The Tram Fruit, also known as the wild tram or forest tram, is a wild-growing tree that has gradually been utilized by locals as a shade tree. When the tree reaches 4-5 years of age, it bears fruit, which typically ripens from late March to June in the lunar calendar, depending on the year.
In the past, this fruit could be freely picked without any market for buying or selling. However, in recent years, the wild tram has made its way to urban markets and is sold at high prices. According to Người Lao động, in May 2023, this fruit was priced at 150,000 VND per kilogram, which is relatively high compared to the average fruit prices at that time. This fruit is indeed a wild product that thrives well in the Bay Nui region (An Giang), with only one harvest season each year and a short harvesting period.
The tram fruit is oval-shaped and cylindrical; when unripe, it is green, with a sour and astringent taste, growing in dense clusters. As it ripens, the fruit gradually turns red, purple, and even a glossy black, making it visually appealing.
The Tram Fruit, also known as wild tram or forest tram.
According to Health Shots, this fruit has numerous nutritional benefits and is good for health.
Benefits of Tram Fruit
Blood Sugar Control
The tram fruit is low in calories and rich in polyphenol antioxidants. This group of compounds can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Polyphenols protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas from oxidative damage caused by free radicals; they also reduce inflammation and inhibit the full digestion of starch and simple carbohydrates, which helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
Improves Hemoglobin Levels
Rich in vitamin C and iron, tram fruit increases hemoglobin levels. This aids the blood in transporting more oxygen to organs, keeping you healthy. The iron in tram fruit also helps purify the blood.
Enhances Skin Beauty
The tram fruit has astringent properties that help protect the skin from blemishes, acne, wrinkles, and pimples. Furthermore, the vitamin C content in tram fruit also detoxifies the blood, ensuring that your skin remains radiant and bright.
Boosts Cardiovascular Health
Tram fruit is high in potassium, making it beneficial for the heart. Each 100 grams of tram fruit contains about 55 mg of potassium. This fruit helps consumers avoid conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It also helps prevent the risk of arteriosclerosis.
Weight Management
Due to its low calorie and high fiber content, tram fruit is classified as a healthy food for weight loss. Additionally, tram fruit improves digestion and helps reduce water retention in the body, effectively assisting in weight loss.
Boosts Immunity
The tram fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that enhance immune function. Therefore, consuming tram fruit increases the body’s resilience against common illnesses.
Improves Oral Health
The tram fruit possesses antibacterial properties that protect the teeth from oral infections and bacteria. This fruit is also used to address gum issues that cause pain and sensitivity.
Tram fruit provides high nutritional value; however, you need to be mindful of certain points when consuming it.
Precautions When Eating Tram Fruit
Do Not Drink Water After Eating Tram Fruit
Avoid drinking water immediately after consuming tram fruit, as this can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea and indigestion. It is advisable to wait about 30 to 40 minutes before drinking water.
Avoid Eating Tram Fruit on an Empty Stomach
Eating tram fruit on an empty stomach can be harmful to health. Due to its sour taste, consuming it while hungry can lead to issues like acid reflux, stomach pain, and intestinal irritation. Tram fruit also aids digestion; therefore, it is best consumed after a meal.
Avoid Eating Turmeric at the Same Time as Tram Fruit
Do not consume any dishes containing turmeric immediately after eating tram fruit. Combining tram fruit and turmeric may trigger various reactions in the body and cause stomach irritation. It is recommended to avoid turmeric-containing foods for at least 30 minutes after eating tram fruit.
Say No to Milk After Eating Tram Fruit
Drinking milk right after eating tram fruit can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, indigestion, and stomach pain. Therefore, combining milk with tram fruit is an unhealthy mix that can harm your health.
Avoid Pickled Cucumbers After Eating Tram Fruit
Many people enjoy snacking on pickled cucumbers with their meals. However, consuming pickled cucumbers after eating tram fruit can trigger adverse reactions, leading to stomach-related issues.
