Most of us are probably still unfamiliar with the matoa fruit. In fact, there are many benefits of matoa fruit that are a pity to miss. Apart from its sweet taste like durian, this fruit also has other characteristics, namely its fragrant aroma and chewy texture similar to rambutan.
Matoa fruit (Pometia pinnata) are in the same family as lychee and longan. This fruit is found in West Papua and is often used as traditional medicine by the people there. Unfortunately, the use of matoa fruit in the food industry has not been so widespread.
Various Benefits of Matoa Fruit
The skin, seeds, and flesh of the matoa fruit are known to have potential as natural antioxidants and antimicrobials. In fact, the skin of the matoa fruit has the highest antioxidant activity compared to the seeds and pulp.
The efficacy of matoa fruit is strongly suspected to come from the large content of polyphenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids that bring benefits to overcome various health problems.
The following are some of the benefits of matoa fruit that are important to know:
1. Lowering blood sugar levels
Some research shows that matoa fruit extract can be used to lower blood sugar levels and keep it stable. The phenolic compounds contained in this fruit extract are known to be able to reduce the absorption of blood sugar in the intestines, so they are good for consumption to protect you from diabetes.
2. Maintain heart health
The benefits of matoa fruit in maintaining heart health come from the antioxidant effects of polyphenols in it which are able to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, as well as reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
With these properties, you will be protected from cardiovascular disease, including heart failure, heart attack, and stroke.
3. Smooth digestion
Matoa fruit has been used in traditional medicine to aid digestion.
The benefits of this matoa fruit are thought to come from the antioxidant content in it which is easily absorbed by the intestines, is able to increase the number of good bacteria or probiotics, and prevent the growth of bad bacteria in the intestines.
If digestion is smooth, your risk for various digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, to inflammatory bowel disease, will be reduced.
4. Prevent cancer
Thanks to a collection of bioactive compounds, matoa fruit also has the potential to prevent cancer.
The antioxidant activity of these bioactive compounds is known to be able to fight excess free radicals in the body that can cause cell and tissue damage. This damage can lead to organ damage to the growth of cancer cells.
Although it has great potential, the benefits of the matoa fruit above still require further research. However, you can still eat matoa fruit safely in an effort to improve your health.
Of course, there is no one magic food that can solve all problems and fulfill the body's needs. So, consumption of matoa fruit needs to be accompanied by the consumption of various fruits and other nutritious and high-antioxidant foods.
If necessary, consult with your doctor about the best eating pattern and menu for your health condition.