Acerola, also known as the Barbados cherry, is a tropical fruit that is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a wide variety of health benefits. In this guide, we’ll explore the many anti-inflammatory benefits of acerola, including its effects on bone health, immune system function, and more.

Why Acerola Is Good for You

Acerola is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One cup of acerola (approximately 100 grams) contains the following:

• Calories: 31
• Protein: 0.4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 7.7 grams
• Fiber: 1.1 grams
• Fat: 0.3 grams
• Vitamin C: 1648% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 767% of the DV
• Vitamin B6: 5% of the DV
• Magnesium: 4% of the DV
• Potassium: 3% of the DV

As you can see, acerola is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

The Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Acerola

One of the primary benefits of acerola is its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is an immune response that can help protect the body from infection and injury. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

Acerola contains a variety of anti-inflammatory compounds, including carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin C. These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

Acerola and Bone Health

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, acerola is also beneficial for bone health. Acerola is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis, a protein that gives structure to bones.

Acerola also contains magnesium, which is also important for bone health. Magnesium plays a role in bone formation and can help prevent osteoporosis.

Acerola and the Immune System

Acerola is also great for the immune system. As we mentioned earlier, acerola is packed with vitamin C, which is vital for immune function. Vitamin C helps produce white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infection.

In addition to vitamin C, acerola also contains vitamin A, which plays a critical role in immune function. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes, which act as a barrier against infection.

Food Combining and Dietary Advice

When it comes to incorporating acerola into your diet, it’s important to consider food combining. Acerola is a high-acid fruit, which means it can be acidic on the stomach. To aid digestion and maximize nutrient absorption, it’s best to pair acerola with other alkaline foods.

For example, you could add acerola to a smoothie with alkaline greens like spinach, kale, and cucumber. Alternatively, you could serve acerola with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa.

It’s also worth noting that while acerola is low in calories and fat, it is relatively high in sugar. For this reason, it’s best to consume acerola in moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

An Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipe

Looking for a tasty way to incorporate acerola into your anti-inflammatory diet? Try this delicious smoothie recipe:

• 1 cup frozen acerola
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp. chia seeds
• 1 tsp. honey (optional)

Simply blend all ingredients until smooth and enjoy. This smoothie is refreshing, energizing, and packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients.

Conclusion

Acerola is a delicious and nutrient-dense fruit that offers a wide range of health benefits. From its anti-inflammatory effects to its ability to promote bone health and boost the immune system, acerola is a true superfood. So next time you’re at the grocery store or local farmer’s market, be sure to pick up some fresh acerola and enjoy all the health benefits it has to offer.

If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruits section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you back soon!