Acerola is good for the flu, intestines and diabetes: see the 50 benefits of this fruit

Acerola is a red-colored tropical fruit that has an acidic-sour taste and smells similar to that of apple . Acerola is rich in antioxidants (including vitamin C and anthocyanins), calcium , iron , phosphorus , vitamin A , vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and vitamin B3.

Acerola ( Malpighia emarginata ) is a tropical fruit shrub belonging to the Malpighiaceae family .

Native to southern Mexico, South America and Central America, it is popular for its edible fruits that have incredible health and medicinal values.

The ripe fruit is yellow-orange or bright red in color and has a wonderful aroma and a sweet-sour taste. In addition to vitamin C , acerola is also rich in several other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which makes it a nutritious and healthy food.

Acerola , also known as the “Barbadian cherry,” is an evergreen shrub found in tropical regions throughout the world, including the southern United States.

Acerola  has hundreds of years of history as a traditional medicine in the Amazon.

Acerola Nutritional Value:

Acerola is a fat-free, low-calorie fruit.

Acerola  ‘s 100-gram servings provide just 32 calories . As mentioned earlier, Acerola  is best known for its high vitamin C content .

Acerola contains 65 times more vitamin C than an orange. Vitamin A is another nutrient that is present in good amounts in this fruit.

Berries also contain small amounts of B vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin, folic acid and pantothenic acid.

Acerola contains several polyphenolic compounds that have strong antioxidant properties.

These compounds eliminate the negative effects of free radicals and protect your body from aging, degenerative diseases, inflammation and life threatening diseases like cancer .

In addition to these nutrients, acerola also contains essential minerals such as Potassium , Magnesium , Iron , Zinc , Calcium ,   Phosphorus and Copper .

Acerola has been proven to have numerous health benefits, improve immunity, improve metabolism, improve vision, reduce blood pressure, reduce weight, to name a few. Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits of acerola .

Acerola what is it for

Acerola is a fruit rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin .

The fruit is used to treat or prevent scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency .

Acerola is also used to prevent heart disease, “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis), blood clots and cancer.

Some people use it to treat common colds, pressure ulcers, eye bleeding (retinal hemorrhages), cavities, gum infections, depression, hay fever, and collagen disorders.

Check below the main benefits of acerola for your health;

• Strengthens the immune system;
• Helps to lose weight;
• Improves skin health;
• Combats cardiovascular diseases;
• Prevents cancer;
• for flu;
• for pregnant women;
• Prevent diabetes;
• Improves vision;
• Offers energy to the body;
• Improves thyroid function;
• Prevents and treats gastrointestinal problems.

Acerola benefits

Diabetics: 

Acerola is an excellent source of antioxidant polyphenols that help keep blood sugar levels in check.

Studies indicate that these compounds regulate blood glucose by slowing the release of glucose into the bloodstream. This helps in preventing unnecessary spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which is dangerous for people suffering from diabetes.

It has also been found that regular consumption of acerola can even prevent the onset of diabetes.

A study on the effects of acerola juice on blood glucose profile and lipid metabolism in rats showed that when diabetic-induced rats were treated with acerola juice , there was a significant decrease in glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

An increase in HDL or good cholesterol was also observed. According to this study, acerola juice may have the potential to aid in the treatment as well as prevention of diabetes and its associated complications.

Immune system: 

Regular intake of acerola can help improve the functioning of your immune system.

This fruit contains high levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin C , both of which stimulate the production of new white blood cells, which play a vital role in destroying the foreign particles and microbes that invade your body and cause disease.

Chronic disease prevention:

The vitamin C in Acerola  promotes long-term health by reducing the risk of chronic disease. Acerola  reduces the risks of diabetes and prevents the risk of stroke.

Consuming about 500 milligrams of vitamin C (less than the amount present in half a cup of Acerola cherry can improve blood vessel reactions. This is beneficial especially if you are suffering from cardiovascular disease.

The vitamin A present in Acerola  also supports vision and is quite helpful against blindness, which is related to a vitamin A deficiency. ^[1]

For the Skin: 

The presence of high amounts of antioxidants and Vitamin C makes acerola extremely beneficial for the skin.

In fact, several popular skin care brands have started to incorporate acerola extracts into many of their skin care products.

Free radical damage to skin cells can accelerate skin aging.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has the ability to neutralize the negative effects of these free radicals and prevent the appearance of signs such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

It increases the production of collagen and elastin, which in turn improves the elasticity and suppleness of the skin. Regular consumption of acerola helps to improve the radiance and tone of the skin.

The nutrients in acerola hydrates the skin and improves its ability to retain moisture.

The Vitamin A present in acerola nourishes the skin, protects the skin from sun damage and promotes rapid wound healing and recovery.

It is an excellent source of vitamin A:

Vitamin A is an important nutrient found in acerola .

Vitamin A plays an important role in eye health, normal growth and ongoing development, the production of red blood cells and the strengthening of the immune system.

Against Cancer: 

Acerola is rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoid compounds that show strong antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants play an important role in eliminating the harmful effects of free radicals that cause DNA damage and cause cellular mutations that lead to dangerous diseases like cancer .

According to a 2002 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science, acerola may be helpful in protecting against lung cancer .

The extract obtained from acerola has been found to help slow the spread of lung cancer by regulating abnormal cell growth.

Anti-aging:

Acerola is one of the best anti-aging fruits available in the world. This property of acerola can be attributed to the presence of high amounts of Vitamin C and other antioxidants.

These nutrients slow down the aging process, helping your body fight free radical damage and stress.

Vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen, which improves the skin’s elasticity and flexibility, giving it a youthful appearance.

Accelerates metabolism:

If you want your body to work its best then you need to ensure that you have a healthy metabolic rate. The best way to regulate your metabolism is with b- vitamins .

The list of metabolism -friendly b – vitamins includes niacin, riboflavin and folic acid. They keep your body running smooth and, best of all, are found in abundance in Acerola  .

A healthy metabolism has a lot of benefits all on its own. For a start a healthy metabolism helps you manage your weight by processing food and waste effectively.

For Digestion: 

Foods that contain fiber improve digestion and help prevent various types of digestive disorders.

While acerola is not a rich source of fiber, the little amount of fiber it contains is enough to give your digestive health a boost.

The other nutrients in the fruit, such as vitamins and minerals, also improve the balance of your intestinal flora and promote better digestion.

Eye Health:

Acerola is rich in carotenoids such as lutein, beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, all of which provide beneficial effects for the eyes .

These nutrients not only improve your eye health, but can also help improve night vision, preventing the development of cataracts, delaying the onset of age-related macular degeneration and reducing the risk of conditions like retinitis pigmentosa.

Studies have confirmed that the amount of carotenoids present in acerola is comparable to the amount contained in fruits such as papaya and tomatoes.

Healthy Heart:

Acerola acts as a cardiotonic and helps to strengthen the heart and keep it healthy.

It is an excellent source of potassium, which is a vasodilator that dilates blood vessels and facilitates easy blood flow. This helps to reduce blood pressure and reduces strain on the cardiovascular system.

This fruit also has the amazing ability to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels in the blood.

Acerola is also rich in antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress by fighting harmful free radicals. These properties of acerola are beneficial in protecting against heart diseases like atherosclerosis and heart attacks.

Prevent Stress:

Studies suggest that vitamin C has the power to improve your mood and reduce mental issues like stress, anxiety and depression. As Acerola  is a rich source of vitamin C , its regular consumption can help lift your mood.

Vitamin C increases blood transport through the microvascular system, which is very important because brain cells receive oxygen and nutrients through some of these microvascular blood vessels.

Research indicates that damage to these blood vessels can affect anxiety and mood levels. These results show that eating foods rich in vitamin C like Acerola  can boost your mood and prevent stress and anxiety.

Acerola for pregnant women:

Does Acerola for pregnant women have contraindications? on the contrary, a glass of natural juice of this fruit is enough to meet the need for vitamin C of the pregnant woman . In addition, it contains 5 times more vitamin C than an orange, which is around 235 mg.

Source in Anthocyanins :

Acerola cherry is a good source of anthocyanins, like other berries. Anthocyanins have been closely watched by the medical community because of their many benefits.

Anthocyanins have been found to have many health promoting properties. Different experiments carried out in the laboratory have shown that anthocyanins are quite beneficial in preventing different types of diseases including diabetes, cancer , inflammation, aging, bacterial infections and neurological disorders.

Prevents lung cancer:

Increases protection against lung cancer, according to a 2002 study . In addition, tests in mice revealed that acerola extract helped regulate the growth of abnormal cells to slow the spread of lung cancer. ^[two]

Slimming:

Acerola has a low calorie and fat content, which can be consumed as a perfect snack when you are on a weight loss diet.

This fruit is able to increase the rate of metabolism, which in turn leads to the burning of extra calories.

Consuming acerola on a regular basis is therefore a great way to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight.

For hair:

Packed with a vast array of nutrients, acerola provides many benefits for your hair as well. Acerola is an ingredient in hair care products as it helps in reducing and preventing hair loss.

It contains flavonoids and carotenoids that promote cell regeneration, which makes it an effective remedy for hair loss.

The nutrients in acerola stimulate hair follicles and support hair growth. It also inhibits hair loss and can even help reverse hair loss.

Acerola moisturizes the hair, rejuvenates it and gives it a healthy, shiny appearance.

It is rich in B vitamins :

It has micronutrients such as B vitamins, calcium , iron, potassium and magnesium .

Collagen Production: 

Studies have found that Acerola   ‘s Vitamin C content can produce enough collagen in our body, which is needed to fight aging and increase the performance of sporty people.

Improves Your Mood:

Studies suggest that Vitamin C has the power to improve your mood and reduce mental issues such as stress, anxiety and depression. Acerola is a rich source of Vitamin C , its regular consumption can help lift your mood.

Vitamin C increases blood transport through the microvascular system, which is very important because brain cells receive oxygen and nutrients through some of these microvascular blood vessels.

Research indicates that damage to these blood vessels can affect anxiety and mood levels.

These results show that eating foods rich in Vitamin C like acerola can boost your mood and stave off stress and anxiety.

Not only is acerola a delicious fruit, but it contains the highest amount of Vitamin C when compared to other fruits.

Vitamin C boosts the immune system and is an antioxidant, which helps fight free radicals and prevent many serious health problems.

Relieves oxidative stress:

In a lab study published in 2011, researchers found that acerola extract can fight oxidative stress (an aging-related process associated with a number of serious diseases).

Gastrointestinal Problems: 

Acerola  ‘s high dietary fiber content can keep our entire gastrointestinal system healthy, making bowel movements and bowel cleansing easier.

Against Cardiovascular Diseases: 

Acerola is able to  keep our cardiovascular system strong, regulating the level of blood pressure and normalizing the heart rate.

Acerola  extract is also known to prevent coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Prevents Scurvy:

Being a rich source of vitamin C , acerola can put an end to scurvy which is caused due to deficiency of this vitamin.

Acerola is rich in nutrients:

In addition to vitamins C and A, acerola is also loaded with several other nutrients that are essential for maintaining the normal functionality of our system.

These include B vitamins (B1 or thiamine, B2 or riboflavin, B3 or niacin, B5 from pantothenic acid, B9 or folic acid, etc.), minerals and electrolytes (iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper, phosphorus, etc.), malic acid, sugars (sucrose, fructose, dextrose, etc.), dietary fiber, proteins, lipids, fatty acids, etc.

Acerola for the flu:

Is acerola for the flu good? In addition to lemon and orange, acerola is rich in vitamin C, which stimulates the proper functioning of the body’s defense cells. 1 glass of acerola a day, I prevented colds and flu.

Fights free radicals:

The vitamin C found in Acerola  serves as a building block for the body’s “master antioxidant” glutathione. Glutathione works together with the other antioxidant carotenoids and bioflavonoids in Acerola  to fight free radicals.

Free radicals are byproducts of cellular metabolism that can cause healthy cells to mutate. Therefore, these antioxidants play a beneficial role in cellular health.

How to consume acerola

Fresh fruits and juices:

The best way to consume acerola fruit is freshly taken from the tree or in the form of juices.

You can buy processed acerola products such as frozen fruit or frozen concentrate.

Acerola Powder:

Powdered acerola cherry powder is becoming a popular way to reap the benefits of this superfruit. It can be added to smoothies or used for a slimming juice.

You can easily mix acerola powder into a protein shake or smoothie or simply mix it into a glass of water or juice.

Capsules:

Another alternative on how to reap the benefits of acerola is cherry powder capsules.

Liquid Extract:

You can find acerola extract alone, but you are more likely to find it in extracts combined with other herbs and ingredients.

Revenues

How to make acerola juice

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup of ripe acerola 250 ml or 2 packages of acerola pulp
• 1 glass of ice water 250 ml
• 2 Tablespoons of honey
• 2 Tablespoons of Lemon Juice
• Crushed ice (optional)

How to make:

1. To make acerola juice, start by washing the acerolas well and put them in a blender, add the lemon juice, honey and finally the water.
2. Turn on the blender and blend everything for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Turn off the blender, pass the acerola juice through a strainer, pour it into 2 glasses and add the crushed ice.

How to make acerola jelly

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (tea)
• Acerola 1 1/2 kilos
• 2 cups water (tea)
• lemon 1 unit

How to make:

1. Wash the acerolas and cook in water, with the skin and even the stem (if any), in a high pan, as it forms a lot of foam.
2. After well cooked (about 40 minutes), pass the acerolas through the potato masher.
3. This way, it is already kneading and removing only the pulp.
4. Bring to a boil again, now with the addition of sugar and lemon juice (it will make the jam shine).
5. It will foam a little more and take approximately 30 minutes to set (when the dough is shiny you realize that it is already at the jelly point).
6. When hot it will seem a little soft, but when it cools it will have the ideal texture.
7. Place in sterilized jars and store in the fridge.

How to make acerola pudding

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs;
• 1 can of milk girl;
• The same measure of milk;
• 1/2 cup of regular water;
• 150 grams of acerola – in my case, freshly taken from the tree;
• 4 or 5 tablespoons of sugar (depends on taste).

How to make:

1. First, I cut the acerolas and discard the pits.
2. I put the pulp in the form of pudding with 4 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 cup of water.
3. So far, I’ve spent about 10 minutes.
4. Bring to a low heat and let it cook until it becomes a thick syrup.
5. If necessary, add a little more water.
6. It will cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. But you can see when it’s on point.
7. Meanwhile, I beat the three eggs (white and yolk), the young milk and the milk in a blender.
8. I let it beat for about 5 minutes.
9. With the syrup ready, I pour the pudding (the smoothie in the blender) over the syrup and put it in the oven in a bain-marie until it browns – about 60 minutes.
10. Let it cool, unmold and put it in the fridge.
11. Then, IT’S GOING TO SEE!!!

How to make acerola mousse

Ingredients:

• 593.5 g (equivalent to two and a half cans of condensed milk)
• 400 g (equivalent to 2 boxes of sour cream)
• 500 ml of acerola pulp

How to make:

1. Pass the acerola in the blender and grind (it has a very creamy juice).
2. Put the creamy acerola juice in the mixer.
3. Then add the condensed milk and the whey-free cream.
4. Beat until very creamy and consistent.
5. Then put it in a refractory where it can go in the freezer.
6. Then just decorate and that’s it.

How to make acerola cake

Ingredients:

• Sugar 2 cups (tea)
• 1 cup margarine (tea)
• Egg 4 units
• Wheat flour 3 cups (tea)
• Acerola 250 grams
• Baking powder 1 tablespoon (soup)

How to make:

1. Put the acerola in the blender with a little water – it has to be enough just to beat and form a thick pulp.
2. Strain this pulp and separate 1 cup of this concentrated juice to use in the cake batter.
3. In the blender place the margarine, eggs, sugar, acerola pulp and beat well.
4. Add the flour little by little (if the blender can’t handle it, mix by hand) and finally the yeast.
5. Put the dough in a greased and infarinhada shape and take it to bake at 180ºC for about 40 minutes.

How to plant an acerola tree?

How to plant acerola at home

After all, how to plant acerola ? Planting It should preferably be carried out at the beginning or during the months of the rainy season, in deep, sandy-clay and well-drained soils.

Except in winter, planting can be done at any time of the year, if irrigation is available in the fruit tree. below, watch the video on how to plant acerola .

How to plant acerola in a pot

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) is a shrub or tree that can reach 3 meters in height and is very well adapted to the Brazilian climate.

its main characteristic is that it has a fruit rich in vitamin C that can be consumed fresh or in the preparation of juices and sweets.

In the end? Can you plant acerola in a pot? yes it does. check it out in the video below:

How to plant twig acerola

Acerola side effects:

Acerola is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults. It can cause some side effects including nausea, stomach cramps, drowsiness and insomnia. Very high doses can cause diarrhea. Yes, there are some precautions with:

Drop:

Acerola’s vitamin C can increase uric acid levels and make gout worse.

Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis):

In large doses, acerola can increase the chance of developing kidney stones. This is because of the vitamin C in acerola.