The Surinam cherry (also known as the Barbados Cherry) is a warm season fruit that is closely related to other types of cherries and contains an abundance of nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing about eight times the amount found in oranges; it also contains Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, and E. In addition, the flesh of this fruit is rich in dietary fiber, manganese, potassium, magnesium, calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus and zinc. All these vitamins and minerals make the Surinam cherry good for overall health, particularly when incorporated into a balanced diet.
Surinam cherries may offer a range of benefits. The high levels of antioxidants contained in the fruit—especially Vitamin C—help protect against conditions such as arthritis, asthma, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Additionally, they can help reduce inflammation and protect skin health. Furthermore, studies have shown that consuming foods with additional vitamin C content, like the Surinam cherry, helps boost immunity by increasing white blood cell counts. Finally, by supplying essential amino acids, this type of fruit also offers some protein needed for proper functioning of the body's cells. In conclusion, the Surinam cherry is a good source of vitamins and boasts plenty of benefits for human health.
Introduction
The Surinam cherry, scientifically known as Pitanga ou Eugenia Uniflora, is a small fruit native to the tropical regions of South America that has recently become increasingly popular in nutrition and health circles. The intense red and juicy nature of Surinam cherries makes them particularly palatable, making them ideal ingredients for tea, preserves, jams and jellies, juices and cocktails. In addition to boasting ample vitamin content, the Surinam cherry also contains several beneficial minerals, leading researchers and consumers to further examine their potential medicinal uses. This document will summarize the varied vitamins found within Surinam cherries and expound on their nutritional value, strengths, weaknesses and recommended daily allowances (RDA).
Vitamins in Surinam Cherries
Surinam cherries contain six essential vitamins: Vitamin A, B2, B3, B6, C and E. Each of these vitamins performs crucial functions necessary for human survival and optimal functioning, including normal cell growth, protection against free radicals, and healthy metabolism of carbohydrates.
Vitamin A:
Surinam cherries are an excellent source of vitamin A, with one cup containing over five times the RDA for this important nutrient. Vitamin A helps maintain eyesight and skin health and support immune system function. Adequate levels of vitamin A intake can help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, due to its role in controlling inflammation associated with both diseases.
Vitamin B2:
Containing approximately four times the recommended RDA per cup, Surinam cherries boast significant amounts of vitamin B2. Also known as riboflavin, this vitamin plays a key role in energy production by converting carbohydrates into usuable energy. Additionally, it assists in maintaining bodily tissue, enhancing cellular development and metabolic functioning. Deficiencies of riboflavin have been linked to migraine headaches, fatigue and weak immunity.
Vitamin B3:
One cup of Surinam cherries supplies 15 percent of one’s daily needs of niacin, or vitamin B3. Niacin helps regulate cholesterol levels and contributes to strong bones and muscularity. It is critical to proper nerve functioning and brain activity. Like other B-complex vitamins, deficiencies in niacin lead to an enlarged liver and extreme exhaustion that can be relieved through supplementation.
Vitamin B6:
Known medically as pyridoxine, vitamin B6 is another vital component present in adequate amounts inside Surinam cherries. Per one cup serving, one receives almost three times the daily RDA for this indispensable nutrient. This incredible concentration aids in processing amino acids, which form proteins within the body. It also assists in hormone regulation, carbohydrate metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Consequently, vitamin B6 supports healthy digestion, maintains regular muscle contractions and boosts the immune system.
Vitamin C:
A single cup grant 27 milligrams of vitamin C, fulfilling 45% of the RDA for this powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. Although this amount may not seem substantial, it could provide great benefits when consumed consistently over a long period of time. Vitamin C strengthens the body’s ability to fight fevers, infections, illness and free-radical damage, and it promotes iron absorption. Additionally, high doses of vitamin C paired with zinc supplementation shorten the duration of cold symptoms while potentially reducing the severity.
Vitamin E:
Surinam cherries supply nearly 5 percent of the RDA for this all-important antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful UV radiation exposure and preventing oxidative stress. Studies indicate that consumption of foods rich in vitamin E adds extra insulation against cancer, Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular diseases. As a result, experts recommend obtaining roughly 10 - 15 milligrams per day for maximum wellness advantages.
Conclusion
Surinam cherries contain a sophisticated amalgamation of valuable vitamins including A, B2, B3, B6, C and E. Comprehending the scope of nutrition gleaned within each piece of produce reveals the importance of regularly consuming fruits and vegetables. Due to Surinam cherries' easily consumable size, tart flavor and balanced level of natural sweetness, they make a helpful snack or classic dessert that conveniently provides unsuspecting health benefits.
Vitamin A | 0.075 mg | |
Vitamin C | 0.0263 grams | |
Vitamin B1 | 0.03 mg | |
Vitamin B2 | 0.04 mg | |
Vitamin B3 | 0.3 mg |