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Acerola has exceptional nutritional properties. It contains the most vitamin C of all fruits - over 30 times more than the famous lemons. The consumption of just 3 acerola fruits covers the daily requirement of an adult for this valuable vitamin. However, this is not the only he alth-promoting effect of sour fruit. What other properties does acerola have?

Acerola , also known as the Barbados cherry (LatinMalpighia glabra ), is a species of evergreen shrub that is native to America Central. Acerola has foundapplicationin the natural medicine of this exotic region due to itshealing propertiesof small, acidic fruits. In the past, they were used - both in children and adults - in the treatment of anemia, chicken pox, and in liver and lung ailments. However, they were most often used in supporting the immune system and counteracting the symptoms of colds due to their strong antibacterial effect .¹ Currently, acerola fruits are best known for being a treasure trove of vitamin C. Apart from it, acerola fruits contain two other valuable antioxidants - carotenoids and anthocyanins.

Acerola - a treasure trove of vitamin C

Acerola is one of the fruits with the highest content of natural vitamin C - from 1000 to 4500 mg / 100 g of fresh weight - on average about 1500 mg of vitamin C, which is about 3 percent. the composition of the fruit. ¹

Consuming just 3 acerola fruits covers the daily requirement of an adult for vitamin C.

It is worth knowing that green acerola fruits have twice the level of this vitamin in relation to ripe fruits. The consumption of just 3 acerola fruits covers the daily requirement of an adult for this ingredient.

Vitamin C supports the body's immunity. It is also an effective antioxidant that improves the functioning of the circulatory system - it prevents atherosclerosis, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke. It also has potential anti-cancer effects. It is also one of the guarantors of efficient and strong bones and joints. If you are struggling with symptoms of vitamin C deficiency, such as weakness, fatigue, lack of appetite, and a tendency to developbruises, bleeding gums, muscle and joint pain, reach for acerola to quickly balance its level in the body.

Worth knowing

Acerola - nutritional value of fruit / juice(in 100 g)Energy value - 32/23 kcal Total protein - 0.40 / 0.40 g Fat - 0.30 / 0.30 g Carbohydrates - 7.69 / 4.80 g Fiber - 1.1 / 0.3 gVitamins

Vitamin C - 1677.6 / 1600.0 mg Thiamine - 0.020 / 0.020 mg Riboflavin - 0.060 / 0.060 mg Niacin - 0.400 / 0.400 mg Vitamin B6 - 0.009 / 0.004 mg Folic acid - 14/14 µg Vitamin A - 767/509 IU Vitamin K - 0 / 1.4 µg Vitamin E - 0 / 0.18 mg

MineralsCalcium - 12/10 mg Iron - 0.20 / 0.50 mg Magnesium - 18/12 mg Phosphorus - 11/9 mg Potassium - 146/97 mg Sodium - 7/3 mg Zinc - 0.10 / 0.10 mg

Fatty acids

saturated - 0.068 / 0.068 g monounsaturated - 0.082 / 0.082 g polyunsaturated - 0.090 / 0.090 gData Source: USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference

Acerola - a we alth of carotenoids and anthocyanins

Other valuable antioxidants in acerola are carotenoids and anthocyanins (a type of flavonoid), which are responsible for the dark red color of the fruit.

The use of acerola in the prevention of diseases of old age and in the case of resistance to pharmacological treatment is also mentioned.

Inacerola juice17 carotenoids have been found. Some sources report the content of carotenoids in the range of 371-1881 mg / 100 g. Among them the largest part was beta-carotene, ie provitamin A (up to 75%). It is a compound that accelerates tanning, ensures the proper functioning of eyesight (e.g. reduces the risk of macular degeneration, which is the main cause of blindness in old age), prevents heart disease, and strengthens immunity.

Additionally, one kilogram of fruit contains anthocyanins in the range of 37.9-597.4 mg, and flavonols 70-185 mg.² It is worth knowing that the antioxidant activity of acerola juice is higher compared to other sources of antioxidants, e.g. grape juice, which is famous for its high antioxidant (antioxidant) content. Anthocyanins also have a positive effect on eyesight and the cardiovascular system. They also show anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and potential anti-cancer properties.

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Acerola - where to buy? What's the price?

Due to the delicate structure of the flesh, ripe fruits do not tolerate the conditions of storage and long transport. Therefore, they require quick processing into juices, frozen concentrates or powdered preparations. Fruit in Polish storesaceroli are available as:

  • powdered extract - price: about PLN 80 per 100 g (BIO version). It can be mixed with water. Recommended daily dose: 2-3 teaspoons a day
  • juice - for 250 ml of juice you have to pay 10 to 20 PLN
  • tablets (to be sucked or swallowed) - the recommended dose is 1-3 tablets a day. Prices range from 25 to even 100 PLN per pack (depends on the number of tablets and the content of acerola extract in them)

Acerola - use in cosmetics

Beta-carotene contained in acerola supports the treatment of acne and delays the appearance of wrinkles, as does vitamin C, which additionally seals the blood vessels. Therefore, acerola has found application in cosmetics - extracts of this fruit are a component of many creams and face masks.

Bibliography:

Cieślik E., Gębusia A., Characteristics of he alth-promoting properties of exotic plant fruits, "Postępy Phytoterapii" 2012, No. 2

Category:

Alternative medicine