Pomelo

Citrus fruits are famous for their numerous health benefits, particularly on the body’s immune system, So what better way to get your daily fix of vitamin C than with the citrus family’s largest member – pomelo?

Pomelos go by a variety of names, such as pamplemousse, pumelo (or pummelo) and shaddock. It is sometimes confused with the grapefruit because of their similarities, although pomelo is technically the “father” of the grapefruit, as the grapefruit is a hybrid of the sweet orange and the pomelo fruit.

However, pomelos are not as well known as other members of the citrus family, with some Americans oblivious to the existence of this fruit. If this is the first time that you’re hearing of the humble pomelo, don’t be left out and try it out now.

What Are Pomelos?

Pomelos originated from Southeast Asia, but are now grown in different countries around the world. The U.S. is now one of the biggest producers of pomelos, beating China, Mexico and other countries.

The regions where these trees grow are characterized by their warm, tropical climate, like Florida, where temperature ranges from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 30 degrees Celsius). The pomelo tree can grow up to 15 meters high, with some varieties having thorny branches.

Being the largest citrus fruit, the pomelo measures between 10 to 30 centimeters in diameter, and can weigh up to 3 kilograms. The color of its skin ranges from light green to yellow, with a thick pith that protects its flesh. The flesh of the pomelo also differs in color, depending on the variety. Their color ranges from white to rose-red.

As for the taste, some people say that pomelos taste like grapefruit, but without the tartness. It actually has a sweeter flavor than other citruses.

Pomelo’s Outstanding Health Benefits

Pomelo boasts of many health benefits due to its high amounts of vitamin C. Here are some of pomelo’s nutritional benefits that you should be aware of:

• Boosts Your Immune System.One serving of pomelo fruit contains roughly 116 milligrams of vitamin C, a whopping 193 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is famous for its effects on the immune system, its ability to aid in wound healing and its function in the body’s iron absorption. It also helps fight off harmful free radicals.
• Assists in Digestion.Pomelo contains high amounts of fiber, which helps in maintaining the balance in the digestive system. It promotes healthy digestion and smooth movement of bowels in the digestive tract, therefore helping you avoid diarrhea and constipation.
• Maintains Normal Blood Pressure Levels. The potassium in pomelo can help release tension in blood vessels and aid in blood circulation and the oxygenation of the different body systems. It also helps prevent atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes because it minimizes the strain on the heart.
• Aids in Weight Loss. Eating pomelo can also be essential in weight loss because it contains fat-burning enzymes that can help decrease the amount of sugar and starch in the body. It is also filling, helping you avoid overeating.

Studies also show that the extract from pomelo skin can help resolve metabolic disorders. Previous studies have suggested that citrus peels are abundant with flavonoids, coumarins and limonoids. These components have an effect on the cardiovascular, immune and the endocrine systems. According to the research, obese mice (fed with a high-fat diet) who were treated with pomelo peel extract showed an improved glucose tolerance.

Pomelo Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 100 grams, raw
	Amt. Per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	38
Calories from Fat	0
Total Fat	0 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Trans Fat
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrates	10 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1 g	4%
Sugar
Protein	1 g
Vitamin A0%	Vitamin C	102%
Calcium0%	Iron	1%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

 

Pomelos may not be as popular as its other fruit relatives, but it offers just as much as they do – sometimes more, especially in terms of serving size. Try this juicy fruit today and be ready to get big benefits and astounding health boosts.