Unlike tomato or banana, which the pronunciation by each might be associated with the region of the world in which one resides, I defer to dictionary.com to settle the debate on the pronunciation of pomelo. It is pronounced with the emphasis on “pom” versus often heard “pa-mel-loh.” What is not debatable is that it is the largest of the citrus fruits. Pomelo’s Latin name reflects that perfectly: Citrus maxima.
Pomelos are beginning to make appearances in markets everywhere now that they are in season. Although it looks like a grapefruit on steroids, it is sweeter and has a unique flavor. It is refreshing when added to a salad, adds a pleasant tang atop fish, and is a healthy way to top waffles, pancakes, or oatmeal. It can also be added to a smoothie for a citrus burst that is neither too sweet nor sour. Although it is a fabulous accompaniment, this citrus sensation can be eaten solo; simply peel away its thick rind and separate the juicy flesh of the segments from the skin, which you can discard, and pop the flavor burst right into your mouth. I enjoy the slightly sweet tangy segments on their own, not just for the taste but for the health benefits as well.
Just one pomelo supplies four times the daily recommended dose of vitamin C, as well as a variety of other vitamins and nutrients. In addition to that power burst of vitamin C, a single fruit provides protein, carbs, and fiber as well as riboflavin, thiamine, copper, and potassium.
Let me break down how the nutrients in this citrus giant benefit your body. The fiber in a pomelo is about one-fourth of your daily recommended fiber intake. You might already know that fiber aids in digestion, but did you know that fruit fiber has also been shown to benefit bone density and a decreased risk for some chronic diseases? That fiber in combination with the fruit’s protein helps you to feel fuller longer, which can aid in weight loss or simply keep calories lower. That combo is also key in maintaining gut health.
Loaded with antioxidants, which are associated with anti-aging, pomelo can fight the damage caused to your cells by free radicals. Although research is still being conducted as to how effective that is, there is no harm in enjoying foods that may have the potential to decrease the risk of cancer. A single pomelo will provide over 400% of your daily Vitamin C, but the main antioxidants in the fruit are naringenin and naringin.
Related Articles
From a Healthline article supported by publications in PubMed: “…naringenin — one of the main antioxidants in pomelo — has been shown to kill prostate and pancreatic cancer cells, as well as slow the spread of lung cancer in test-tube studies. Still, more research in humans is needed to fully understand pomelo’s effect on cancer.”
The anti-inflammatory antioxidant lycopene is also present in pomelos, which means that eating them may also benefit heart health. A study in rats has shown a reduction of triglycerides and LDL, bad cholesterol in your blood. However, if you are prescribed statins, seek the advice of your physician as pomelos—like grapefruit—can interfere with your metabolism of statins.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, supplies will be abundant—in Chinese, the word for pomelo sounds similar to the Chinese word for “to have.” During the New Year, it is a symbol of health, wealth, happiness, and family unity.
The next time you see what looks like a giant grapefruit, don’t overlook it. If citrus is not restricted from your diet, you should give pomelo a try. They are found most often in Asian markets, but I’ve seen them carried in many other grocery stores and produce stands. If you don’t see them in your produce section, just ask for “pom-uh-lohs.” Enjoy!
Contributing writer Denise Lum is a Health and Fitness Coach raising her family in Alameda. Contact her via [email protected] or FitnessByDsign.com. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Denise-Lum.
