Gac: Thailand’s Superfruit Rivaling Goji, With Potential to Fight Cancer and Boost Immunity
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A largely overlooked fruit native to Thailand, gac is rapidly gaining recognition in the nutrition industry as a “superfood” boasting a nutritional profile that rivals, and in certain specific cases surpasses, the globally popular goji berry. Unlike goji, gac is readily available in Thailand, offering a fresh, affordable, and locally-sourced option to imported produce.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
Gac is remarkably low in calories, containing just 31 kilocalories per 100 grams, yet it’s packed with essential nutrients. It delivers a considerable 178 milligrams of vitamin C, considerably more than oranges. Beyond vitamin C, gac is a rich source of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and B vitamins (B1, B2, and niacin).
But the true strength of gac lies in its potent antioxidant content. The fruit contains carotenoids like lycopene and beta-carotene,with beta-carotene levels being an astounding 10 times higher than those found in carrots. Moreover,gac provides beneficial flavonoids,phenolic compounds,good fatty acids,vitamin E,and saponins.
Research Highlights Gac’s Superior Properties
Emerging research underscores gac’s impressive health benefits. The lycopene and beta-carotene present in gac act as powerful antioxidants, combating cell degeneration, slowing the aging process, and promoting healthy skin. Trials indicate consistent gac consumption can improve skin texture by up to 35%.
Gac also plays a crucial role in bolstering the immune system and supporting vision. Its high concentrations of beta-carotene and vitamin C contribute to enhanced immunity and protection against infection, while also promoting eye health.
Gac effectively prevents vitamin A deficiency. In Vietnam, adding gac to rice reversed deficiency symptoms in rural children.
Gac seeds contain cochinin A and B proteins shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and virus-infected cells. thai researchers have patented this discovery and published it in academic journals.
gac supports weight management, being low in fat and high in dietary fiber.
Gac vs. Goji: A Local Champion
While goji berries are a recognized superfood, gac surpasses goji in beta-carotene and lycopene content.
Grown in Thailand, gac offers a fresh, seasonal alternative to imported produce.
Worth a look
