Health Benefits of Passion Fruit

Most of us have heard of passion fruit, but not many of us know of its amazing health benefits. Now, more than ever, we need more ways to boost our immune system and secure our health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of the many ways passion fruit can improve our health.

To start, passion fruit has a plethora of vitamins and nutrients. Vitamin A and vitamin C are two examples which are both great for the immune system. Likewise, passion fruit contains vital nutrients like vitamin B-6, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, fiber, copper, protein, phosphorus, and niacin. Passion fruit also has been proven to soothe respiratory issues like asthma, whooping cough, and wheezing. In the era of a vicious respiratory condition like COVID-19, this is great information to keep in mind.

Another important benefit of passion fruit is that it’s high in antioxidants and fiber. Antioxidants are great for protecting the body’s cells from damage, while also increasing blood flow. Antioxidants also decrease inflammation in the body which helps joint pain and could even protect against some diseases like heart disease or Alzheimer’s. Fiber is excellent for the gut and digestive system overall. Additional health benefits of passion fruit include enhancement of eye health, due to its high amount of vitamin A and increasing insulin sensitivity, which prevents diabetes.

Given this information, we now know many ways that passion fruit can aid in physical health…but what about mental health? Passion fruit aids in treating common conditions like anxiety and insomnia, due to its high level of magnesium and the compound, harmann. These both have a calming effect on the nervous system, lessening anxiety, aiding in sleep, and reducing stress overall. We all know that stress weakens the immune system, so by reducing stress, the immune system will in turn be protected.

Passion fruit can be eaten as a whole fruit or added to salads and yogurt. It can also be used in tea, juice, or to flavor water. If you’re looking for less healthier options, but still want to enjoy the delicious taste of passion fruit, you can add it to your desserts or alcoholic beverages. All in all, passion fruit is a refreshing, tropical fruit that tastes delicious while improving your health at the same time!

Works Cited

“Passion Fruit: 8 Benefits and Nutrition.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324383.

“Passion Fruit 101 – Everything You Need To Know.” Healthline, Healthline Media, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/passion-fruit.

Sakura, et al. “12 Surprising Health Benefits of Passion Fruit and Its Vine Leaves.” Gardening Channel, 17 May 2019, www.gardeningchannel.com/health-benefits-passion-fruit/.