Pomelo is the largest fruit of the citrus family. However, among citrus fruits it is distinguished not only by its size, but also by the abundance of vitamins and other nutrients, especially vitamin C, which it has more than the confusingly similar grapefruit and lemon famous for this vitamin. No wonder that pomelo has many he alth-promoting properties.

Fruit pomelo: what is it?

Pomelo , also known asgiant orange , is the largest representative of citrus fruits - it can reach up to 25 cm in diameter and 2 kg in weight. On the other hand, a spongy skin with a yellow, yellow-green or pink color can be up to 5 cm thick.

Pomelo looks like a grapefruit. No wonder - after all, after crossing a pomelo with a Chinese orange, this fruit was obtained, but the pomelo flesh is more sweet, less acidic and, unfortunately, less aromatic and juicy than grapefruit flesh. The flesh can be white, green or red, with the most valuable nutrients being white.

Pomelo: properties

The properties of pomelo include:

  • strengthening the immune system,
  • regulates blood pressure and heart function,
  • contains antioxidants that inhibit the growth of cancer cells,
  • relieves heartburn and acid reflux,
  • facilitates weight loss.
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Pomelo: nutritional values ​​

All values ​​below are for 100 g of white pomelo flesh.

Energy value - 38 kcal

Protein - 0.76 g

Fat - 0.04 g

Carbohydrates - 9.62 g

Fiber - 1 g

Water - 89%

Minerals

Calcium - 4 mg

Iron - 0.11 mg

Magnesium - 6 mg

Phosphorus - 17 mg

Potassium - 216 mg

Sodium - 1 mg

Zinc - 0.08 mg

Vitaminspomelo

Vitamin C - 61 mg

Thiamine - 0.034 mg

Riboflavin - 0.027 mg

Niacin - 0.220 mg

Vitamin B6 - 0.036 mg

Vitamin A - 8 IU

Data Source: USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference

Pomelo: strengthens the immune system

Pomelo is the citrus fruit richest in vitamin C (approx. 61 mg / 100 g). There is more of this vitamin that strengthens the immune system than in an orange (about 50 mg / 100 g), and even in a grapefruit that is confusingly similar to it (about 34/100 g). In terms of its content, pomelo is not inferior even to lemon, widely regarded as the richest source of vitamin C (approx. 53 mg / 100 g).

Pomelo weighs an average of 600-700 g, which means that already 1/6 of this delicious fruit covers almost 100% of the daily requirement for vitamin C (i.e. about 70 mg).

Pomelo: regulates blood pressure and heart rate

Pomelo is also a rich source of potassium (216 mg / 100 g) - a mineral that is responsible for maintaining the body's water and electrolyte balance and regulates muscle tone, blood pressure and heart rhythm. Pomelo contains almost as much of it as tomatoes (237 mg / 100 g), which are an integral part of the diet of people with hypertension.

Pomelo pectins contained in the flesh and skin also play an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, inhibiting the rate of fat deposition in the arteries, and thus preventing the development of atherosclerosis. In turn, vitamin C helps to increase the elasticity of the vessels.

Pomelo: in cancer prevention

Pomelo fruit, especially the thick, fleshy skin and membranes between the fruit's particles, contain a lot of bioflavonoids - antioxidants that inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Unfortunately, these membranes are very bitter and spoil the taste of pomelos, so it is usually recommended to remove them and eat the flesh only.

Pomelo: for acid reflux and heartburn

After digestion, pomelo juice shows alkaline-forming properties. Therefore, it is recommended for people who suffer from reflux and heartburn.

Pomelo: promotes weight loss

The enzymes contained in pomelo limit the absorption of starch from food and help reduce the amount of sugar that enters the blood after a meal. On the other hand, pectins - the fiber contained in pomelo's flesh, skin and intercellular membranes - quickly fill the stomach and increase the feeling of fullness.

Pomelo and diabetes

The

IG pomelo is 30, which means it is a fruit with a low glycemic index. Therefore, people with diabetes can consume it without fear. It is worth knowing that pomelos together with grapefruit are citrus fruitsrecommended by diabetologists.

Why is pomelo better not kept in the fridge?

Pregnant pomelo

Vitamin C and potassium contained in pomelo make blood vessels more flexible and prevent fluctuations in blood pressure. Therefore, it is a fruit that plays an important role in pregnancy. In the first months of pregnancy, arteries and veins lose their elasticity, and as a result, blood circulates a little slower, and thus - blood pressure slightly lowers.

Unfortunately, citrus is a common cause of allergies, so you should eat them in small amounts and watch out for any disturbing changes that occur after eating them.

Citrus fruits are usually sprayed with numerous chemicals, so before using them, pregnant women should wash them thoroughly (preferably scrub the skin with a brush) and then peel them.

See what fruits are rich in vitamin C!

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How to peel a pomelo?

To peel a pomelo, cut the peel several times along the length of the fruit, and then use a knife to remove it, starting from the base of the fruit. After peeling the pomelo, remove the bitter interstitial membranes and the inedible seeds. Only the pulp is suitable for consumption.

How to eat a pomelo?

Pomelos can be eaten raw or made into juice or marmalade. Candied pomelo rind is a good addition to cakes and desserts. Unpeeled fruit can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two to four months.

It's good to know that the best pomelos are the heaviest ones with the most juice. Therefore, before you buy a pomelo, weigh a few in the store and choose the one with the most decagrams.

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