Jackfruit is a type of tropical fruit originating from India. In Indonesia, jackfruit is often eaten as a snack or used as additional ingredients in various foods such as pudding or other cakes. Most people usually only eat the fruit. However, it turns out that jackfruit seeds can also be eaten, and it even has many health benefits for the body. As quoted from Livestrong, here are some nutrients contained in jackfruit seeds:

• Macronutrients
  One serving of jackfruit seeds (3.5 ounces) contains about 184 calories, 7 grams of protein, 38 grams of carbohydrates, 1.5 grams of fibre, and less than 1 gram of fat. Consuming one serving of jackfruit seeds can fulfil 6% of daily fibre needs, so it can make you feel full and also “smoothen” the digestive process. Also, nutrients in jackfruit seeds can also help reduce the risk of cholesterol, hypertension, and heart disease.
   
• Vitamins and Minerals
  Jackfruit seeds contain thiamine and riboflavin, which are included in the class of vitamin B that can help the process of energy production, while also maintain the health of our skin and eyes. Riboflavin can also act as an antioxidant that can prevent cell damage caused by free radicals.
  Jackfruit seeds also contain various kinds of minerals that are good for the body, including zinc, iron, calcium, copper, potassium, and manganese. Zinc has an important role in maintaining the immune system. Iron and copper can help the formation of red blood cells, and calcium plays a role in maintaining bone density.
   
• Antioxidants and phytochemicals
  Jackfruit seeds contain polyphenols which have antioxidant properties. Also, jackfruit seeds also contain saponins, which have anti-cancer activities and flavonoids that can reduce the risk of blood clots.
   
• Antimicrobials and other benefits
  According to articles published by Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, jackfruit seeds might contain antimicrobial compounds that can prevent bacterial contamination in food that we consumed. Also, jackfruit seeds have also been used as traditional medicines to help “smoothen” the digestive system and treat diarrhoea.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Image Google Search

Source(s):

• Live Strong - Nutrition in Boiled Jackfruit Seeds (2017). https://www.livestrong.com/article/546837-nutrition-in-boiled-jackfruit-seeds/, December 10, 2018.
• CNN Indonesia - 7 Manfaat Sehat Makan Biji Nangka (2018). https://www.cnnindonesia.com/gaya-hidup/20180710104937-255-312902/7-manfaat-sehat-makan-biji-nangka, December 10, 2018.