Fresh Pomelo

About

Pomelo—also called “pummelo” or “pommelo” —is the largest member of the citrus (Rutaceae) family. This large, pale, green or yellow fruit has a pink, white or red inside that tastes like a slightly sweeter alternative to grapefruit. For that reason, some call people also call it a Chinese grapefruit.

The fruit is native to Southeast Asia. and is less commonly consumed in the United States.

Benefits

Pomelo is a relatively low-calorie food, although it is higher in calories than some other types of fruit. Most of the calories in pomelo come from carbohydrate, according to USDA data.

Like most citrus fruits, pomelo health benefits come primarily from the vitamin C it provides. Vitamin C must be consumed in the diet because our bodies are unable to make it naturally.

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is essential for good bone structure, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. It aids in the absorption of iron, promotes wound-healing, and it may also help to prevent disease. In fact, studies investigating the role of citrus in cancer prevention are showing that these fruits may provide a positive benefit. However, research is ongoing.

You’ll also get a small boost of fiber when you pomelo. Most of us don’t get enough fiber in our diets. Fiber helps to boost satiety, improves digestive health, and may help to lower blood cholesterol. Current guidelines suggest that you consume 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day.