2023-07-28 17:02:22
“He ascorbic acid, known as vitamin Cis a nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy,” said the National Cancer Institute (NCI) from the United States to the National Geographic digital portal. This vitamin is found in all fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, leafy greens, and potatoes.
However, from the exclusive list, only one fruit is considered to have the highest vitamin C components: the acerola. Under the scientific name of Malpighia emarginata, also known as “Barbados cherry” o “West Indian cherry”It is a small fruit similar to a cherry.
The acerola shrub flourishes in warm, tropical climates. It is cultivated since Mexico and Central Americauntil reaching the north of South America and the entire CaribbeanBesides the India. Among those countries, Brazil stands out as one of the largest producers. The fruits are small, between 1 and 4 centimeters in diameter and weigh between 2 and 15 grams. Once ripe, the skin of the fruit is red, the study specifies.
The acerola contains an exorbitant amount of ascorbic acid, in addition to other phytonutrients such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins and carotenoids. In this regard, it has 50 and 100 times more vitamin C content than other fruits like orange or lemon. Unfortunately, the flavor of the fruit is of remarkable acidity, with a certain sour taste, which is why it is recommended to use it effectively in preparations.
Being a tropical fruit, exclusively, it is difficult to grow in the country. In addition to the fact that it is little known and its preparation in food is not widespread, the acerola is not in great demand in the domestic market. On the other hand, cultivation tests are being carried out in the EEA Yuto of the INTA of Jujuy, in the EEA the Colorado Formosa and there are experiences in the province of Missions.
Among the preparations with the fruit, acerola juice is recommended, which is consumed to combat anemia, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, liver problems, rheumatism, dysentery, tuberculosis, in northern regions of Brazil and the Caribbean. It is recommended for its preparation to remove the seeds and combine the smoothie with another fruit, such as banana or apple, to improve the flavor. Another highly requested variant is the acerola jam, which is suggested to boil the fruit previously for its preparation.
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