% water. It contains carbohydrates and electrolytes.
This is also beneficial for your hydration.
mood effect
Kiwano Cantaloupe contains magnesium and zinc. These two minerals closely affect mental health and brain function.
Both magnesium and zinc are involved in producing neurotransmitters that affect mood.
Eye health
Kiwano melonIt contains a significant amount of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a vitamin that strengthens eye health.
Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant for the eye. Macular degenerationEliminates free radicals that can cause
It prevents and slows the development of cataracts.
cognitive health
Although different foods affect the brain positively, Vitamin E Slows the onset of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
kiwano fruitThere are variations of tocopherol with high levels of vitamin E.
These keep the mind healthy.
Effect on metabolism
Zinc It is an essential mineral in metabolism, wound healing, repair of organs, tissues, blood vessels and cells.
Kiwano melonZinc is effective in the production of collagen along with high vitamin C.
slowing down aging
kiwano fruitmaintains skin integrity.
Reduces age spots and wrinkles.
It keeps the body young.
strengthening bones
Kiwano melon a mineral that increases bone strength and prevents the onset of osteoporosis calcium It contains.
like zinc kiwano melonAlong with calcium, the other minerals in it are important for bone development, growth, repair and integrity.
Help weight loss
More than 80% of this fruit is water.
It contributes to the weight loss process with its satiety feature.
Kiwano melon It is a rich source of magnesium and potassium.
These minerals reduce inflammation, prevent arterial plaque buildup, and help regulate blood pressure.
boosting immunity
Kiwano melonu It contains a lot of nutrients vital for a healthy immune system, such as vitamin C, zinc, iron and magnesium.
How to eat horned melon?
The outer skin is thick and covered with small spines, and the fruit is dark green before ripening. But as it matures, it takes on a creamy orange hue.
Although the rind is edible, the flesh is generally preferred. The taste is soft and light.
Horned melon fruitThe simplest way to eat chicken is to open it, slice it, and spoon directly into the meat.
It can also be eaten by adding salt or sugar to add flavor. The fruit can be eaten fresh or cooked.
Is Kiwano Fruit Harmful?
Kiwano Although beneficial, avoid consuming too much (3-4 per day).
Some people may develop an allergic reaction due to the nutrients in it.
unripe kiwanomay have a toxic effect. It can cause headaches, stomach problems, and fever.
