Nutrition in Fuyu Persimmon


 by Jill Corleone, RDN, LD

The fuyu persimmon, also known as the Japanese persimmon, is the national fruit of Japan, although it originated in China. The fuyu persimmon has a bright orange skin and is eaten like an apple.

The fuyu persimmon, also known as the Japanese persimmon, is the national fruit of Japan, although it originated in China. The fuyu persimmon has a bright orange skin and is eaten like an apple. Because it is not as astringent as other varieties of persimmon, the fuyu persimmon is becoming more and more popular in the United States. Knowing the nutritional value of the fuyu persimmon can help you determine how it fits your healthy diet.

Calories

The fuyu persimmon may be higher in calories than some fruits, but still makes a low-calorie choice. One fuyu persimmon 2.5 inches in diameter contains 118 calories. By comparison, a 2.75-inch apple contains 81 calories. Including persimmons in your diet, with their high water and fiber content, can help satisfy your appetite without costing too many calories, which can help control your weight.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

Most calories in persimmon come from its carbohydrate content. On fuyu persimmon contains 31 g of carbohydrates and 6 g of fiber. Carbohydrates provide your body with energy, and should make up 45 percent to 65 percent of your calories. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate your body cannot digest. Persimmons are a high-fiber food, providing 24 percent of your daily value, or recommended daily needs. The fiber in the persimmon slows digestion, helping to control your hunger. In addition, including more fiber in your diet lowers your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Protein and Fat

The fuyu persimmon is not a significant source of protein or fat. One fruit contains 0.9 g of protein and 0.3 g of total fat. Both protein and fat are essential nutrients your body needs to function properly. A healthy diet should include 10 percent to 35 percent of its calories from protein, and 20 percent to 35 percent of its calories from fat.

Vitamins and Minerals

The fuyu persimmon can also help you meet some of your vitamin and mineral needs. One fruit contains 270 mg of potassium. Potassium-rich foods can help lower blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. The persimmon is also high in vitamin C and vitamin A. One fruit contains 12.6 mg of vitamin C, meeting 21 percent of your daily value, and 2,733 IU of vitamin A, meeting 55 percent of your daily value. Both vitamins A and C are antioxidants that protect your cells against oxidation, and may reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer.

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