Pomelo, the largest member of the citrus fruit family, is not only delightful in taste but also offers a plethora of health benefits. Some people confuse it with grapefruit as they have similar external appearances, however, pomelo is sweeter. The fruit is often consumed as a standalone snack or added to fruit salads for a burst of citrus flavour. We spoke to Dr Ekta Singhwal, MSc Dietician, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, who listed the health benefits of consuming pomelo fruit and side effects to be aware of.
Health Benefits Of Pomelo
Beyond its delightful taste, pomelo offers a range of health benefits attributed to its rich nutritional profile and unique phytochemicals. Dr Singhwal listed its health benefits as follows:
Vitamin C
Like other citrus fruits, pomelo is an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, promotes skin health, and aids in collagen production.
Fibre
According to a review by the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, pomelo is rich in insoluble fibre, which helps your stool get more volume and keeps you from being constipated. Consuming fibre-rich foods like pomelo may also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidants
Dr Singhwal said, “Pomelo contains various antioxidants, including flavonoids and limonoids, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.”
According to the Journal of Toxicology, pomelo may lower blood fat levels by blocking the body's complete absorption of cholesterol from the diet.
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Hydration
With its high water content, pomelo helps keep the body hydrated and aids in maintaining electrolyte balance, especially during hot weather or physical activity.
Anti Ageing Properties
If you are looking to add anti-ageing ingredients to your diet, here's pomelo to the rescue. This is due to its antioxidant properties, which help in preventing skin damage and promote a youthful appearance. Also, pomelo peel essential oil is high in antioxidants and can reduce the skin's synthesis of melanin, which may help prevent sunspots and discolouration, as stated in Molecules.
Potential Side Effects
While pomelo offers numerous health benefits, it may also pose certain risks and side effects, particularly when consumed in excessive amounts or combination with certain medications. Here are some of its side effects, as listed by the expert:
Drug Interactions
“Pomelo contains compounds known as furanocoumarins, which can interfere with the metabolism of certain medications by inhibiting enzymes in the liver. This can lead to increased levels of drugs in the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse effects or reducing the efficacy of medications”, added Dr Singhwal.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to pomelo, particularly if they have existing allergies to citrus fruits. Symptoms of citrus allergies may include itching, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.
Also Read: From Clearing Acne to Exfoliation: Here's Why You Should Use Grapefruit For Your Skin
Gastrointestinal Upset
Eating large amounts of pomelo or consuming it on an empty stomach may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gas, or diarrhoea, due to its high fibre content.
Bottomline
Dr Singhwal concluded, “Adding pomelo to your diet can help you reap multiple benefits ranging from boosting immunity to regulating blood pressure. However, make sure to consume pomelo in moderation and be aware of any potential interactions with medications or allergies. As with any food or dietary supplement, consulting with a healthcare professional can help ensure the safe and enjoyable consumption of pomelo as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before adding anything to your diet, especially if you are dealing with any health issues.]