What nutrients are found in persimmons and how do they benefit health, including cholesterol and eye health?

### Nutrients in Persimmons and Their Health Benefits Persimmons are a nutritious fruit packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Here are some key nutrients found in persimmons and their health benefits: #### Vitamins and Minerals - **Vitamin A**: Essential for vision and eye health. - **Vitamin C**: Supports the immune system and protects against heart disease. - **Manganese**: Helps with blood clotting. #### Antioxidants - **Lutein**: Found in the peel, helps protect against eye diseases. - **Flavonoids**: Found in the peel, have antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. #### Fiber - **Soluble Dietary Fiber**: Slows the digestion of carbohydrates, preventing spikes in blood sugar. - **Tannin-rich Fiber**: Effective in treating high cholesterol. ### Health Benefits - **Heart Health**: Helps keep arteries clear and reduces the risk of heart disease. - **Eye Health**: Provides more than half the recommended daily intake of vitamin A, important for vision. - **Diabetes Prevention**: Contains flavonoids that protect against the formation of harmful compounds linked to diabetes. ### Portion Sizes A typical portion is one average-sized persimmon. While persimmons are healthy, they are high in sugar, so it's important to consume them as part of a balanced diet. ### Ways to Add Persimmons to Your Diet - Eat them fresh. - Add them to salads. - Use them in baked goods. - Incorporate them into cooked dishes.