What Are the Benefits of Persimmon?
The name “persimmon” translates from Greek as “food of the gods,” and indeed, this fruit ranks among the top foods for thyroid health. Its iodine-rich content makes persimmon a great year-round addition to your diet.
The key value of persimmon lies in its high antioxidant content. One of the most notable antioxidants in persimmon is beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Persimmon contains more beta-carotene than carrots, peppers, or pumpkin. Eating around 150 grams of persimmon provides approximately 20% of the recommended daily intake of this nutrient, which plays a crucial role in cell renewal, fights free radicals, protects cells from damage, and slows down aging processes.
Additionally, persimmon is valued for its high vitamin C content. Combined with B vitamins, vitamin C boosts the immune system, increasing resistance to viral and bacterial infections. The combination of vitamin C and vitamin P (also present in persimmon) strengthens blood vessels, improving blood flow and serving as a preventive measure against atherosclerosis. Therefore, persimmon is highly recommended for people at risk of cardiovascular disease.
Persimmon also contains a variety of essential minerals.
- Potassium helps remove excess water from the body, which can benefit those with high blood pressure.
- Magnesium supports the heart muscle, improves nervous system function, and promotes the absorption of other nutrients. It also helps eliminate sodium, reducing the likelihood of kidney stones.
Are There Risks and Side Effects of Eating Persimmon?
Persimmon contains 18.5 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, with about 25% of these carbohydrates being glucose and fructose. Although the fruit has a low glycemic index, thanks to its high tannin content (which slows the absorption of carbohydrates), some people should consume it with caution.
Who Should Avoid Excess Persimmon Consumption?
- Gastrointestinal issues: People with chronic digestive conditions should avoid persimmon during flare-ups, as it can have a diuretic effect.
- Kidney stone risk: Due to its diuretic properties, persimmon may not be suitable for those prone to kidney stones.
- Diabetics: While not strictly forbidden for people with diabetes, persimmon should be eaten in moderation—around 50–100 grams per day (about half a fruit). Always consult with a doctor beforehand and monitor blood glucose levels with a glucometer after eating.
- Less ripe persimmons are recommended for diabetics since they contain more tannins, resulting in slower glucose absorption and lower sugar content overall, which can also aid in weight management.
It’s also essential to note that the soluble tannins in persimmon can interact with stomach acid and form phytobezoars—indigestible masses that may obstruct food passage, causing nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Can You Eat Persimmon Every Day?
While it’s safe to enjoy fresh persimmon regularly, it’s important to remember that the daily limit for fructose is 10-20 grams. Since persimmon contains 33.5 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, about 95% of its calories come from sugar, providing 134 calories per 100 grams.
To avoid excessive glucose intake, which could increase insulin levels and promote fat storage, it’s best to consume no more than 1–2 medium-sized fruits per day.
When it comes to dried or dehydrated persimmon, its calorie content is about four times higher than that of fresh fruit, reaching around 300 calories per 100 grams. For people managing weight loss, diabetes, or obesity, dried persimmon should be avoided. However, its high carbohydrate content makes dried persimmon a great pre-workout snack for athletes needing an energy boost.
In summary, persimmon can be enjoyed daily in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, portion control is essential, especially for those with health conditions that require careful monitoring of sugar intake.