If you’re looking for a new way to add anti-inflammatory foods to your diet, look no further than jícara. This fruit has been used for centuries in Latin American cultures for its health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties, bone health effects, and nutritional value.

What is Jícara?

Jícara is a small, spherical fruit that is about the size of a small apple. It is typically eaten when it is still green and has a hard outer shell that needs to be removed before consumption. The inside of the fruit is filled with a jelly-like substance that has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

Jícara is native to Latin American countries and is widely consumed in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia. The fruit is known by many different names, depending on the region. In some regions, it is called “calabash,” while in others, it is called “hongos” or “mate.”

Nutritional Value

One of the most significant benefits of jícara is its high nutritional value. According to the US Nutritional Database, one cup of jícara contains:

• 58 calories
• 14 grams of carbohydrates
• 1 gram of protein
• 5 grams of fiber
• 63% of your daily requirement for Vitamin C
• 22% of your daily requirement for Vitamin B6
• 10% of your daily requirement for Vitamin A
• 5% of your daily requirement for Iron

The high Vitamin C content makes jícara a great choice for boosting the immune system. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that helps maintain healthy skin, bones, and connective tissue.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

One of the most notable benefits of jícara is its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response by the body to injury, infection, or other harmful stimuli. However, chronic inflammation is linked to a range of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

Jícara contains a range of anti-inflammatory compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These compounds work together to reduce inflammation in the body and protect against chronic disease. In fact, studies have shown that jícara can be effective in reducing inflammation in people with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Bone Health

Another benefit of jícara is its potential impact on bone health. The fruit is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are all essential minerals for healthy bones.

Calcium is especially important for bone health, as it is the primary mineral that makes up bones and teeth. Studies have shown that consuming calcium-rich foods like jícara can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other bone conditions, especially in women.

Food Combining

For maximum anti-inflammatory benefits, it’s important to pair jícara with other anti-inflammatory foods. Some great options include leafy greens like kale and spinach, berries like blueberries and raspberries, and nuts and seeds like walnuts and chia seeds.

To make a delicious and anti-inflammatory smoothie, combine jícara with 1 cup of kale, ½ cup of blueberries, 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, and 1 cup of almond milk. Blend until smooth and enjoy!

Conclusion

Jícara is an anti-inflammatory superfruit that offers a range of health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties, bone health effects, and nutritional value. By incorporating jícara into your diet, you can support a healthy immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote strong bones.

If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, be sure to 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 you come back again soon!