Hypertension remains a major problem worldwide despite various efforts by health care professionals to lessen this global burden. According to World Health Organization, an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension, most (two-thirds) living in low- and middle-income countries. Unhealthy diets (excessive salt consumption, a diet high in saturated fat and trans fats, low intake of fruits and vegetables), physical inactivity, consumption of tobacco and alcohol, being overweight or obese, family history of hypertension, age over 65 years and co-existing diseases are among the major contributors to the increased incidence of hypertension. Proper management of hypertension is important as it is among the main risk factors for other cardiovascular diseases.
Durian (Durio zibethinus), labeled as the “King of Fruits”, is a large, spiky, greenish-brown fruit that is well-loved in its native Southeast Asia. The fruit is known for its strong odor when ripe, which can vary depending on the variety of durian. One of the most nutritious fruits and very high in nutrients and plant compounds compared to other fruits. Durians have heart-healthy monounsaturated fats which help to lower your level of bad LDL cholesterol.
Contrary to the popular belief that durian can raise body temperature and elevate blood pressure, it’s “NOT TRUE”. You will not have a big spike in your cholesterol level after eating durian. In fact, this king of fruits has good monounsaturated fats that can lower your harmful cholesterol levels and moderate your blood pressure. Cholesterol is only found in animal products. Fruits, vegetables, grains and all other plant foods do not have any cholesterol at all and can only be found in foods containing saturated fats such as red meats, seafood and dairy products. But feasting on this highly nutritious fruit will certainly not benefit your waistline because a cup of durian gives 357 calories (according to Healthline). Durian may be a very good source of nutrients, but it is also high in terms of calories and carbohydrates thus consumption must still be in moderation.
Eating durian at one sitting is enough but because durian can become so addictive, people tend to eat more than they should. This is the FACT “Eating foods incredibly high in healthy nutrients is VERY GOOD but eating them in high consumption is NOT GOOD”. It is not good to have TOO MUCH of anything. MODERATION is still a MUST!
AA VI Angelyn P. Intal, RND
References:
- Prevalence of Hypertension and Risk factor.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension
- What is Durian and calories content?