Persimmons: Nature's Laxative?

are persimmons a laxative

Persimmons are a natural laxative due to their high fibre content. They also have a detoxifying effect on the liver and provide a diuretic effect. Persimmons are high in vitamins A and C, as well as manganese, which helps the blood to clot. They are also a good source of dietary fibre, with twice as much per 100g as apples. However, unripe persimmons can cause constipation due to their high tannin content, which slows digestion.

Characteristics Values
Laxative Persimmons are a natural laxative due to their high fibre content.
Diuretic Persimmons have a diuretic effect due to their high potassium and calcium content.
Detoxifying Persimmons have a detoxifying effect on the liver.
Good for constipation Persimmons can be a powerful natural remedy for constipation.
High in fibre Persimmons are an excellent source of fibre.
High in water Persimmons contain a lot of water.
High in potassium Persimmons are a good source of potassium.
High in calcium Persimmons are a good source of calcium.
High in vitamin C Persimmons are a good source of vitamin C.

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Persimmons are a natural laxative due to their high fibre content

The fruit also contains large amounts of soluble tannin, which may interact with gastric acid to form a conglomerate that is harder than other phytobezoars. In rare cases, eating too many persimmons, especially on an empty stomach, can lead to a bezoar (an intestinal obstruction) because of the fruit's highly fibrous properties.

Persimmons are also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as manganese, which helps the blood to clot. They contain antioxidants that help reduce the risk of serious health conditions, including cancer and stroke.

The persimmon is a large, round, succulent berry with a smooth, thin peel that ranges in colour from yellow to brilliant orange. The pulp is soft, creamy, and almost gelatinous when the fruit is fully ripe. The shape of the fruit varies from spherical to acorn to flattened or even squarish. The size of a persimmon can vary from about the size of a small orange to as big as a grapefruit.

Persimmons are produced mainly in China, Korea, and Japan, but varieties are also found in America, southern Europe, and even Britain.

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They are also a diuretic, helping to detoxify the body

Persimmons are a diuretic, which means they increase urine production and help the body get rid of excess water and salt. This can be beneficial for people who are experiencing water retention or edema, as well as those with high blood pressure. The diuretic effect of persimmons is due to their high content of potassium and calcium.

Persimmons are also known for their detoxifying effects on the liver, which is an important organ responsible for filtering and removing toxins from the body. The high levels of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta carotene, found in persimmons, play a crucial role in liver health and detoxification. These antioxidants help neutralize toxins and other harmful substances, preventing and repairing damage caused by free radicals.

In addition to their diuretic and detoxifying properties, persimmons are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can promote regular bowel movements and help maintain a healthy digestive system. The high fiber content, along with the diuretic effect, makes persimmons an effective natural remedy for constipation.

The combination of diuretic, detoxifying, and laxative properties makes persimmons a valuable fruit for maintaining a healthy body and promoting overall well-being. However, it is important to consume persimmons in moderation, as excessive consumption may lead to gastric discomfort due to their high tannin content.

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Persimmons are high in tannins, which can cause constipation

Persimmons are a delicious and nutritious fruit, but they can also be a source of gastric discomfort for some people. This is because persimmons—specifically, the astringent variety—are high in tannins, which can cause constipation.

There are two main types of persimmon: astringent and non-astringent. Astringent persimmons, such as the Hachiya or Saijo varieties, contain high levels of tannins before they soften and become fully ripe. These tannins can have a puckering effect on the mouth and an unpleasant taste if the fruit is consumed before it is ripe. Non-astringent persimmons, like the Fuyu or Sheng varieties, on the other hand, lose their tannins sooner, making them edible even when firm.

Tannins are a type of compound found in some foods and beverages, such as tea and red wine. In the case of persimmons, tannins can interact with gastric acid to form a hard conglomerate known as a phytobezoar, which can cause intestinal obstruction. This is what leads to constipation and other digestive issues.

To avoid these potential issues, it is important to only consume astringent persimmons when they are fully ripe and soft. Non-astringent persimmons can be enjoyed when they are still firm, but it is still important to monitor your tolerance and discontinue consumption if constipation occurs.

In addition to their potential impact on digestive health, persimmons offer a range of nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. They have been shown to promote regularity, support eye health, and reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

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They are a good source of vitamins A, C and manganese

Persimmons are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and manganese, as well as other nutrients. They are native to China and have been cultivated for thousands of years for their delicious fruit and beautiful wood. The orange-coloured fruits are known for their sweet, honey-like flavour and are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre.

Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision and supporting the functioning of the conjunctival membranes and cornea. It is also a component of rhodopsin, a protein necessary for healthy vision. Persimmons are an excellent source of vitamin A, with one persimmon providing 15% of the recommended daily intake.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and combats inflammation in the body. It is also important for supporting the immune system and protecting against heart disease. Persimmons are a good source of vitamin C, providing 14% of the recommended daily intake.

Manganese is a mineral that is essential for various biological processes, including bone health, metabolism, and the production of connective tissue. It also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation. Persimmons are a good source of manganese, providing 26% of the daily value.

In addition to vitamins A and C, and manganese, persimmons also contain other important nutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B6, potassium, copper, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, magnesium, and phosphorus. They are also a good source of dietary fibre, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve digestive health.

Overall, persimmons are a nutritious and delicious fruit that can provide a range of health benefits due to their high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes or simply eaten fresh as a healthy snack.

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Persimmons are a versatile fruit, used in both sweet and savoury dishes

There are two main types of persimmon: astringent (hachiya or saijo) and non-astringent (sheng or fuyu). Astringent persimmons are rich, sweet, and spicy, but are mouth-puckeringly tart until fully ripe. Non-astringent persimmons lose their tannins sooner, making them edible even when firm.

Persimmons are an excellent source of phytonutrients, including beta carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and crypto-xanthin, which give the fruit its brilliant orange colour. They are also rich in vitamin A, C, and B vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, and copper.

When it comes to cooking with persimmons, the options are endless. Sweet persimmons can be used in baked goods like cookies, bars, and puddings, or turned into jams and jellies. They also work well in soups, salads, and focaccia flatbread. Fuyu persimmons, in particular, are great in salads due to their firm texture.

On the savoury side, persimmons can be paired with meats like prosciutto, bresaola, or Greek yoghurt and honey. They can also be baked, poached, or broiled. One unique recipe is Baked Feta with Persimmons (Persimmon Bouyiourdi), which combines feta cheese, persimmon slices, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Another option is Persimmon and Bresaola Bites, where wedges of firm Fuyu persimmon are wrapped in paper-thin slices of bresaola, an Italian air-dried beef.

Persimmons are not only delicious but also offer health benefits. They are known to have laxative and diuretic properties, making them beneficial for people with liver problems or constipation. They are also a good source of dietary fibre, containing twice as much fibre per 100g as apples. Additionally, persimmons are energy-dense, making them a recommended choice for children, athletes, and individuals with high physical or mental energy demands.

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