The King of all Fruits with the Best Nutritional Value - But ....!?

While its smell has been likened to garbage, durian is prized for a distinctive taste that some compare to a mix of onions, sherry, almonds and cream cheese

Although durian fans are quick to praise the fruit's unique aroma and flavor, critics condemn this delicacy as repugnant. Thus, it is banned from many hotels, public transportation and airlines in Southeast Asia. During an April 2010 trip to Thailand, this reporter spotted durian sold whole and sliced at a number of outdoor Markets. Its smell was unmistakable; there's never a question when one is in durian territory.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Eating Durian

• Durian is a strong blood cleanser and a powerful aphrodisiac.
• The roots and leaves of durian are used for preparing traditional medicines for curing fevers and jaundice.
• The decoction prepared from leaves and fruits, is helpful for treating swellings and skin diseases.
• The rind of durian is burned and the ash is consumed by women after childbirth.
• Due to the high levels of amino acid tryptophan, durian is known to alleviate anxiety, depression and insomnia.
• By raising levels of serotonin in the brain, it helps in creating feeling of happiness.
• It is highly useful in lowering cholesterol.
• It is a good muscle builder, due to its high content of soft protein.
• Durian is a good source of vitamin C that helps in developing resistance against infectious agents and scavenges harmful free radicals.
• It contains simple sugars like fructose and sucrose and some simple fats that replenish energy and revitalize the body instantly. Hence, durian is highly effective as a supplement food for underweight children.
• Apart from iron, lack of folate can also lead to a type of anemia called pernicious anemia. Durian, being a good source of folate, helps in producing normal red blood cells (RBC).
• Durian aids in regulating blood sugar level, due to its rich manganese content.
• By promoting a normal appetite, durian helps in producing hydrochloric acid in the stomach, thereby assisting in proper digestion of food.
• Packed with nutrients, durian helps in increasing energy, endurance, mental clarity and cellular health.
• It enhances libido, thereby revitalizing the desire for sexual intimacy.