Their orange-colored fruits called persimmons are known for their sweet, honey-like flavor. Persimmons can be eaten fresh, dried or cooked and are commonly used around the world in jellies, drinks, pies, curries and puddings. Not only are persimmons tasty, they’re packed with nutrients that can benefit your health in several ways. While hundreds of types exist, the Hachiya and Fuyu varieties are among the most popular. Japan’s national fruit, the persimmon grows on the Diospyros kaki tree.

Persimmons are sweet, versatile fruits full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and beneficial plant compounds. What’s more, they may promote heart health, reduce inflammation, support healthy vision and keep your digestive system healthy. Plus, they are tasty and pair well with many foods. With all the benefits that persimmons have to offer, adding these tasty fruits to your diet should be a no-brainer.

Health benefits of Persimmon

1. Loaded With Nutrients
Though small in size, persimmons are packed with an impressive amount of nutrients. Persimmons are high in important vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C and B, potassium and manganese. They also contain beneficial plant compounds like tannins and flavonoids.

2. Excellent Source of Powerful Antioxidants
Persimmons contain beneficial plant compounds that have antioxidant qualities. This are an excellent source of powerful antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids. Diets rich in these compounds have been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.

3. May Benefit Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and negatively impacts the lives of millions of people (9Trusted Source). Persimmons contain flavonoid antioxidants and tannins, which benefit heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering inflammation and decreasing cholesterol levels.

4. May Help Reduce Inflammation
Conditions like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, cancer and obesity are all linked to chronic inflammation. Persimmons are rich in the powerful antioxidant vitamin C, which helps lower inflammation, a common cause of many diseases.

5. Rich in Fiber
Having too much cholesterol, especially “bad” LDL cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and heart attack. Fiber-rich foods like persimmons can help lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugar levels and keep your digestive system healthy.

6. Support Healthy Vision
Persimmons provide lots of vitamin A and antioxidants that are critical for eye health. This fruit are high in vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin — all nutrients that support healthy vision.

7. Delicious and Easy to Add to Your Diet
Persimmons can be added to a variety of dishes to provide an extra boost of nutrition. It’s taste great in both sweet and savory dishes, including oatmeal, meat dishes, baked goods and smoothies.