Pomelo fruit: beneficial properties and harm.

Health benefits, medicinal qualities

Pomelo is an excellent fruit that will appeal to almost everyone, both adults and children.

It has not only a pleasant citrus taste, but also low calorie content, which will undoubtedly be appreciated by both people losing weight and maintaining their weight. You can eat pomelo as an independent mono-product, or as part of fruit salads, decorations for ice cream, making candied fruits... Pomelo is a seasonal fruit; it appears in our stores in the winter, which, of course, has a positive effect on its use as part of “winter diets,” and

vitamin supplement

in winter.

You can learn how to choose a pomelo, how to use it, as well as the health benefits and harms of pomelo by reading the article.

Pomelo - what kind of fruit?

Pomelo is an exotic citrus fruit native to China. Pomelo also grows actively in Malaysia, Israel, Vietnam and Thailand.

Pomelo has several names: Pomelo, Pompelmus and Shaddock. By the way, Shedok Pomelo is named after the captain of the English ship Shaddock, who brought pomelo seeds to the West Indies in the 17th century from the Malaysian archipelago.

The pomelo fruit is the largest among all citrus fruits. The average weight of a fruit is from one to three kilograms; these are the fruits that are best stored and transported to other countries. Although, in the growing area, the weight of a pomelo can reach ten or more kilograms.

Outwardly, the pomelo resembles a grapefruit, while it is somewhat larger, also distinguished by a softer and more pleasant taste. The fruit is round, slightly elongated towards the stalk, which makes it look a little like a huge pear.

The fruit is covered with a thick peel, the thickness of which can reach two centimeters, which ensures high safety of the fruit.

The color of ripe fruits ranges from pale green to yellow. The fruit pulp is less juicy than other citrus fruits. Also, the juiciness of the fruit depends on its stage of ripening: the younger the fruit, the more juice it contains. An overripe fruit has a “drier” and tougher pulp structure, which also affects the taste. Due to the dryness of the fruit, it will be extremely difficult to squeeze juice out of the pomelo.

How to choose Pomelo

When choosing Pomelo, there are no special secrets or subtleties. Usually it is enough to carefully examine and touch the fruit to draw a conclusion about its ripeness.

At the same time, do not forget that for long-term preservation, and the delivery time from the country of origin to our stores can stretch from several days to several weeks, the fruits, as a rule, are collected slightly unripe and processed by special means, and wrapped in film or mesh for safety.

However, citrus fruits do not have the ability to ripen, as does, for example, tomatoes. Therefore, there is no need to store such citrus at home in the hope that it will ripen soon.

And so, when choosing a broom, you need to pay attention to the following:

1. Take a close look at the fruit you want to purchase. Its skin should be dense, elastic, without dents, rotten or broken spots, and without thickening. Ideally, the crust will have a uniform color.
2. Feel the fruit with your hands. If to the touch you feel the presence of strange thickenings on the body of the fetus, or in some places it is pressed under pressure, it is better to refuse such a purchase.
3. Rock the fruit in your hands. If it seems to you that it is too light, and this can be compared with other pomelo specimens, this indicates that the fruit is not ripe, and you will most likely buy a thick crust framing an unripe fruit instead of tasty and juicy citrus. The larger and heavier the fruit, the greater the likelihood of its ripening, which has a positive effect on the taste of the purchased Pomelo.

Health benefits and harms of pomelo

When using pomelo, despite the obvious advantages, there are also contraindications. For example, due to the fact that pomelo is a citrus fruit, its fruit contains a lot of acid, which is contraindicated for people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and high acidity.

Basic chemical composition of pomelo

Calorie content – ​​from 25 to 39 calories per 100 grams of peeled fruit slices.

Mineral composition:
potassium up to 235 mg/100 g
calcium 26-27 mg/100 g
phosphorus 22-26 mg
iron 0.3-0.5 mg
sodium 1 mg
ethacrynic acid 20-25 mg

Vitamin complex:
vitamin C 30-53 mg/100 g
beta-carotene up to 30 mg/100 g
vitamin B1 0.04-0.07 mg/100 g
vitamin B2 0.02 mg/100 g
vitamin B5 0.2-0.3 mg/100 g

Positive properties of pomelo

The basis of the beneficial properties of pomelo that bring health benefits is its mineral and vitamin composition. Large amounts of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin C when consuming pomelo bring benefits to our body:

1. Normalizes blood pressure and the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
2. The presence of potassium improves the condition of hypertension and prevents the formation of blood clots in blood vessels.
3. Natural vitamin C has a positive effect on strengthening immune system, reducing the likelihood of colds and viral diseases. Especially in the winter season.
4. Eating pomelo increases vitality, improves mood, and helps fight depression and improves performance.
5. The presence of calcium helps strengthen bone tissue, promotes wound healing, and accelerates the healing process in long-term illnesses.
6. As mentioned earlier, pomelo is an excellent assistant for losing weight and carrying out fasting days and mono diets. The low calorie content and increased metabolism will be appreciated by everyone who is losing weight.
7. Pomelo also has a little secret: it is an excellent aphrodisiac that improves intimate function and increases sexual activity in men. In addition, consuming this citrus during a hangover will reduce the symptoms of poisoning and quickly bring you back to normal.
8. The fruit is also useful for older people, who, like no one else, need additional portions of vitamins.

In what cases should pomelo not be used?

Despite the obvious benefits of eating pomelo, in some cases the fruit can cause harm to the body.

Pomelo should not be used:

1. In case you are allergic to citrus fruits.
2. It should not be consumed by nursing mothers: you may not yet know how your child’s body reacts to citrus fruits.
3. Pomelo should not be given to children under one year of age - the child may be allergic to citrus fruits. Older children are also given pomelo in small quantities, for the same reason.
4. Avoid eating pomelo if, after eating, you feel heaviness in the stomach, heartburn, or other unpleasant sensations.
5. You should not use pomelo if you suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, stomach ulcers, or increased stomach acidity.

How to use pomelo

Usage options depend on your fantasies.

Pomelo can be consumed either in its peeled form, like a regular tangerine, orange or grapefruit, or used in various salads, or in the preparation of meat dishes that contain citrus fruits.

Pomelo is often used to decorate ice cream and sorbets; it is great for making fruit fondue (the sweet and sour taste of pomelo goes well with melted chocolate).

Before consuming pomelo, you must first peel it and remove the film that covers the pomelo slices.

Cleaning a broom is not as difficult as it seems at first glance.

First of all, it is necessary to remove the protective film from the fruit in which each fruit is packaged individually.

After this, carefully cut off the upper, elongated part of the fruit with a knife.

Next, you also need to make cuts with careful movements right along the peel along the entire fruit, as was done in the photograph. If you see that the area near the stalk (the elongated upper part of the fruit) is slightly rotten or damaged, cut off a little more.

As a result, after you have made cuts throughout the fruit, it can be easily peeled (also see photo of the pomelo).

After you remove the peel, the fruit easily, or almost easily, breaks into two parts.

To simplify the process, watch the video in which I explain in detail, and most importantly, show how to quickly and easily clean Pomelo.

As you can see, you can peel this citrus fruit without any difficulties.

As I already said, Pomelo can be consumed either in the form of peeled slices, just like regular tangerines or oranges, or you can prepare a variety of dishes from it.

I can offer you several options for pomelo salad recipes

Fruit salad with pomelo:

Ingredients: banana – 1 pc., kiwi – 1 pc., apple – 1 medium size, tangerine – 1 pc., pomelo – half the fruit, yogurt – one glass.

Apple - peel, cut into cubes, place on the bottom of the salad bowl. Drizzle one to two tablespoons of yogurt on top.

Banana – peel the shell, cut into slices, place on top of the apple. Also add 1 - 2 tablespoons of yogurt.

Kiwi – peel, cut into slices, place on top of the banana. Drizzle with yogurt.

Mandarin duck – peel, arrange the slices in another layer of lettuce. Add yogurt again.

Pomelo - peel, remove the skin from the segments, leaving only the juicy part of the segment, divide the segment into small pieces and place on top of the salad.

You can eat this salad with pomelo right away. You can’t keep it for a long time, since the fruit gives juice, and the salad, if left standing for a long time, especially at room temperature, can turn into a sweet mess.

The video below shows one of the options for fruit salads with pomelo:

Salad with pomelo and smoked chicken:

Ingredients: 1 medium-sized smoked breast, half a pomelo, a spoonful of crushed nuts, a few lettuce leaves, mayonnaise or olive oil (to taste).

Tear the chicken breast into small pieces, you can cut them into cubes.

We peel the pomelo slices from the film and divide them into small pieces.

Tear the lettuce leaves into small pieces.

Mix all this, season with mayonnaise or olive oil. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.

This salad is suitable for any feast, and for a regular lunch with the whole family.

Salad with pomelo and shrimp:

Ingredients: shrimp – 15 – 20 pieces, depending on size, half a pomelo fruit, 2 eggs, olive oil, a little lemon juice.

Boil the eggs, peel and cut into strips.

Boil the shrimp and remove the shell.

We clean the pomelo and divide the slices into small pieces.

Mix all this, add a little lemon juice, one teaspoon will be enough, season with olive oil. If desired, the salad can be decorated with mint or lettuce leaves.

Pomelo as an independent product

Pomelo is also perfectly used in its usual form: peeled, peeled, seeds removed, and eaten, receiving not only pleasure, vitamins, but also a very small amount of calories.

Pomelo can also be consumed during fasting days

Due to its low calorie content, pomelo, like many fruits, is excellent for fasting days and short mono-diets.

Just in case, I remind you that no matter how much you want to lose weight, any mono diet should not last more than three days. It is imperative to stop the mono diet if you feel unwell, your health has deteriorated, weakness and malaise appear.

Do you like citrus fruits? I am sure that many will answer “yes”. I don’t know about you, but in addition to the usual tangerines and oranges, I also like other types of citrus fruits. For example, pomelo, the benefits and harms of which are the subject of research by scientists.

This large fruit, similar to a throwing ball, although not as sweet and juicy as, for example, an orange, has a pleasant taste. The structure and taste resembles grapefruit, but ripe pomelo, unlike grapefruit, does not taste bitter. So if you haven’t eaten grapefruit because of its bitterness, try pomelo, because it’s tasty and also healthy. Read on and you will find out what the benefits of overseas fruit are for the body, whether it can be given to children, how to choose the right one and whether there are any contraindications.

Where does the pomelo fruit grow?

The homeland of pomelo is the islands of Polynesia and the Malaysian archipelago. Later, this plant came to Asia Minor, China and Thailand, where it became quite popular. In China, where pomelo grows in large quantities, the fruit is often given as a gift, which symbolizes well-being and prosperity. And the whole world learned about the pomelo after it was brought to Europe.

If you suddenly come across a fruit with the name “shaddock”, know that this is not some kind of new product, it is a pomelo. So it is sometimes called in honor of the navigator Shaddock, thanks to him the world learned about this fruit.

Pomelo is an evergreen tree up to 15 meters high with a spherical crown. The leaves are large, the flowers are white, with a diameter of 3 to 7 cm, solitary or from two to ten in an inflorescence. The fruit is covered with a thick peel, divided into large segments, compacted with a rigid septum; inside each segment there may be seeds. The pomelo fruit is the largest among citrus fruits. The weight of the fetus can reach 10 kg, diameter - 30 cm (source: Wikipedia). More modest specimens weighing up to 2 kilograms are sent for export to Russia.

Pomelo comes in different varieties and the peel differs in color - green, yellow, pink-red. The pulp is also of different colors - from white to red and the taste is slightly different.

Pomelo - benefits and harm

The Chinese know exactly how pomelo is useful - they prepare all kinds of medicines from it, from all parts of the fruit, and use it in the treatment of a variety of diseases. Its chemical composition confirms that this fruit is worth paying attention to.

Pomelo composition and calorie content:

• vitamins - vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamins B1, B2, B5, B9
• minerals - potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, sodium
• other useful material - essential oils, flavonoids, limonoids, rich in fiber

What are the health benefits of pomelo?

1. Essential oils and vitamin C, which pomelo is rich in, strengthen the immune system, which helps in the fight against various viruses. It helps not only as a preventive measure, it helps fight the disease, so it is advisable to include fruits in the diet in the autumn-winter period, when there is a danger of colds and flu. By the way, it is precisely at this time, when we are experiencing a cold period, that in Thailand, India, China, and Israel the weather is favorable and the pomelo is simply saturated with useful substances. So it is more useful for us to buy this healthy citrus in our cold season - autumn and winter.
2. Pomelo juice tones, invigorates and gives additional energy to our body, which is also important in our cold season. This is facilitated by both vitamin C, which supports the work nervous system, as well as essential oils that affect our emotional state. Therefore, pomelo is often classified as an antidepressant product.
3. It is useful to consume the fruit for the prevention of arthrosis, osteochondrosis, and joint diseases, and this is again due to the large amount of vitamin C it contains - it ensures the synthesis of collagen, which is important for cartilage tissue.
4. Vitamin C helps to better absorb the iron contained in the fruit, which makes this fruit a useful product for the prevention of anemia.
5. Everyone knows about the benefits of vitamin A, which is not only a strong antioxidant, which is important for our immunity. It affects our vision, is responsible for the youth of cells, and is beneficial for the skin and bone formation. Pomelo contains beta-carotene, which, under the action of digestive enzymes, is converted into vitamin A. The good thing about beta-carotene is that it can enter our body in any dosage, nothing bad will happen. It is stored in the subcutaneous layer, and our body uses it for synthesis when it is needed. But vitamin A, if taken in tablets, can cause an overdose, which is not very good for the body. Therefore, it is better to replenish vitamin A with foods containing beta-carotene, including pomelo.
6. Preventing cataracts and improving visual acuity in the dark - a pomelo will also help with this.
7. Potassium makes this fruit beneficial for the heart and the entire vascular system, fights vascular atherosclerosis, and normalizes blood pressure.
8. Pomelo is rich in fiber, which means that the pulp of the fruit cleanses the human body well and has a positive effect on the digestive system.
9. The enormous benefit of the fruit is that it is a powerful diuretic fruit. In terms of this effect, it is not inferior even to watermelon, which is rightfully recognized as the best berry for cleansing the kidneys of toxins.

Benefits for men

• The content of essential oils in the fruit makes it a natural aphrodisiac, due to which a man’s sexual desire for the opposite sex increases.
• Studies of the fruit have shown that the pulp of the fruit improves the process of spermatogenesis. It has long been believed among the Chinese that if a man is given a broom, it means they wish him male power and longevity.
• Vitamin C and antioxidants strengthen blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow in the pelvic organs. This has a beneficial effect on erectile function.
• Antioxidants are able to remove toxins from the body, so this type of citrus is considered the best remedy to relieve hangover.

Beneficial properties of fruit for women

• In addition to the above-mentioned health benefits, I would like to say separately about such important elements contained in the pulp and peel of the fruit, such as flavonoids, limonoids, and essential oils. They fight pancreatic dysfunction, and also prevent the development of cancer cells in the mammary gland and alleviate the condition after chemotherapy or surgery.
• There are studies that the beneficial substances contained in the peel of the fruit have a beneficial effect on women Health, eliminating excess estrogen. Apparently it’s not for nothing that the Chinese use all parts of this plant.
• Pomelo is rich in calcium and phosphorus, and this makes this fruit useful for women during menopause, when there is a threat of osteoporosis. Regular consumption of fruit pulp will strengthen bones and promote the healing of fractures.
• The fruit is interesting for women because it can be used in cosmetology. The juice and pulp nourish and moisturize the skin and smooth out wrinkles. You can wipe your face with a pomelo slice, instead of washing your face in the morning, you can make masks, adding other components depending on your skin type.

Is there any benefit for pregnant women?

The fruit is beneficial for pregnant women, and can be included in the diet throughout the entire period of pregnancy:

• folic acid has a beneficial effect on fetal development.
• Phosphorus and calcium are useful for strengthening the bones of not only women, but also for the proper development of the skeletal system and muscle tissue of the child.
• The expectant mother should not suffer from colds; vitamin C, which fruits are rich in, will help in maintaining immunity.
• The diuretic properties of the fruit will help cope with edema, which often occurs during pregnancy.
• pomelo is useful for pregnant women early stages, as it helps fight toxicosis.

Is pomelo good for weight loss?

I said that pomelo is a low-calorie fruit and therefore it is useful for weight loss. If we compare it with a similar citrus - grapefruit, then pomelo is sweeter, but it contains less sugar than grapefruit, which accordingly affects the calorie content.

Fiber improves metabolism, which is also important for weight loss.

The pulp of the fruit contains slow carbohydrates that take longer to digest; a few slices of pomelo are enough to saturate the body and suppress hunger.

Studies have also shown that the enzymes found in this type of citrus fruit break down fats, which means that they can, or rather should, be included in the weight loss menu.

Benefits for children

Knowing about the above-mentioned beneficial properties of pomelo, we can safely say that this citrus is also useful for children:

• copes well with vitamin deficiency and will make it easier to endure the cold season;
• Children are often overweight, so replace desserts with pomelo, which converts proteins and fats into energy, this will only benefit the child;
• the pomelo will help with fatigue, lethargy, and drowsiness of the child;
• Phosphorus is another important element found in citrus. It will increase your child's intellectual abilities.

Pomelo for diabetes

Beneficial features pomelo is also needed for people with a diagnosis diabetes. With such a serious disease, a deficiency of one or another element can cause serious consequences.

1. In patients with this disease, blood flow is often slowed down, and this contributes to the accumulation of toxic products in the body's cells, and self-poisoning of the cells occurs. An increased dose of vitamin C, which acts as an antidote, helps solve this problem. But ascorbic acid in tablets is not so well absorbed, much worse than natural one, which means that taking an increased dose only through tablets is harmful to health, and sometimes even dangerous.
2. In diabetes, the vessels of the retina of the eyeball are damaged, the body's ability to resist various types of infections decreases, wound healing occurs more slowly - Vitamin A helps to maintain these functions.
3. In diabetes, potassium is very important, as it has the ability to convert glucose into glycogen, potassium reduces the symptoms of diabetes - thirst, numbness of the limbs, frequent urination, skin abscesses. Often people with diabetes have a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism, and this, as a consequence, a disorder of potassium metabolism. Although an excess of potassium is also dangerous to health.

All of the above makes this citrus a truly useful product for patients with diabetes, but this is a serious disease, so before using anything in your diet, especially in any increased doses, you should definitely consult with your doctor.

Consultation with a doctor is also necessary for other chronic diseases, because in addition to its benefits, pomelo can harm our body if the existing contraindications are not taken into account.

Pomelo is harmful to the body

Pomelo, in addition to its advantages, also has disadvantages that are important to know:

1. One of the important contraindications is that it can reduce the effect of certain medicines, and this may affect the effectiveness of treatment. Pomelo can also enhance the effect of some medications, and this is not just bad, it can be dangerous. Therefore, if you are taking any medications, be sure to consult with your doctor whether you can include pomelo in your diet.
2. Pediatricians do not recommend pomelo for children under 1.5 years of age due to possible allergies and high fiber content, so as not to disrupt the child’s digestion. Up to 3 years old, you can give no more than 50 grams per day 2 - 3 times a week. For preschoolers over 3 years old, up to 100 grams per day.
3. People with gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcers and gastritis should use pomelo with caution due to the acid content.
4. It is important for patients with nephritis and urolithiasis to know that pomelo pulp helps to activate the movement of deposits through the ureter.
5. It is possible to be allergic to this fruit, as well as to any other citrus fruits, so if you are prone to allergies and this is your first time trying this fruit, consume it in minimal doses to see how your body reacts.
6. For hepatitis, it is also not recommended to use pomelo.
7. A large amount of fiber is beneficial, but in some cases it can cause a strong laxative effect.

If you take into account all the contraindications, then pomelo will only be good for your health, which means you can safely enjoy its taste, include it in your menu more often, because its benefits are enormous.

How to choose a pomelo

• They say that the more aromatic the fruit, the tastier it is and, therefore, healthier, but this method of selection does not suit us, because in our supermarkets the pomelo is usually packed in film.
• Of two fruits of the same size, you need to choose the one that is heavier - such a fruit has a thinner rind and juicier pulp.
• It is also important to pay attention to the peel itself - it should be smooth, without dents and soft to the touch.

How to eat pomelo

It is important to know about the shelf life - a whole, untouched pomelo can be stored at room temperature for about a month, but if you have peeled it, it is better to eat it immediately, or store it for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, no more.

There are no special tricks on how to eat a pomelo - you need to remove the peel, membranes and enjoy the fresh, tasty pulp. And, of course, it is most useful when fresh. But in countries where there is more than enough of this fruit, jam, marmalade, and various sauces are made from it.

Chefs love to add pomelo to fruit salads, desserts, and also to dishes containing meat and seafood.

The peel can be used to make candied fruits, added to tea, it is also useful.

Pomelo - benefits and harms, this is what today’s article is about and I hope the information was interesting and informative. I think that it is necessary to know about the product, which is already listed on the shelves of our supermarkets, especially since there are benefits for children, pregnant women and people suffering from diabetes, as well as for weight loss. Enjoy this delicious, healthy and largest citrus fruit in the world.

And in the video, watch an interesting recipe with pomelo.

Elena Kasatova. See you by the fireplace.

Each of us sometimes wants to eat something tasty and exotic. We often eat citrus fruits, and... These products can no longer be called exotic. Not long ago, a fruit called pomelo appeared, otherwise it is called pamela.

Appearance

In China, the homeland of pomelo, the benefits and harms have been known for a long time. Outwardly, it resembles a huge orange. The color of the peel can vary from pale green to bright orange. The shape of the fruit can be round or pear-shaped. Its peel is thick, the flesh is not very juicy, sweet with slight notes of bitterness. The interior can range in color from white-green to reddish-orange. The weight of the product on the shelves of our stores can reach a kilogram. On tropical trees you can find fruits up to 10 kg.

Of the citrus varieties, this fruit is the largest in size. Its advantage over all others is that it is stored for a long time. At room temperature it can last for about a month, in the refrigerator - longer.

Beneficial features

During the period of vitamin shortages, it became very popular among our compatriots. Let's take a closer look at pomelo - the benefits and harms of this fruit.

Its benefit, first of all, lies in the fact that it contains vitamins, trace elements and minerals in large quantities.

Vitamins and minerals

Among the vitamins it contains:

• vitamin C,
• vitamin A,
• B vitamins,
• Vitamin PP, rarely found in food products.

It also contains minerals: potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium. All these beneficial substances help strengthen the immune system during flu and cold epidemics. Ascorbic acid is the main remedy for colds. Potassium helps normalize the functioning of the heart muscle. Calcium is indispensable for nails and hair, helps regulate the functioning of the unequal system. Its use helps fight stress and depression. Phosphorus contributes to normal brain function. Pamela fruit: benefits and harm are familiar in all countries where it grows. The amount of vitamins, and therefore the benefits of the product, reaches its maximum values ​​starting from February.

Other substances included in the composition

This fruit is irreplaceable not only because it contains a large amount of vitamins. It contains substances called limonoids. They help stop the process of cancer cell division. Therefore, this product can help in the fight against cancer. If you eat this fruit in the summer, the antioxidants it contains will help maintain youthful skin and protect it from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

The large amount of fiber contained in the pulp has a beneficial effect on the intestines and stomach. And “films”, which we often do not use for food, can become an excellent cleanser for the intestines. Their effects are similar to those of bran.

The product is useful for those who suffer from low stomach acidity. Thanks to its natural acid content, it helps speed up the production of enzymes. In tropical countries, it is consumed with meat or fish to speed up digestion. Pamela fruit - the benefits and harms are incomparable. The harm caused by eating this fruit is relative to the benefits and is determined by the amount of the product eaten.

Another useful property is the low calorie content of the fruit. Thanks to its composition, this product will perfectly complement any diet. 100 grams of its pulp contain only 39 kcal. The content of lipolytic enzymes helps to lose weight more effectively.

Not only the fruit pulp is useful, but also its other parts. The peel, thanks to its high content of essential oils, helps to tone and strengthen the skin. A decoction of the leaves of the tree will help prevent stomach ulcers.

Consumption of the product helps in the treatment of atherosclerosis, hypertension, asthma, and promotes saturation with folic acid, which is necessary during pregnancy. With regular use, it increases performance and improves vitality.

Harm to the fruit

Pamela: benefit and harm - which qualities are more? All of the above positive characteristics are characteristic only of fully ripened fruit. To avoid consuming a useless product, you need to know the rules of choice. The pomelo should be slightly soft and the skin shiny. The smell of the fruit should be pleasant. If there is a choice, it is better to take heavier, medium-sized fruits. They will have more pulp.

This fruit can only cause negative health effects if you are allergic to citrus fruits. Also, people suffering from diseases of the stomach and duodenum, colitis, hepatitis and nephritis in the acute stage should not get carried away with such exotic things. When consumed in large quantities, a laxative effect is possible. In people with high stomach acidity, excessive consumption of the fruit can cause heartburn.

Pomelo (Citrus maxima) is a tall evergreen tree with large white flowers and oblong leaves.

This tree of the citrus genus blooms almost all year round, and already 6-7 months after flowering, large round or pear-shaped fruits form on it. The weight of a fully ripe fruit most often ranges from 1 to 2 kg, but can reach 10 kg. The peel is very thick, especially where it attaches to the stalk. The pomelo tree originally grew in China, but over time it spread throughout Southeast Asia. Today, the fruit is cultivated in India, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam and even Israel.

There are several types of pomelo: pink, red and white. They differ from each other in shape, size, color of peel and pulp, and most importantly, taste.

The pulp of ripe fruits contains all kinds of micro- and macroelements, as well as pectin, vitamins A, B, C, fiber and essential oils. In addition, the fruit is rich in enzymes that break down proteins and fats, as well as folic acid, which is vital for pregnant women.

Beneficial features:

• normalization of blood pressure and heart rate;
• strengthening the immune system, improving overall well-being, accelerating the recovery process for colds of a viral or infectious nature;
• reducing the risk of tumor occurrence and spread;
• strengthening bones and accelerating the healing of fractures;
• increased mood, vitality, performance and attention;
• normalization of the kidneys, intestines and stomach;
• assistance in losing weight;
• relief from coughing, including asthmatic;
• strengthening teeth, reducing bleeding gums;
• increased hemoglobin;
• restoring skin elasticity, moisturizing it and protecting it from winter cold.

Rules for selection and storage

The pomelo finally ripens in February. By purchasing it at this time, you can be sure that the fruit is fresh and there will be no harm from it. However, some features should always be taken into account.

If the fruit is yellow on one side and greenish on the other, it is not yet ripe. Brown spots on its surface indicate that it will soon deteriorate.

• The peel of a ripe fruit should be smooth, shiny, and uniform in color.
• the fruit should be elastic to the touch and not too soft;
• the richer the citrus aroma, the riper the fruit;
• Heavy, small-sized fruits are more juicy, and their peel is less thick.

Cleaning a pomelo is much easier and faster than an orange or grapefruit. To do this, use a sharp knife to make several vertical cuts about 7 mm deep on its surface (from top to bottom). Then carefully remove the peel and, having cleared the pulp from the hard and bitter film, disassemble it into slices.

Unpeeled ripe fruit can be stored without harm for 2-3 weeks at room temperature, peeled - no more than 3 days in the refrigerator.

Application in medicine

In the absence of contraindications, pomelo pulp and juice can improve health:

• 3 slices every morning on an empty stomach will strengthen the heart muscle;
• 200 ml of juice daily before bed will restore the structure of hair and nails, noticeably smooth out fine wrinkles, and also cleanse the kidneys and liver of toxins;
• 100 ml of juice combined with the same amount of warm water for gargling will quickly relieve a sore throat;
• peeled pulp and seasoned with vegetable oil will help reduce cholesterol;
• Juice heated to 40 degrees is an excellent expectorant and will also help with a strong cough.

Cosmetic properties

Pulp and juice for external use will help restore freshness to the skin.

Mask for oily skin

Mash a piece of pomelo and combine with a teaspoon of kefir. Squeeze the mixture lightly and thoroughly wipe your face with the released liquid. Wait until the skin dries, and then apply the remaining paste to it for 15 minutes. Rinse off the mask with cool water.

Moisturizing mask

Combine the crushed fruit pulp with honey and lemon juice, then apply to the face for 15 minutes. For one piece of pomelo you need to take 1 tsp. honey and lemon juice. It is better to make such a mask before going to bed at night, and wash it off with green tea. There are no contraindications for its use. This homemade cosmetics recipe is suitable for all skin types.

Pomelo for weight loss

Despite its low calorie content (38 kcal per 100 g), pomelo quickly makes you feel full. Its regular consumption not only normalizes the digestive process, but also promotes the rapid breakdown of fats. That is why a diet that includes pomelo is strict but effective.

Acceptable diet: durum wheat pasta, cereals, baked meat (chicken or beef), fresh or vegetable stew, unsweetened fruits and as much water as possible.

A sample menu for the day looks like this:

• Morning - half a pomelo, 50 g of hard cheese, unsweetened coffee or tea.
• Lunch – baked chicken breast with vegetables.
• Afternoon snack – half a pomelo, boiled egg.
• Dinner – boiled vegetables, half a pomelo, herbal tea.

The duration of this is enough strict diet should not exceed 14 days, since further adherence to it will only bring harm.

Use in cooking

Pomelo is used in cooking not only as one of the components of fruit salads. This exotic fruit goes well with meat. It can also become the basis for amazingly tasty jam.

Pomelo and chicken breast salad recipe

Ingredients: pomelo pulp, chicken breast baked in foil, lettuce, hard cheese, lemon, pine nuts, salt and black pepper.

Preparation:

1. Cut the breast into small cubes.
2. Peel the pomelo slices from the film and disassemble them into large pieces.
3. Tear the lettuce leaves with your hands.
4. Coarsely grate the cheese.
5. Combine the ingredients, season the salad with spices, sprinkle with lemon juice and sprinkle with pine nuts.

Jam recipe

Ingredients: fruit pulp – 350 g, granulated sugar – 300 g.

Preparation:

1. Peel the film from the slices and cut into small pieces.
2. Cover with granulated sugar and leave for a day to release the juice.
3. Heat the jam, bring to a boil and pour into sterilized jars.

Harm and contraindications

The harm from eating pomelo is so insignificant that it could not even be mentioned. But some categories of people should completely avoid the fruit or at least reduce its amount in the diet to a minimum:

• for people who are allergic to citrus fruits, pomelo will do nothing but harm: rashes, swelling of the throat, attacks of suffocation, etc.;
• for stomach ulcers, high acidity, and heartburn - citrus fruits are contraindicated;
• Pregnant women do not have to completely give up the juicy and healthy delicacy, but it is not advisable to eat more than 3-5 slices of it per day;
• hepatitis, bronchial asthma, colitis, diabetes mellitus, nephritis - all these diseases are a reason for prior consultation with your doctor.

However, completely healthy people should not overuse pomelo, because in addition to it there are many other healthy fruits, including citrus fruits.

Recently, unusual large fruits began to appear on the shelves of markets and shops. This is a pomelo or pamela, sometimes called pompelmus, sheddock. It immediately won the hearts of people with its delicate taste and pleasant aroma. What is this? Where did the fruit come from? Let's figure it out together.

Pomelo fruit. It is believed that it appeared in China (sometimes Malaysia is considered its homeland), only at the end of the 17th century it first came to Asia, Indonesia, and then appeared in Europe. In its historical homeland it is still recognized as a symbol of prosperity, prosperity, prosperity. It is customary to present it as an expensive gift. Maybe that's why the Chinese kept them away from foreigners.

Pomelo hybrid or not

Many people consider pomelo to be simply very large, but it is a separate group of citrus fruits. Pomelo is not a hybrid, but a completely independent fruit that is gaining increasing popularity.

The tree is evergreen, reaches a height of 15 meters, and produces crops all year round. The citrus has a thick, dense four-centimeter peel, colored light green, yellow, and pinkish. Weighs from one kilogram to six to ten kilograms.

Types of pomelo:

• Red broom. This variety has fruits with a pleasant bitterness, red flesh, sour taste, oval shape, reminiscent of a small grapefruit, greenish rind. By crossing a pomelo with a grapefruit.
• Pink. The inside of this type of fruit is juicy, pink in color, and has a sweetish taste.
• White. The fruit reaches impressive sizes. Shape, flesh white, sweet.

How many calories are in a pomelo?

It is small, per 100 grams of fruit pulp - 31 - 32 kilocalories, 35 - including the peel.

Calories in pomelo as a fruit:

• one bowl of fruit pulp contains 70 calories;
• when adding citrus to a salad, one serving will contain 29 calories;
• with daily consumption of 160 grams - 50.

In China, they use it in the preparation of desserts, thereby reducing the calorie content of dishes. Dried peel is also used in cakes and pastries as a flavoring agent.

In England they make marmalade from it. Due to its low energy value, pomela is a good substitute for expensive, fatty desserts.

Composition of the product

What is the composition of pomelo fruit?

The fruit is well protected. The pomelo peel is 2-4 centimeters thick, has a pleasant aroma, and contains bioflavonoids and essential oils. Under the skin of the fruit there is a white porous shell, in which there are 10-11 large slices of pulp.

100 grams of product contains:

• Proteins – 0.8 -1.0 g.
• Fats – 0 gr.
• Carbohydrates – 9.0-9.8 g.
• Dietary fiber – 2 gr.
• Water – 90 gr.

The energy ratio of BZHU is 7/2/92.

In addition to the main composition, the fruit contains micro and macroelements: potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, calcium, copper, manganese, zinc.

It amazes with its multivitamin complex: a large amount ascorbic acid, vitamins B12 (cyanocobalamin), B2 (riboflavin), B6 ​​(pyridoxine), B1 (thiamine), B9 (folic acid).

In addition, there are glycoside, limonin, pectin, lipase (an enzyme that breaks down fats). Although the energy value of pamelo is small, it is a unique product in many respects.

The product contains sugar, but at the same time it... What is the secret of this fruit?

What are the benefits of pomelo?

The fruit is useful for people suffering from heart disease - vascular diseases. Regular consumption strengthens the walls of the heart muscle, reduces the risk of myocardial infarction, and improves the contractile activity of the heart.

The presence of vitamins, including ascorbic acid, improves vascular elasticity, normalizes blood pressure, improves immunity, and helps fight viral respiratory infections.

Calcium strengthens bones, normalizes the nervous system, relieves depression and fatigue.

Brain function improves due to the presence of phosphorus.

Thanks to the properties of the pomelo fruit, it eliminates cholesterol plaques and improves blood circulation.

Shaddock is used to prevent the development of cancer, since limonoids inhibit the division of cancer cells. American scientists noticed that with constant consumption of the pulp there was a more pronounced effect than with taking medications.

Metabolism accelerates, so a diet that includes it is used for weight loss. Promotes the rapid breakdown of proteins and fats.

Useful during significant physical activity, as it gives a surge of energy.

Used for asthma, prolonged cough, tendency to edema.

The characteristics, beneficial properties, and composition of the fruit allow it to be used as a remedy against atherosclerosis.

Benefits for women

The benefits of pomelo for women are truly enormous. Bioflavonoids contained in pomelo peel have a positive effect on the hormonal levels of the fairer sex and normalize the amount of estrogen.

If you are not allergic to citrus fruits, the product reduces the manifestations of toxicosis and helps protect against panic before childbirth. Folic acid (necessary in the first weeks of pregnancy) helps to properly form the placenta and fetal tissue. In the last months of pregnancy, women experience increased thirst. Drinking juice in small quantities will help cope with this problem, while reducing the amount of fluid consumed. This will prevent swelling.

It is important for women to be beautiful and youthful at any age. Problems with stool are instantly reflected on the skin, so eating fruit pulp (contains fiber) helps cleanse the intestines of toxins. The skin becomes smooth and velvety.

The vitamins and minerals contained in pompelmus help strengthen the hair roots, making them beautiful and healthy.

Benefits for men

The fruit is good for men.

Eating pomelo increases sexual activity and is an excellent aphrodisiac. Scientists have proven a beneficial effect on the process of spermatogenesis in men.

In Asian countries, it is believed that if a man receives a sheddok as a gift, he is wished longevity and masculine strength. Thanks to vitamin C, blood vessels are strengthened and blood flow to the pelvic organs is increased. Eating the fruit has a beneficial effect on intimate function, so pamelo is used as a means for potency.

It’s also worth knowing that the pulp reduces the symptoms of poisoning, so it can be useful for fighting a hangover after a good feast.

Pomelo - what is harmful to health

As you can see, the benefits of consuming this citrus product are great, but pomelo can also cause harm.

Contraindications for consuming pomelo:

• Definitely not for those who are allergic to citrus fruits.
• With exacerbation of stomach and duodenal ulcers.
• For existing diseases: colitis, hepatitis, nephritis, urolithiasis, increased acidity with gastritis.

Considering that consumption can be harmful to human health, you need to consult a doctor to see if it is possible to eat it in your case.

You need to consume fruit correctly in small portions, especially if you are a beginner. Despite the fact that we know what it tastes like (sweet, pleasant), you don’t need to eat the whole fruit at one time, divide it into 4-5 meals.

You can eat it as an independent dish or as part of salads; the fruit can become a decoration on cakes and pastries; its peel is used.

In conclusion, I would like to say that if you see this exotic product in a store, don’t hesitate to buy it, because once you try it, it will be impossible to refuse.

Conclusion: eat healthy foods, expand your daily diet, but there should be moderation in everything. Be healthy!