Acerola cherries are nutrient-rich fruits packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The vitamin C content of an acerola cherry can be 100 times more than that of oranges. Acerola contains several phytochemicals, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, contributing to their antioxidant properties.
Thinking about including acerola cherries in your diet? Keep reading this blog to explore the nutritional profile of acerola cherries, their health benefits, side effects, the various ways you can consume them, and more.
Acerola cherry, often known as Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, is a small, sour acerola fruit. It grows on the Malpighia emarginata shrub and has its origin in the tropics, mainly in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
It is known to have a very high concentration of Vitamin C along with minerals and antioxidant properties. These cherries are typically taken fresh, but they come in other forms like juice, powder, and supplements, thus making them easier to add to daily health routines.
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The macronutrient composition of acerola cherries is as follows:
Acerola is a good source of carbohydrates, mostly in the form of natural sugars like fructose and glucose. A fresh acerola cherry contains about 4.4 grams of carbohydrates per 100-gram serving. The carbohydrate content is considered on the lower side compared to most fruits, and therefore, it is a good option for people who keep a check on their carbohydrate intake.
This cherry contains a trace amount of protein, about 0.4 grams per 100 grams. Although it is not a source of protein, the presence of amino acids in acerola increases its nutritional value.
The content of fats in acerola is very low. It contains less than 0.5 grams of fat in 100 grams. Therefore, it can be excellent for those people who want to maintain a low-fat diet.
From 100 grams of serving, one can get about 1.6 grams of fiber. This fiber will help in digestion, maintaining blood sugar levels, and providing satiety that may help maintain weight.
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Acerola is often recognized as being one of the best natural sources of vitamin C. Check out the different types of vitamins you can get by consuming acerola cherries in the table below:
Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Functions & Benefits |
Vitamin C | 1677.60 mg | Boosts the immune function, promotes collagen synthesis, and supports skin, blood vessels, and bones. Acts as a powerful antioxidant. |
Vitamin A | 38 mcg | Supports eye health, immune function, and skin health. Helps prevent vision problems and improves skin condition. |
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | Trace amount | Essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. |
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | Trace amount | Important for energy production and cellular function. |
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | Trace amount | Aids in energy production and supports skin health, the digestive system, and the nervous system. |
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) | Trace amount | Crucial for energy metabolism and hormone production. |
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) | 0.01 mg | Important for amino acid metabolism and the production of neurotransmitters. |
Vitamin B9 (Folate) | Trace amount | Vital for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and fetal development. |
Acerola provides several essential minerals necessary for good health, like:
Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Functions & Benefits |
Potassium | 146 mg | Supports fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Helps maintain healthy blood pressure and heart function. |
Magnesium | 18 mg | Essential for muscle and nerve function and regulates blood sugar levels. |
Calcium | 12 mg | Contributes to bone health, muscle function, and blood clotting. |
Iron | 0.20 mg | Necessary for hemoglobin production and oxygen transport in the blood. |
Zinc | 0.10 mg | Plays a role in immune function and wound healing. |
Acerola is rich in antioxidants, the compounds that protect the body from oxidative stress and contribute to reducing inflammation. Check them out in the table below:
Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Functions & Benefits |
Anthocyanins | 37 mg | Provides anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and heart-protective properties. Free radicals are neutralized while cell damage is reduced. |
Flavonoids | Kaempferol (1.05 mg), Quercetin (4.74 mg) | Protects cells from oxidative damage and may improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and preventing blood clots. |
Acerola cherries boast an impressive list of health benefits, as they contain a dense concentration of vitamins and antioxidants. They are listed below:
Due to their high Vitamin C content, acerola cherries are considered one of the most powerful immunity-powering foods. Vitamin C plays a major role in stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infections. For this reason, they are usually administered as a natural treatment to lower the severity of cold and flu symptoms.
Acerola further helps maintain good skin health. The combination of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants encourages collagen production necessary for healthy, firm skin. Therefore, they are common in most preparations of skin care products that reduce wrinkling, prevent damage by sun rays, and improve skin tones.
Some of the powerful antioxidants in acerola cherries are anthocyanins and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. When taken regularly, acerola cherries can decrease inflammation within the body, benefiting everything from arthritis to other chronic inflammation diseases.
A significant amount of potassium and a promising antioxidant profile offered by acerola cherries help support cardiovascular health. Antioxidants decrease the oxidative stress related to the development of cardiovascular diseases, while potassium helps to keep the blood pressure level.
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Although they are usually safe and contain a host of health benefits, their excessive consumption can bring a few side effects. Listed below are some possible acerola cherry side effects:
They may be taken in the form of fresh fruit, juice, dried fruit, and powder. Here are some ways that acerola cherries can be taken:
Fresh acerola cherries are mostly found in tropical regions, but acerola cherry powder and supplements provide the easiest alternatives for people far from those regions. Now, despite their immense benefits, overconsumption can lead to potential side effects. Thus, it is crucial that you consume in moderation to enjoy the full benefits offered by this fruit.
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