Most people underestimate kaki: And they’re missing out on its main strength.

Kaki is a fruit that is often overlooked. It is a seasonal food that is only available in shops in many countries during certain months. Kaki is not as common as apples or oranges. Therefore, people often have no idea how to include it in their diet. However, it has a number of properties that could have a significant impact on our health.

Kaki is a surprisingly rich source of several important nutrients. Yet people often underestimate their benefits to the body. One kaki, which weighs about 168 grams, contains about 118 calories, 6 grams of fibre and 12.6 milligrams of vitamin C , according to a recent study . In addition, it also contains 270 milligrams of potassium.

Sugars VS fibre

Kaki contains, among other things, large amounts of carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lycopene, but also trace elements (such as magnesium, calcium, potassium and copper). All these substances significantly increase the nutritional value of the fruit. Nevertheless, people often avoid kaki, either because they are reluctant to buy it or even afraid to try it. Why?

Experts perceive two main reasons:

• People don’t understand how much power is hidden in the numbers mentioned above. They don’t realise that vitamin A from kaki, for example, supports eyesight, immunity and skin health.
• They are often afraid of the sugar in the fruit. Yet kaki contains natural sugars, but also fibre, which slows down the absorption of glucose.

Antioxidants and prevention of chronic diseases

One of the main benefits of kaki is its antioxidant substances. Studies report that the fruit contains phenolic compounds, carotenoids, tannins and flavonoids that help neutralize free radicals. The substances have also been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. In addition, they reduce cholesterol and the risk of inflammation in the body.

Unfortunately, people perceive kaki only as a sweet fruit, not as a functional food that brings many benefits to the body. Moreover, they often do not realise that it can be incorporated into the diet in many ways. The substances in kaki work in an excellent way mainly because of the combination of their effects. Vitamins, minerals and fiber are interdependent. On their own, they are very helpful to the body, but together they are even more beneficial.

Kaki and inflammation

Inflammation is associated with a wide range of civilisational diseases. These include type 2 diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Kaki can be an excellent aid in these diseases. A 2024 study shows that the flesh and skin of kaki can reduce markers of inflammation in the blood and tissues.

In addition, there is a study that once tested the effects of kaki on overweight people. Patients experienced a significant decrease in body fat after 120 days of regular consumption of this fruit. The lipid profile also improved and blood glucose levels also decreased.