The Rambutan is a tropical fruit which is native to Southeast Asia. Most believe that it orginated from Malaysia or Indonesia, although it has been present around the region for hundreds of years already. The fruit is quite unusual looking for those who are seeing it for the first time, because of it’s “hairy” red skin. Inside you will find translucent pulp wrapped around a seed. The pulp is the edible portion of the fruit and can be extremely sweet depending on the variety. The fruits are available seasonally, which is around August to November. Let us take a look at what nutritional value this delicious fruit offers us.
Effects on Immunity
As you can see above, save for it’s significant Vitamin C content, Rambutan is not all that nutritious, especially when compared to fruits like Mango, Papaya, Marang, Tamarind and Avocado which are just packed with vitamins and minerals.
It does contain trace amounts of other vitamins and minerals which is always helpful. It’s Potassium-Sodium Ratio is only about 4-1 as well so don’t count on it cancelling out the salty food you eat, unlike things like Kadyos and Bananas!
Vitamin C of course is an essential nutrient. It is water soluble meaning your body needs a daily supply. Without it, you cannot create the protein which makes up all parts of your body. It is also highly important in immunity, providing your cells with the ability to differentiate roles, as well as acting as an antioxidant.
COVID Resistance: Vitamin C helps in COVID infection in multiple ways. As an antioxidant, it binds to free radicals first, freeing up other Antioxidants like Glutathione, which protect the lungs specifically. It also allows for the cells of your adaptive immunity to protect you from variants of the virus.
Antioxidants: Rambutan Peel has shown to be immensely high in antioxidants such as Phenolic compounds and Tannins. They need to be extracted by frying in oil however.
Choose Organic
Rambutan is a crop that is sometimes grown conventionally, mostly using fertilizers, but sometimes also pesticides. In order for you to ensure that the Vitamin C from the rambutan is able to protect your body, it pays to make sure that you are eating organic produce.