A dietitian explained who should avoid persimmons and shared tips on how to eliminate their astringent taste.

Russian dietitian-endocrinologist Anastasia Kalmurzina explained who should limit or completely avoid persimmons from their diet, especially the astringent varieties. In an interview with RIA Novosti, the specialist clarified that the astringent taste of the fruit is due to tannins – tannic substances found in the skin. An excess of these can lead to kidney issues, gastrointestinal tract problems, and liver intoxication.

Kalmurzina noted that the consumption of tannins can hinder the absorption of vitamins and minerals, as well as cause constipation.

“Tannins form a film or sticky mass in the digestive tract, which is particularly dangerous for children under three years old, individuals with chronic constipation, those with hemorrhoids in an acute stage, and anyone who has undergone surgery on the stomach or intestines. In such cases, persimmons should be excluded from the diet,” the expert emphasized.

To mitigate the astringent taste, the dietitian recommended:

storing persimmons with bananas to speed up ripening;

soaking the fruit in warm water for 10–12 hours;

placing them in the freezer, although the texture may become less pleasant after thawing.

Persimmons and Health Conditions

Persimmons have a diuretic effect, which is beneficial for swelling and fluid retention. However, during flare-ups of pyelonephritis, cystitis, and other kidney diseases, the fruit should be limited to 1–2 pieces per week.

Although there is no statistical data on allergic reactions to persimmons, it may act as an allergen for individuals who are sensitive to iodine, which is present in the fruit.

Persimmons and Blood Sugar Levels

The sweetness of persimmons varies by variety: for instance, “Korolek” is the sweetest, while “Chinese” persimmons are less sugary. However, in any form, they contain 16–25 g of sugar per 100 g, making them undesirable for individuals with diabetes, especially during decompensation stages.

“For diabetes patients, persimmons are contraindicated if blood sugar levels remain high. With controlled levels, one fruit per week can be allowed,” Kalmurzina stressed.

For healthy individuals, the dietitian recommends limiting consumption to a maximum of 1–