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Vitamins in Jackfruits

Jackfruits, also known as jak-fruit or jaca, are the world's largest tree-borne fruits, growing up to 20 inches wide and 3 feet long. Adapted to tropical climates, jackfruits can weigh from 10 to 110 pounds, and when ripe, their rinds are green or yellow. An unopened ripe jackfruit smells like decaying onions, but the opened fruit has a banana-pineapple scent. While not commonly available in large chain supermarkets, jackfruits can be found in local Asian markets. Jackfruits are filled with essential vitamins that help keep the body healthy.

  1. Vitamin A

    • One cup of jackfruit (165 grams) provides 10 percent of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recommended daily value of vitamin A---based on a 2,000-calorie diet---according to NutritionData.com. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that helps with vision and bone growth, and is essential for immune system functioning. It also helps form and maintain skin, mucous membranes and soft tissue.

    Vitamin B6

    • A cup of jackfruit provides nine percent, of the USDA daily value. Vitamin B6 supports brain function and is used to form red blood cells. It helps the body produce antibodies and is used to break down proteins.

    Vitamin C

    • The daily value of vitamin C that a cup of jackfruit provides is 18 percent. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can help protect cells against damage from free radicals. Vitamin C supports the immune system, and helps with iron absorption. The body also needs it for wound healing, and repairing cartilage, teeth and bones.

    Folate

    • Six percent of the folate daily value is in a cup of jackfruit. Folate is required to form new cells. It is especially important for pregnant women, as it can help prevent birth defects.

    Riboflavin

    • Riboflavin is needed to maintain healthy skin and the nervous system. It also plays a role in metabolizing food. Jackfruit provides 11 percent of the daily value of Riboflavin.

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