The plant that produces soursop is scientifically named Annona muricata Lin. It belongs to the Custard apples (Annonaceae) group of plants. It is a source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, which could be beneficial for the blood sugar level, inflammation, as well as digestive health. Human research on soursop is not extensive; therefore, its specific benefits have not been confirmed.
Also referred to as graviola, guanabana, or Brazilian paw-paw. Soursop is a huge and spiny fruit that has a distinct sweet and sour taste and a creamy texture. It has been used in traditional treatments for conditions like nerve inflammation, arthritis, and diarrhea.
1. It has been demonstrated to regulate blood sugar
Soursop could help in managing blood sugar levels, but research on the subject is limited. A study carried out in the laboratory in vitro(in the laboratory) discovered that extracts from the fruit block enzymes that aid in breaking down sugars and carbohydrates to glucose (sugar). This can reduce the speed at which your body absorbs glucose, which can help lower glucose levels in your blood. Further research on humans is required to prove this claim.
2. Aids in Inflammation Reduction
Soursop is a potent in vitamin C with 46.4 milligrams per cup. Vitamin C-rich diets have been proven to decrease inflammation. Soursop can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from inflammatory conditions like arthritis or IBD. (IBD).
3. Potential Antimicrobial Qualities
Research has proven that soursop might be able to rid from harmful bacteria. A study carried out by in vitro HTML1 found that the leaf extract of soursop proved to be efficient on Streptococcus in the presence of Streptococcus(the bacteria that cause oral infection. Further human studies are required to verify the antibacterial qualities of soursop.
4. Could Reduce Blood Pressure
Soursop is a rich source of bioactive chemicals that can reduce blood pressure. Some evidence suggests that these compounds inhibit an enzyme called angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE), which regulates blood pressure levels.
A study of 143 patients who suffered from Borderline Hypertension (high blood pressure) observed that the use of 7 ounces of soursop fruit juice per day for 3 months decreased blood pressure levels by a third when compared to the control group.
Incorporating soursop-based products into your diet could help lower blood pressure levels and guard from high blood pressure. The research into soursop’s possible blood pressure-lowering effects is not extensive. Further studies are required to determine its significance in the management of blood pressure.
5. Could Destroy Cancer Cells
Soursop is a rich source of Acetogenins. Some studies suggest have potent anti-cancer properties. It is also high in flavonoids and alkaloids, both of which could possess antioxidant and anticancer properties. A review found that animals, as well as in vitro studies, have proven that the extract of soursop helps fight cancerous cells. Further human studies are needed in order to fully comprehend how soursop affects cancer treatment.
6. Packed with Antioxidants
Soursop is a potent source of antioxidants that can help improve overall health. Antioxidants guard cells against harm from free radicals. If free radicals overpower the body’s defenses, they cause an increase in oxidative stress, which increases the chance of developing aging and illness. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and minimize damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA.
Soursop is rich in plant compounds that protect, such as sesquiterpenes and phenolic compounds, acetogenins, and alkaloids. Phenolic compounds, such as coumaric Acid, are potent antioxidants.
7. Promotes Digestive Wellbeing
Soursop is rich in fiber and is crucial for digestive health. One cup of raw soursop contains 7.42 grams of fiber, which is 26.5 percent of your daily requirements for fiber. The fruit is loaded with both soluble and insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber, which travels through your digestive tract intact and helps bulk up stools to help regulate the flow of bowels. Soluble fiber draws water to the stools, making them more comfortable and easier to pass.
A diet rich in fiber may guard against a range of illnesses which including gastrointestinal cancers. One study showed that eating a diet high in fiber reduces the risk of developing stomach cancer and colorectal cancer.
Profile of Nutrition
Soursop is high in potassium, copper, as well as vitamin C. The body requires copper to support red blood cell production, as well as development and growth as well as neurotransmitter synthesis, and energy production.
Potassium helps in muscle contraction and regulates blood pressure. Insufficient potassium intake can increase the chance of developing coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. Soursop is also a source of folate, iron, magnesium, and many other nutrients, all vital for overall health.
Hazards
Although soursop is a nutritious food, its acetogenin-containing compounds could cause harm. Acetogenins are anticancer agents however, they are dangerous in large quantities. There is evidence that suggests that eating soursop for a long time could cause an increase in the likelihood of developing atypical Parkinsonism. This type of neurological condition is similar to Parkinson’s disease.
Consumption of regularly occurring amounts of soursop and other fruits that contain acetogenin could increase the severity of degenerative Parkinsonism, which includes Parkinson’s disease. It is necessary to conduct more research, however, it’s recommended to limit your consumption of soursop. Consult a doctor prior to consuming soursop if you suffer from a neurological disorder.
Advice for Eating Guanabana
Soursop is very popular in specific areas like South America and the Caribbean in where people often utilize it in recipes such as jams, ice cream jellies, candies, or in the form of juice. It is a soft texture and sweet taste commonly described as a mix of strawberry, apple, and citrus. It is possible to buy soursop at specialist stores, farmers’ markets, or even online.
Soursop seeds and fruit can be poisonous, so you should be careful when consuming soursop fruit. Here’s how to make raw soursop:
- Select a soursop that has a green skin with a yellowish hue that is soft to the touch, which means it’s mature and ready for eating.
- Soursops should be washed under running water to get rid of any dirt
- Make use of a knife to cut the skin off the flesh
- Slice the fruits in half, lengthwise. Then scoop the seeds out.
- Take the fruit in its raw form or make ice cream, juice, sorbet, smoothies, or juices.
A Brief Overview
Soursop is a tropical fruit high in nutrients, which include antioxidants, fiber, as well as Vitamin C. It can be beneficial in reducing inflammation, blood sugar, and digestion.
The fruit is loaded with compounds that could be toxic when consumed in large amounts; therefore, it is important to take soursop with caution. Contact a physician for any health issues, such as Parkinson’s disease, before you consume soursop. It is possible that the fruit is not safe for people suffering from neurological conditions.