Soursop, also known as graviola, is a large, green, spiny fruit native to Central and South America. The fruit has a sweet, white flesh that is often used in desserts and drinks.
Soursop is known for its many health benefits. The most notable health benefit of soursop is its cancer-fighting properties. It contains compounds that have been shown to kill cancer cells by targeting the energy production of cancer cells, which eventually leads to cell death.
Soursop has also been shown to be effective against other types of diseases, including malaria, hepatitis, and arthritis. Additionally, soursop is high in antioxidants and vitamins, which can boost the immune system and help protect against various diseases.
Soursop is also a good source of dietary fibre that is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It is also a good source of vitamins B and C, which are important for maintaining energy levels and boosting the immune system.
Why is it called soursop?
The scientific name for soursop is Annona muricata. The fruit is also known by other names such as graviola, guanabana, and Brazilian pawpaw. The name soursop is derived from the sour taste of the fruit. The word soursop is thought to be a combination of the words sour and soap.
What is the nutritional value of soursop?
The nutrient value of 225 g of soursop according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is as follows:
Carbohydrate: 37.89 g
Fibre: 7.42 g
Sugars: 30.46 g
Fat: 0.675 g
Carotene, beta: 2.25 mcg
Folate: 31.50 mcg
Vitamin C: 46.4 mg
Choline: 17.1 mg
Calcium: 31.50 mg
Magnesium: 47.25 mg
Phosphorous: 60.75 mg
Potassium: 625.50 mg
What are the health benefits of soursop?
There is some evidence to suggest that soursop may offer health benefits. Here are five potential health benefits of soursop:
1. May boost immune function.
Vitamin C is a well-known immune booster, and soursop is a good source of this vitamin. Soursop also contains a variety of other nutrients that may help keep the immune system functioning properly.
2. May help prevent cancer
Soursop contains a substance called annonacin, which is thought to have anti-cancer properties. In test-tube studies, annonacin has been shown to kill cancer cells. However, it needs to be clarified if soursop can provide the same benefit to humans.
3. Helps lower blood pressure
There are a few ways by which soursop may help lower blood pressure. One is by acting as a diuretic; soursop removes excess fluid from the body and thus reduces blood volume. Another is by reducing inflammation throughout the body, which can help lower blood pressure. Soursop also contains annonacin, which has been shown to lower blood pressure in rats. However, it is not clear if this compound has the same effect in humans. Additionally, high levels of antioxidants can protect against damage to the blood vessels and reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
4. Improves digestion
Soursop is a good source of fibre, which is important for digestive health. Annonacin present in soursop has been shown to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
5. Has anti-inflammatory effects
The anti-inflammatory effects of soursop are due to the presence of compounds such as acetogenins, flavonoids, and tannins. These compounds work by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. In addition, soursop also contains antioxidants, which scavenge the free radicals that contribute to inflammation.
Can you eat soursop every day?
It depends on how your body reacts to it and your dietary needs and preferences. Some people may be able to eat soursop every day without any problems, while others may find that eating it too often causes digestive issues or other discomforts.
Does soursop have any side effects?
Soursop is generally considered safe for most people. However, there are some potential side effects that should be considered.
1. Digestive problems: Soursop contains a compound called annonacin, which can be toxic in large amounts. This compound can cause digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to soursop and may experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
3. Interactions with other medications: Soursop may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.
4. Toxicity: Soursop can be toxic in large amounts. Symptoms of toxicity include headaches, dizziness, and hallucinations. Soursop may be toxic due to its high levels of acetogenins, a compound that can interfere with the production of energy in cells.
What can soursop leaves cure?
There is some preliminary evidence that soursop leaves may have medicinal properties. A few studies suggest that compounds in the leaves may have anticancer activity, although more research is needed. Additionally, soursop leaves have traditionally been used to treat other conditions such as fever, pain, and diarrhea. However, there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support these uses.
Who should avoid soursop?
People with kidney or liver problems should avoid soursop as it may exacerbate these conditions. People taking medications that affect the liver or kidneys should also avoid soursop as the fruit may interact with these medications.
When should you eat soursop?
People may have different opinions on the best time to eat soursop. However, it is recommended to eat soursop in the morning or afternoon and avoid it at night.
