Kei apple, also known as Dovyalis caffra, is a cherry-sized tropical fruit widely found in the sub-Saharan region of Africa. Packed with vital nutrients, this yellow-orange fruit packs an anti-inflammatory punch that can boost your overall health. In this article, we explore the nutritional value and health benefits of Kei apple, including its anti-inflammatory properties, bone health effects, food combining information, and immune system effects.
What is Kei Apple?
Kei apple is a small, round fruit with an orange-yellow hue that grows on trees found primarily in South Africa. It has a sweet and tangy taste, similar to that of a pineapple, a lemon, or a Granny Smith apple. It is also known for its small, glossy, and thin-skinned exterior with a fleshy pulp on the inside.
Nutritional Value of Kei Apple
Kei apple is a powerhouse of nutrients. A 100-gram serving of Kei apple provides the following nutritional value.
- Calories: 60
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 0.8 g
- Fat: 0.7 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3.0 g
- Vitamin A: 31 micrograms (mcg)
- Vitamin C: 101.3 mcg
- Calcium: 33 mg
- Iron: 0.9 mg
- Phosphorus: 23 mg
- Potassium: 363 mg
With its high levels of vitamin C and vitamin A, Kei apple can significantly bolster the immune system. It contains several essential minerals that play an important role in maintaining bone health and preventing bone diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Kei Apple
Inflammation in the body can contribute to several chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Kei apple has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing inflammation and stiffness in the body. Research indicates that Kei apple’s anti-inflammatory effect is attributed to the presence of flavonoids, which are plant-derived antioxidants.
Bone Health Effects
Kei apple is loaded with calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are critical minerals for bone health. Incorporating Kei apple into your diet can help to promote bone growth, prevent the onset of osteoporosis, and improve overall bone health.
Food Combining and Dietary Advice
Kei apple is an excellent fruit to eat on its own or mixed with other fruits. When combining Kei apple with other foods, it is best to avoid pairing it with protein or starchy foods, as this may slow down digestion and cause bloating or stomach discomfort. Ideally, Kei apple should be consumed at least 30 minutes before, or 2-3 hours after a meal to benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties fully.
A Unique Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipe
For an anti-inflammatory smoothie packed with essential nutrients, try the following:
- One banana
- 1/2 cup of blueberries
- 1/4 cup of sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup of raspberries
- 1 tsp of honey
- 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup of crushed ice
- 1 Kei apple, sliced
Add all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. This smoothie is refreshing, delicious, and packed with anti-inflammatory properties designed to help reduce inflammation throughout your body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, including Kei apple in your diet can provide you with several essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, calcium, and phosphorus. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent addition to any diet, especially for individuals with chronic conditions such as arthritis. To gain maximum benefits from Kei apple’s anti-inflammatory properties, it’s best to consume it alone or mixed with other fruits instead of with protein or starchy foods.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruit section [hyperlink fruit section here], or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section, where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.
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