Pomelo: benefits and harms to human health

In Southeast Asia, pomelo has been cultivated for over 2000 years. The birthplace of the fruit is China and Malaysia, from where it spread throughout the region. Pomelo refers to citrus fruits, it is often considered a hybrid of grapefruit, but this is a misconception.

The fruit “got into” Europe twice, at first it was brought by the Dutch sailors, but then the pomelo did not become popular. And the second time he was brought by Captain Sheddock from America, hence his second name - Sheddock.

What is a pomelo and where does it grow

The fruit grows on a tree of the same name, whose height reaches about 15 m. The leaves are large, the flowers are white. It is the largest fruit of all citrus fruits, its mass can reach several kilograms, and in diameter and size it resembles a small melon. It tastes sour-sweet with a bitter hue. The color of the fruit is from pale green to yellow, the peel is thick, the lobules are large, separated from each other by a dense partition. Eat both raw and processed.

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Today, pomelo are cultivated almost throughout Southeast Asia, as well as in the USA (California) and Israel. There are more than 20 species, but only a few are considered popular:

1. Khao-horn - sweet in taste, the flesh is light, the skin color is light green.
2. Khao namphung - the fruit is shaped like a large pear, it tastes sweet, the flesh is light, the peel is light yellow.
3. Khao paen is the oldest pomelo species, and for more than 150 years it has been grown mainly in Bangkok. The fruit is slightly flattened, and the thickness of the peel reaches 1 cm. The fruit has a peculiarity: the peel may be slightly wrinkled, and some mistakenly believe that this is a sign of corruption, but this is not so. The flesh of this species is quite large and consists of 10 or more lobules. It tastes sweet, with notes of bitterness.
4. Khao phuang is a type of fruit that American explorer Wester bred at the beginning of the last century in the Philippines. In fact, the pomelo was crossed with mandarin. The fruit resembles a pear in shape; the skin is about 2 cm thick. When ripe, its color becomes greenish-yellow. The pulp consists of 12-14 slices. The fruit is juicy, sweet in taste, no bitterness. The main supplier is Thailand, because in this country the most favorable conditions for its cultivation.
5. Thongdi - a pomelo, which was bred in Thailand, differs from all other species, primarily in size, in diameter it reaches 15 cm. The peel is greenish, about 1 cm thick, and the flesh is pink. It tastes sweet, without bitterness, a lot of pits. It develops well in conditions that are not suitable for citrus growth.

What distinguishes pomelo from grapefruit

Grapefruit appeared as a result of random hybridization of a pomelo and an orange, therefore it is he who is a hybrid of a pomelo, and not vice versa.The name grapefruit received due to the fact that its fruits resemble clusters of grapes.

Of course, the fruits are quite similar, but differ both in taste and in shape, as well as in the content of useful elements.

Composition and calorie content

First of all, it is important to note that 100 g of fruit contains about 35–40 kcal, therefore pomelo is considered a dietary product. And most nutritionists include it in diets.

100 g contains:

• Proteins - 0.7-0.9 g.
• Fats are absent.
• Carbohydrates - about 9 g.
• Dietary fiber - about 1 g.

In addition to low calorie content, pomelo differs from many fruits in the content of vitamins, micro and macro elements.

Vitamins
Most of all it contains B vitamins, namely:

1. Vitamin B1 - plays a huge role in the metabolism. It is vital for normal development and growth. It has a positive effect on the work of the heart and nervous system, normalizes the digestive tract. For most people, an additional intake of this vitamin is required, especially for those who consume mainly boiled food, alcohol and tea.
2. Vitamin B2 is one of the most important water-soluble vitamins, as it is needed for the formation of red blood cells and antibodies in the blood. He also regulates and normalizes the reproductive function. It has a positive effect on the growth of hair, nails and the health of the body.
3. Vitamin B6 - plays a direct role in regulating the digestibility of proteins by the body. Essential for the production of blood cells and hemoglobin.

Also pomelo in its arsenal has such vitamins:

1. Vitamin C - perhaps one of the most important and necessary vitamins in the human body, is the most powerful antioxidant. Participates in the formation of DNA and is necessary for the normal functioning of connective and bone tissue.
2. Vitamin PP or nicotinic acid - refers to the B vitamins, it is necessary in the body to participate in oxidative processes. It is also sometimes called the “Vitamin of Calm” and compared with Vitamin C.
3. Separately, it is worth highlighting vitamin A. Pomelo contains beta-carotene, which, under the action of certain enzymes, becomes vitamin A. If we talk about taking tablets, then in most cases an overdose of vitamin is possible, so it is better to use products containing beta-carotene.

Macronutrients

1. Calcium is an element that is necessary for the formation and renewal of bone tissue. Also in combination with sodium it supports the function of intercellular membranes.
2. Magnesium is an element that many scientists call the "metal of life", since it is involved in almost all processes associated with the metabolism of the body and supports the health of all cells.
3. Sodium - in one form or another is found in every human organ. From this we can conclude that its deficiency can affect the normal development of the body.
4. Potassium is an element responsible for the metabolism between cells. A decrease in potassium in the body can not be recognized immediately, which poses a certain threat. One of the signs of a decrease in number is cramping and pain, as it affects the “strength” of the muscles. The lack of this element makes the blood vessels thinner, which leads to increased pressure.
5. Phosphorus is another major useful macro-element contained in pomelo. Despite the fact that the bulk of it is in the teeth and bones, we can safely say that it is important for the whole body, because it is directly involved in the formation of cell membranes.

Trace elements

1. Iron. The main function of this element is the delivery of oxygen to all cells in the body. It is iron that is responsible for the uptake of oxygen, after which red blood cells distribute it to all organs. It also takes a direct part in the metabolism, because iron is an integral part of many proteins and enzymes.
2. Zinc. This element is no less important than others. A person must consume a sufficient amount of it, because it takes part in metabolism and helps strengthen bones and teeth.Zinc is also necessary for the synthesis and cleavage of almost all proteins.
3. Copper. Thanks to it, iron in the body becomes hemoglobin, and also takes part in the formation of certain enzymes.

What is useful pomelo

In addition to the already mentioned useful elements, the pomelo fruit also contains others that positively affect the human body as a whole, and in some cases can be especially valuable for a woman, man or child.

For women

The composition of the fruit contains essential oils and flavinoids, which contribute to the normal functioning of the pancreas and hinder the development of breast cancer cells. They also facilitate the postoperative state and effects of chemotherapy.

In the stage of menopause in women, the hormonal background is disturbed, which leads to the occurrence of osteoporosis. Pomelo helps to remove excess estrogen from the body and thereby participates in the normalization of hormonal levels. And phosphorus and calcium in its composition prevent the development of osteoporosis and strengthen bone tissue. Thus, in some cases, the fruit is mandatory for women of a certain age.

Pomelo is also used for cosmetic purposes, it smoothes wrinkles and improves complexion. Its juice can be used for washing and making masks.

For men

The antioxidants contained in the pomelo are able to remove poisons and toxins from the body, so the fruit must be consumed after a hangover.

The fruit contains essential oils that make the pomelo a powerful aphrodisiac, which significantly increases the sex drive of men. And the presence of vitamin C strengthens the walls of blood vessels and improves blood circulation in the pelvis, which increases erectile function.

During pregnancy

Pomelo contains many useful substances, which makes it an excellent fruit for nutrition of expectant mothers. First of all, it is vitamin C, which protects the immune system of the mother, and therefore the child. Fruit can be eaten both in the first trimester, and much later.

Thanks to the presence of phosphorus and calcium, the pomelo not only strengthens the mother’s bone tissue, but also contributes to the normal development of the skeleton of the fetus. A significant useful property is a decrease in blood pressure, which often rises in pregnant women.

The fruit can and should be eaten by those pregnant women who suffer from gastrointestinal problems. It normalizes the intestines, stops heartburn and belching. It also improves mood and helps fight depression.

When breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a period that is extremely important for any child in the first six months of life. It is mother’s milk that protects him from viruses and infections. That is why it is so important to follow a certain diet at this time.

Most experts do not recommend restricting the intake of healthy products, because what is good for the mother’s body is also useful for the child. However, in the case of the pomelo, like most citrus fruits, there is a reservation. It is no secret that even ordinary food can cause an allergic reaction, not to mention fruits such as tangerines, oranges and pomelo. Use them carefully. If mom wants to introduce them into the diet, it should be done gradually.

For children

Fruit can be given to children from two years of age, as it can cause allergies at an early age. Pomelo can be eaten by a child not often, no more than 2-3 times a week, as the fruit significantly affects digestion. In children with frequent use, it can cause a violation in the digestive tract.

In general, the fruit is very useful for children, as it contains a large amount of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system. In combination with other drugs, pomelo is used to treat anemia due to the presence of iron in it.

Still useful properties of the pomelo for children:

1. Thanks to the presence of phosphorus, pomelo improves the intellectual potential of the child.
2. If you regularly eat fruit, blood pressure normalizes.
3. Limonoids prevent the development of cancer cells, so it is included in diets for children who are predisposed to cancer.
4. Thanks to iron, zinc and magnesium, pomelo boosts metabolism, which leads to the release of energy, which is so necessary for children who are actively involved in sports.
5. Pectin normalizes and improves the digestive tract.

The benefits of peel pomelo

The beautiful and bright peel of the pomelo smells pleasantly and contains useful bioflavonoids and vitamin PP, which has a beneficial effect on the health of the digestive tract. In particular, it prevents diseases associated with it. Eating a peel will not work, because it is inedible and bitter. But you can add it to tea or make jam from it.

Useful properties of pomelo when losing weight

As mentioned earlier, pomelo, many experts include in the diet for weight loss. The importance of this product is due to the fact that due to the presence of fibers in the composition, the fruit causes a feeling of satiety, and vitamins and nutrients compensate for their deficiency in the diet.

The fruit itself has a fairly low calorie content, and a large number of macro- and microelements involved in the absorption and metabolism, improves metabolism and causes the breakdown of fats, respectively, contributes to weight loss. Normalization of the digestive tract also contributes to weight loss and overall health.

Experts recommend eating pomelo with mono-diets and include in the diet on fasting days.

Pomelo in medicine

With diabetes

One of the few products that is approved for type 1 and type 2 diabetes is pomelo. Its glycemic index is 30, which is a normal indicator for patients with such a pathology.

The fruit is low in calories, so you should not worry about the figure. It saturates the body with useful substances, which is extremely important for diabetics. It also reduces the amount of glucose in the blood and prevents its jumps.

Pomelo has a beneficial effect on the pancreas, the malfunctioning of which is a problem for all diabetics, and the essential oils in its composition help to transfer various infectious diseases more easily. Pomelo can harm only those who have individual intolerance, everyone else can and should use it.

As for the amount of fruit that can be consumed with the disease, it is not more than 150 g, so the fruit must be divided into several parts. Pomelo juice can be drunk no more than 100 ml at a time.

With pancreatitis

The peculiarity of the diet for pancreatitis is that at the first time of the disease or with its exacerbation it is categorically not advisable to eat fresh foods. Over time, this ban is partially lifted. Speaking specifically about the pomelo, then its use in pancreatitis is highly not recommended.

The organic acids that make up the pomelo activate the stomach. They are also activators of the glands responsible for the production of enzymes that promote accelerated digestion, which is not recommended for this disease.

It is worth remembering that over time, with proper treatment, many fruits and vegetables can be returned to the diet. However, you need to be careful not to be at the very beginning of the path of treatment of the disease.

With gastritis

Gastritis is a disease that occurs with a decreased, increased, and sometimes with normal acidity of the stomach. With increased acidity, the use of pomelo is categorically undesirable. It contains a large number of organic acids that negatively affect the already inflamed gastric mucosa.

At the same time, with reduced acidity, eating a fetus in limited quantities is possible. In this case, an increase in acidity will not be harmful, but for the benefit. Moreover, the same organic acids in the composition of the fruit will contribute to motility and improve digestion. Thus, a clear answer to the question - is the product useful or harmful for gastritis, no. In any case, if you include this product in the diet for patients with this disease, you should consult a doctor and pass a number of tests.

For the intestines

As already mentioned above, pomelo directly affects the digestive tract due to the presence in its composition of a large amount of organic acids, as well as a specific fiber that differs from other citrus fruits. This helps to eliminate toxins and toxins. And with regular use of pomelo in food, digestion and gastric motility improves.

For constipation

When splitting complex proteins, the occurrence of disorders and problems with the digestive tract is possible. The pomelo contains about 1/4 of the daily norm of fiber, which normalizes digestion and prevents the occurrence of constipation and diarrhea. It also stimulates the production of enzymes that contribute to the active breakdown of food, which facilitates the absorption of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

With gout

Gout is a disease associated with the accumulation of uric acid salts in the joints. In this disease, along with drugs, you should adhere to a certain diet in order to defeat the ailment. With gout, it is possible to eat pomelo, like other citrus fruits, but before that, you still need to consult an observing specialist. The presence of vitamin C and organic acids does not affect the deposition of salts in the joints.

In order to properly draw up a diet for gout, you should be aware that the use of products containing purine and uric acid is not recommended. Even in case of inflammation, the pomelo and some other fruits can be consumed without fear of an aggravation of the situation.

With gout in the fight against the disease, vitamin C is extremely important, which is found in large quantities in the broom. It slows down the aging of bone and connective tissue cells, and combined action with some drugs only enhances the effect of the latter. Also, vitamin accelerates and facilitates the removal of urates from the patient's body.

For the liver

Products containing mainly vitamins A and C are useful for the liver, thus, pomelo not only does not harm its work and condition, but on the contrary, it is very useful. In addition, the presence of elements such as magnesium and potassium only increases the benefits of the fruit.

With cholecystitis

As with pancreatitis and diabetes, with cholecystitis, you must adhere to a certain diet. Together with the taken preparations, fruits help to establish the normal functioning of the gallbladder.

To improve the functioning of the stomach, in particular peristalsis, and the conduct of bile, most nutritionists and doctors recommend eating sweet fruits.

Pomelo, which is rich in vitamins, dietary fiber, macro- and microelements, is very suitable for the diet of patients with cholecystitis. In addition, beneficial substances pomelo stimulate the secretion of bile and digestive glands, lowering cholesterol and eliminating constipation. And vitamin C prevents the thickening of bile, and therefore, the formation of stones in the gallbladder.

Pomelo-based traditional medicine recipes

Dissolution and removal of stones from the kidneys and gall bladder

To begin with, you should completely refuse food for a day, you can drink water in unlimited quantities. Before starting the procedure, it is best to make a cleansing enema, and after an hour drink a glass of olive oil and 200 ml of pomelo juice. After drinking olive oil, nausea can occur, so it’s better to lie down right away. After about half an hour, you need to take a salt laxative. The next day, the procedure must be repeated.

The exit of stones can be seen in the urine in the form of small grains. The procedure should be repeated until the exit of sand stops. Its duration may take about a week, but the result is worth it.Before the procedure and after, you can do an ultrasound examination and see how effective the method is.

Strengthening the walls of blood vessels

The composition of the pomelo peel includes vitamin PP, which contributes to the strength and elasticity of blood vessels, and this ensures the transmission of ascorbic acid and affects the amount of cholesterol in the body. Vitamin PP is water soluble, so it is easy enough to isolate. To do this, peel diced should be placed in boiled water for one hour. Then the resulting solution should be drunk, and eat the peel.

Anemia

Anemia results in a lack of iron in the human body. The disease is treated quite simply - with mixtures of juices from fruits and vegetables: grapefruit, pomelo, apple or carrot. The amount of this or that juice, as well as the composition, can be changed periodically.

Osteochondrosis Treatment

The water-salt balance is important for the normal functioning of organs in case of its violation. Due to the lack of necessary elements, in particular sodium, osteochondrosis, gout or arthritis occurs.

A folk remedy is not a medicine, but it can be used together with the main drug to increase the effectiveness of treatment. The bottom line is this: you need to chew the pomelo crust for several minutes, and then swallow it. This should be done once a day. After 10 procedures, you can evaluate the result.

In the treatment of cough

The tool is quite simple to prepare, for this you will need: 0.5 kg pomelo, 0.25 ml of honey and 0.1 l of vodka. Pomelo pulp must be crushed in a container, pour vodka and leave to infuse for a day.

Then heat the container in a water bath until the vodka has completely evaporated. Pour the resulting mass with honey. Take three times a day, one tablespoon.

Pomelo in cosmetology

Anti-aging mask

To prepare a rejuvenating mask, you need to take 100 g of fruit pulp, the same amount of honey and 50 g of lemon juice. First you need to thoroughly clean the pulp of the broomstick and grind it in mashed potatoes, which is mixed with honey, and then add lemon juice. The mask should be applied to the face and left for 20-25 minutes, then rinse with warm mineral water. Do not wipe with a towel after the procedure. After the skin has dried, a moisturizer can be applied.

Nourishing mask

To prepare the mask, you need to take 100 g of pomelo pulp, a tablespoon of honey and lemon juice. The pulp should be peeled, chopped, add honey and lemon juice, mix thoroughly. Apply at bedtime, except for areas around the eyes, for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with water. The skin after such a mask will be soft, the face tone will even out, inflammation will go away, the pores will become cleaner.

Oily Skin Lotion

To prepare the lotion you will need vodka and directly the pulp of the pomelo. The latter must be cleaned and cut into pieces. Then place in a shallow dish and pour vodka, which should cover the fruit by 2 cm. Infuse should be 2 weeks, stirring occasionally. Then strain, dilute the resulting liquid with boiled water 1: 1.

Harm and contraindications

The pomelo has no contraindications, but it is not recommended to use it if there are problems with the kidneys or liver, the acidity of the stomach is violated, as well as with personal intolerance.

Excessive use may cause dizziness, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.

How to choose a ripe pomelo in a store

For export, the pomelo is collected immature. The ripening process occurs on the way and on the shelves of the store, so you need to know how to choose the right fruit so as not to be disappointed in the purchase.

1. The first thing you should pay attention to is the color of the fruit, it must match the variety.
2. Second: the fruit should be soft and have a pleasant characteristic aroma.
3. Third: the size should correspond to the weight.For example, sometimes a fairly large pomelo can be light, which means that it has not accumulated enough moisture, which means that the pulp does not have any taste or nutritional value.
4. And the last: the fruit should not have damage, dents or traces of decay.

How and where to store pomelo correctly

Few people know how to store pomelo correctly and where, due to the small popularity of the fruit. Shelf life depends on the type. If you choose the right fruit when buying, it can be stored for up to 8 weeks.

So, a pomelo, like any citrus fruit, loves dark and cool places, the ideal temperature for this is + 5 ° C. Under such conditions, it will be stored for 7 to 8 weeks. If the fruit is indoors at room temperature, while sunlight is exposed to it, the period is reduced to 3-4 weeks.

Unripe fruits should not be placed in a refrigerator or a cool place, since under these conditions they will not become ripe. Such fruits are best stored at room temperature. Signs of immaturity are the uneven coloring of the fetus and the absence of a characteristic odor.

In the refrigerator, the pomelo should be stored so that the fruits do not touch each other and are wrapped with cling film. If one of them begins to deteriorate, it should be removed from the others.

The peeled fruit cannot be stored even in the refrigerator for more than a day.

How to eat pomelo fruit

How much can you eat per day

Since pomelo significantly affects the functioning of the stomach, it is not worth abusing this product. The optimal daily rate should be half the fetus.

Can I eat at night

Due to the fact that the fruit quickly dulls hunger, as well as low-calorie and does not overload the body, it can be eaten at any time, including at night.

Why bitter pomelo

Sometimes the pomelo is slightly bitter, and this is quite normal. However, bitterness should not be as pronounced as that of grapefruit. If the fruit is clearly bitter, it means that it is overripe or frozen. This happens because the pomelo is sent still green, and on the road it can overlook.

How to quickly clean a pomelo

Those with strong fingers and nails can peel the fruit without auxiliary tools; everyone else will need a small knife. To start, the broom must be washed and dried.

To quickly and correctly peel the fruit, first you need to cut off the top. Then, several incisions should be made downward, gently pry the peel and separate from the pulp. If the fruit is ripe, then this will not be difficult.

What can be cooked from pomelo: recipes

Pomelo and Shrimp Salad

Seafood has always been combined with citrus fruits, and pomelo is no exception.

To make a salad you will need:

• 1 small pomelo.
• 200 g of shrimp.
• Salt to taste.
• Half a lemon.
• A teaspoon of honey.
• Salad.
• Red pepper.
• Arugula, pomegranate seeds.

Salad preparation is very simple: for this you should boil the shrimp, peel and cool. Then thoroughly clean the broom and cut the slices into 2-3 parts. For dressing, mix salt, honey, lemon juice, olive oil and pepper. Shrimp, chopped pomelo and dressing mix, add arugula and salad, serve the dish, sprinkled with pomegranate seeds.

Jam

To make jam, you need pomelo, sugar, lemon juice. You can add nutmeg or cloves.

The pomelo must be thoroughly cleaned, per kg of pulp requires 700-800 g of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the pulp with sugar, add lemon juice (100 ml) and leave for 6-7 hours. Then put on fire and bring to a boil, cool and simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Since the flesh is slightly drier than other citrus fruits, the jam is much thicker.

Pomelo tangerine and cashew smoothie

Smoothies, unlike juices, are more useful because they retain fiber in their composition, due to which blood sugar does not increase.

For cooking you will need: 200 g of pomelo pulp, 4 small tangerines, 20 g of cashew nuts.

It is necessary to thoroughly clean the pomelo and tangerines from the peel and seeds. Pomelo pulp should be cut into small pieces. Initially place the nuts in the blender. After they are crushed into powder, add prepared fruit. Beat fruit with nuts for 3-4 minutes. A healthy smoothie from the pomelo is ready.

Candied fruit

In the preparation of candied pomelo, there is also nothing complicated. To do this, you need a pomelo peel, water, sugar and patience.

First you need to cut the peel of the fruit and add water for two days. Water should be renewed twice a day so that the bitter taste leaves it. Then drain and add fresh, put on fire and bring to a boil. This procedure must be repeated 4-7 times until the peel becomes transparent. Now the peel must be covered with sugar and add water so that it slightly covers it. Put on the fire again and cook for 30–40 minutes. After the parsley peel pomelo have cooled to room temperature, put them on parchment paper and dry. The drying process may take several days.

Is it possible to give animals pomelo fruit

There is a common belief that you should not feed animals with products that are not in their natural habitat. But we can safely say that the animal will not eat what is harmful to it. As for citrus fruits, namely pomelo, the use of it in food by animals does not pose any threat, on the contrary, useful substances and elements will only benefit.

Do not feed the pet pomelo if it has a violation of the digestive system, diabetes or personal intolerance to the fruit.

It is also believed that citrus fruits are dangerous for animals because of the large amount of vitamin C. This judgment is fundamentally not true, if there are no problems with the kidneys and liver, then excess vitamin is eliminated without problems from the animal.

Interesting facts about pomelo fruit

1. Pomelo is the largest citrus fruit.
2. Pomelo is sold with a covered film, which protects it from mold and fungi.
3. The pulp of the pomelo is drier than that of other citrus fruits, so it is not practical to prepare juice from it.
4. The weight of the fetus can reach 10 kg, and the thickness of the peel is 5 cm.
5. In China, they still give pomelo for the New Year.
6. The heavier the fruit, the tastier and more nutritious it is.

Pomelo fruit photo