Acerola cherry Nutritional and Health Benefits

Description of Acerola cherry

Acerola cherry also known as Barbados cherry is a tropical evergreen shrub, bright red in colour, with a sweet- sour taste usually 2–3 m (6.6–9.8 ft) tall or sometimes 6m (20ft) tall belonging to the family of Malpighiaceae, scientifically called Malpighia emarginata, a native of Yucatan in Southern Mexico which is now found in other parts of the world. They are hugely demanded for their exceptionally high concentration of vitamin-C almost like that of camu camu. Cultivation is on dry, sandy soil where climate temperature is high. Because of its highly perishable nature, they are mostly found in supplements. Ripe ones are sweeter and juicier with edible seeds.

Picture of Acerola cherry

Nutritional benefits of Acerola cherry

These fruits contain high level of antioxidants which are from poly-phenolic anthocyanidin compounds (chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, pelargonidin, malvidin, tannins, cyanidin-3-glycoside, quercetin, and kaempferol). They are second to camu camu in terms of the highest content of vitamin C present among fruits and contain 13 times more vitamin C than an equal portion of orange juice. They contain vitamin A and are rich in B-complex vitamins such as niacin, folates, pantothenic acid, B-6and riboflavin as well as carotenoids and bioflavonoids. There are presence of adequate minerals and electrolytes such as potassium, manganese, copper, iron, and zinc. There are also, protein, water, carbohydrate and dietary fibre.

Health benefits of Acerola cherry

All the health benefiting components of acerola cherry mentioned above gives it a great edge in preventing and handling many forms of diseases and are due to its vitamin C content. Enjoy 1 cup of acerola juice and get amazed by the optimum health and wellness you find. Immune system function and bowel movement are eased, blood clot, heart disease, anti aging, scurvy, cancer, physical endurance are prevented and improved, and pressure sores, bleeding in the eye (retinal haemorrhages), common cold, depression, tooth decay, gum infections, depression, hay fever and collagen disorders are treated.

More evidence might be needed to rate the effectiveness of acerola for these conditions as the vitamin C in acerola might increase uric acid levels and make gout worse. Other than that, acerola cherries are not commonly known as an allergenic food and moderate consumption of not more than 2,000 milligrams daily is okay as the Office of Dietary supplements cautions.

Acai berry Nutritional and Health Benefis

Description of Acai berry

Acai berries are dark purple fruits that originated in the Brazilian rainforest and grow on palm trees (in bunches) with a grape-like shape and have a red wine flavoured taste. They are also known as palm berries with Euterpe oleracea as their scientific name, while belonging to the family arecaceae. Their fruits are mostly seed with little of pulp, highly perishable and needs freeze drying to protect their nutritional content. Harvesting is strenuous and is done manually by cutting them with knives in bunches. Acai berries are super foods rich in nutrients with a very high ORAC value in freeze dried form of about 102,700 µ mol TE/100g. They are known for their high concentration of antioxidants which is ten times the amount in grapes and two times the amount in blueberries.

Picture of Acai berry

Nutritional benefits of Acai berry

Acai berries have incredible antioxidant properties, anthocyanin’s and plant sterols stored in them. They are also a source of calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper with high vitamin contents like vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and E. They are also a source of amino acids, fibre, minerals and essential fatty acids. They contain ellagic acid also.

Health benefits of Acai berry

The antioxidants in this plant are effective in preventing anti-aging and when oils are used for cosmetics products, give the skin a healthier glow. The antioxidants also lower blood stream cholesterol levels and improve cellular and heart health. The presence of amino acids helps to enhance muscle performance and energy production. Plant sterols help in blood vessel relaxation and enhance blood circulation. The ellagic acid boosts the immune system by suppressing cancer cell multiplication. Because of the dietary fibre content, acai aids in good detoxification of the digestive system for optimal function thereby getting rid of constipation. They maintain a healthy weight by cutting down excess pounds and help fight harmful organisms with extracts gotten from them. It increases blood circulation in the body and contribute to better sex for men. It improves mental function in women between ages 45 to 50 and fights other health problems that might not be mentioned. 

Acai berries are used for making energy drinks, perfume and other cosmetics. It is also beneficial to the overall health of the body. Acai berries are helpful in slowing down the aging process. They taste good and are safer when moderately consumed. There is no doubt about the health benefits of Acai berries. Their nutritional profiles are outstanding.