Acerola, Natural Source of Vitamin C
We all know how important Vitamin C is. It’s a powerful antioxidant, helps manage high blood pressure, boosts the immune system, and improves iron absorption.
The majority of people get Vitamin C through citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, red peppers, kiwifruit, broccoli, strawberries, Brussel sprouts, and cantaloupe.
But which fruit has the most vitamin C?
A study conducted in May 2011 revealed that organic acerola presented a higher concentration of total vitamin C than any other fruit. Moreover, acerola contains phytonutrients like carotenoids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. In other words, acerola has 100 times more Vitamin C than oranges or lemon!
Background History
Acerola is a plant native to northern South America, Central America, southern Mexico, and the Caribbean. Acerola is a deep red color when ripe, but is easily bruised and lasts only 2–3 days at room temperature.
1. Better Absorption!
The vitamin C of acerola is better absorbed by human beings than the synthetic vitamin C. A study conducted by Uchinda in 2011 stated that the component of acerola increased efficiency absorption and excretion of vitamin C.
Unfortunately, vitamin C in acerola is very unstable and any added process to fresh acerola will lose its vitamin C rapidly. It’s best to take fresh acerola!
2. Healthy Immune System
Now we all know that acerola contains a very high amount of vitamin C. Eating only three acerolas can meet the daily requirement for this vitamins. That is how powerful acerola is!
Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of the immune system. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant protecting the body against oxidative stress and appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and infections. Ultimately, the accumulation of vitamin C in cells and promote microbial killing.
3. Better Brain Function
The brain has a large potential oxidative capacity but a limited ability to counteract oxidative stress. Thus, a buildup of oxidative stress results in brain cell injury and increases the potential of causing neurodegenerative disorders.
On the contrary, vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining the brain’s chemical balance by influencing the function of receptors.
Although more studies are needed to prove the effect of Vitamin C as a neuroprotective agent, it’s true that antioxidants in acerola reduce inflammation and oxidative stress which is known to damage the brain.
4. Smart Eating
Acerola is a great natural source of vitamin C and is well tolerated when used in a typical food amount. How can we eat Acerola in most healthy and effective way? Here are few ways you can add Acerola to your daily eating.
- Add fresh Acerola to your salad or yogurt
- Add fresh Acerola to your favorite smoothie
If you can’t find a fresh Acerola at your local store, you can purchase an Acerola capsule or powder instead. Acerola capsules can be taken as directed by the brand of your choice or a 1 tablespoon of Acerola powder can be added to your salad, yogurt, or smoothie.
Always be mindful that eating a large amount of acerola may cause vomiting, abdominal pain and dehydration. Three Acerolas fulfill the daily recommended dose of vitamin C.
