Have You Ever Tried West Indian Cherry?
If you haven't, you are missing out not just on a tantalizingly sweet and tangy flavor, but also on a plethora of health benefits. West Indian Cherry, also known by its scientific name, Malpighia Emarginata, or the more common names, Barbados cherry or Acerola, is power-packed with nutrients including the highest vitamin C content compared to other fruits. But that's just for starters; the health benefits of this cherry are plenty and will leave you becoming a fan.
Summary
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What is the West Indian Cherry?
Before we delve into health benefits, let’s understand this wonder fruit a little better. The West Indian Cherry or Acerola is a tropical fruit-bearing shrub or small tree. It's native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, and its fruit is consumed fresh and in juice form in these regions. Outside its native regions, Acerola cherries are occasionally used in jams, jellies, and they also make for a vital ingredient in the nutraceutical industry for their nutritional profile.
The Nutritional Profile of West Indian Cherry
There's a reason why the West Indian Cherry has been described as a wonder fruit – its nutritional profile. Despite its small size, the Acerola cherry is a nutritional powerhouse. Let’s break down its excellent nutritional profile:
Vitamins: Acerola cherries are renowned for their high Vitamin C content. In fact, just a single Acerola cherry contains 65-100 mg of Vitamin C, which is almost 10 times the content found in an orange. It’s no surprise then why West Indian Cherry is often a primary source of Vitamin C in supplements. But the value does not end there. These cherries are also a good source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, and B3.
Minerals: The list includes a fair amount of Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus, and Potassium. Your body requires these minerals in minute quantities daily, which the West Indian Cherry can supply.
Health Benefits of West Indian Cherry
With such an impressive nutritional profile, it's no wonder the West Indian Cherry boasts of so many health benefits. Here’s a look at some of them.
Boosts Immunity
Given the high vitamin C levels, Acerola cherries aid in boosting your immune system. Vitamin C is best known for its capability to strengthen immunity, enabling the body to fight off diseases and infections. It helps prevent colds and increases the body’s ability to absorb iron, thus preventing anemia.
Improves Digestive Health
Acerola cherries contain vitamins A, B1, B2, and B3, known for promoting digestive health. These vitamins assist in nutrient absorption, prevent constipation, and help maintain a healthy digestive system.
Supports Heart Health
Research has indicated West Indian Cherry's ability to support heart health. It helps in the prevention of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in your arteries. The anti-oxidative properties of the cherry reduce bad LDL cholesterol levels and help to regulate blood pressure.
Antioxidant Properties
These cherries boast antioxidant properties due to the high vitamin C content. This antioxidant action helps combat free radicals, unstable molecules leading to cellular damage, and various health problems. Indeed, these cherries offer superior antioxidant action which helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer.
Skin Benefits
Acerola cherries prove great for your skin too! Their high Vitamin C content aids in collagen synthesis, a protein needed to maintain the skin’s elasticity and youthfulness. Consuming these cherries can help repair damaged skin cells, delay aging signs, and promote a healthy skin glow.
The Conclusion
Your journey to better health could benefit from adding the West Indian Cherry to your diet. Whether it's boosting your immunity, aiding detoxification, supporting heart health, enhancing digestion, or even shining through your skin, this small-sized wonder fruit promises big-sized benefits. So, the next time you spot this tropical fruit in your supermarket or as a supplement, remember the many health benefits it brings along and don't hesitate to include them in your diet.
