Is Rambutan a superfood? Find out what the experts say, get serving sizes, and health concerns
Perspective from Leticia Soares
Possible Side Effects
- Allergies to rambutan are rare, but it can occur in patients with a family history of allergies.
- Excessive consumption of rambutan can cause digestive problems such as bloating, gas, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipation.
- Rambutan seeds and peel are not edible as they contain compounds that can be toxic to humans.
Quantity Recommendation
- The dietary recommendation for fresh fruits such as rambutan is four servings per day. A serving of rambutan is approximately one medium fruit. It is important to eat only the pulp of the fruit, since the seeds and peel are not edible and should be removed. The seeds and peel of rambutan are toxic and can cause coma and even death.
Possible Side Effects
- Rambutan seeds should not be eaten because they could cause poisoning.
Quantity Recommendation
- It is recommended not to consume more than 5 rambutans a day due to the amount of fiber it contains. The easiest way to consume rambutan is to cut the outer skin with a sharp knife. Squeeze the outer skin gently until the milky white edible center pops out.
Story by Leticia Soares, Postgraduate Degree