Durian: The King of Fruits That Makes You Dizzy

Durian fruit is a fruit that is famous for its strong aroma and rich fruit flesh. Durian has a hard skin with sharp thorns around it. Inside there is a yellow or white flesh, which has a soft and creamy texture with a distinctive taste.

Durian is widely found in the Southeast Asian region, especially in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. This fruit is often called the “king of fruits” because of its unique taste. Durian is also known as a fruit that is controversial, because some people like it while others can’t stand its strong aroma.

Benefits of durian fruit

Durian also has a fairly high nutritional value. This fruit contains healthy fats, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamin C, and several minerals such as potassium and iron. However, due to its high fat content, durian also contains a lot of calories, so it needs to be consumed wisely.

Durian fruit has several health benefits if consumed in moderation. The following are some of the benefits associated with durian fruit:

1. Rich in nutrients:

Durian contains many important nutrients such as vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, iron, potassium, calcium, and fiber. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall body health.

2. Energy source:

Durian contains carbohydrates which provide energy for the body. Complex carbohydrates in durian provide energy that lasts longer than fast energy sources such as sugar.

3. Boost immunity:

The content of vitamin C in durian helps boost the immune system. Vitamin C plays a role in the production of collagen, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, bones and blood vessels.

4. Maintain heart health:

Durian contains fiber, potassium, and antioxidants which can help maintain heart health. Fiber helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure. Antioxidants protect the heart from damage caused by free radicals.

5. Helps digestion:

Durian contains fiber which helps improve digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber can also help maintain the health of the digestive tract in general.

6. Provides antioxidants:

Durian contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids. Antioxidants protect the body’s cells from free radical damage that can lead to premature aging and chronic disease.

7. Maintain bone health:

Durian contains calcium and magnesium which are important for bone health. Calcium plays a role in the formation and maintenance of bones, while magnesium helps the body absorb calcium.

Even though durian has health benefits, keep in mind that this fruit is also high in calories and fat. Therefore, consume durian wisely and in an amount that suits your body’s needs. If you have certain health conditions, it is advisable to consult a doctor before adding durian to your diet.

Processed from durian fruit

Usually, durian is eaten fresh after opening the skin. However, in some areas, durian is also processed into various foods such as durian ice cream, durian dodol, or baked goods. Durian is also often used as the main ingredient in desserts or drinks.

Durian fruit can be processed into various dishes and delicious food. Here are some popular preparations of durian fruit:

1. Durian Ice: Durian is often used as the main ingredient in delicious durian ice cream. Durian ice is usually made from mashed durian flesh, milk, sugar and shaved ice. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for hot weather.
2. Dodol Durian: Dodol is a sweet and chewy food made from durian. Dodol durian is made by mixing durian flesh with sugar, glutinous rice flour and coconut milk. Then this mixture is cooked until it becomes a chewy and dense texture. Dodol durian has a strong and sweet taste.
3. Durian Pancakes: Durian pancakes are a dessert consisting of pancake dough filled with durian flesh. These pancakes can be served with sweet syrup or vanilla ice cream for a delicious blend of flavors.
4. Durian Balls: Durian balls are a sweet dish made from a mixture of flour, eggs, sugar and durian flesh. This mixture is then fried until it turns brown. The durian balls have a crunchy texture on the outside and soft on the inside.
5. Mooncake Durian: Mooncake is a traditional food that is usually consumed during the Full Moon Festival. Mooncake durian is a variation of mooncake filled with durian paste which is rich in taste and soft.
6. Pengat Durian: Pengat is a Malaysian sweet dish made from a mixture of durian, coconut milk and sugar. Pengat durian is usually cooked until thickened and served cold. It’s creamy, sweet, and delicious.
7. Durian Smoothie: Durian can be used as the main ingredient in a refreshing smoothie. Ripe durian flesh is mixed with milk or yogurt, ice cubes and sugar according to taste. Durian smoothies are rich, creamy and fun to enjoy.

Keep in mind that these preparations may have a fairly high sugar and fat content. Therefore, consume wisely and in an amount that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Dangers of durian fruit

Even though durian fruit has health benefits, there are a number of things that need to be considered related to the dangers or side effects that may be associated with consuming durian fruit. Here are some factors you need to pay attention to:

1. Strong aroma: Durian has a very strong and distinctive aroma. For some people, this smell may be unpleasant and may even cause nausea or vomiting. If you can’t stand the aroma, you should avoid consuming durian.
2. Calorie and fat content: Durian contains quite high calories and fat. If consumed in excessive amounts, it can lead to weight gain. Therefore, consume wisely and in portions that suit your body’s needs.
3. Allergic effects: Durian can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms of a durian allergy can include skin rashes, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you have a history of food allergies or feel allergic symptoms after consuming durian, stop consuming it immediately and consult a doctor.
4. Increased blood sugar: Durian contains carbohydrates that can increase blood sugar. Therefore, for individuals with diabetes or blood sugar regulation problems, it is necessary to be careful in consuming durian. It is recommended to check blood sugar levels after consuming durian and consult a doctor or nutritionist regarding safe consumption.
5. Effects on digestion: Durian is high in fiber, which can cause digestive disorders such as diarrhea or bloating if consumed in excessive amounts. If you have digestive problems or sensitivity to fiber, you should limit your consumption of durian.

Every individual has a different response to food, including durian. If you have certain health concerns or conditions, it is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist before adding durian to your diet.