Also known as graviolathe soursop gains more popularity every day thanks to its health benefits.
This large, oval tropical fruit, with a exterior covered in thornshides large inedible black seeds and white pulp inside. sweet and tropical flavorsimilar to a cross between mango and pineapple with a bittersweet touch which some describe as a mix of strawberry and apple.
Despite being similar to custard apple because they both belong to the same family (that of the Annonaceae), is much larger (it usually weighs between 3 and 4 kilos) and has a more bittersweet flavor and a more fibrous texture, in addition to some differences when it comes to nutritional composition.
Origin of soursop
The soursop (Annona muricata) It is native to tropical areas of South America and the Caribbean and it is still rare to find it in the markets of Spain, although it can be obtained by order or in specialized stores.
Soursop is grown in some areas of the Canary Islands and in Granada and Malaga tests are being carried out to check the adaptation to the terrain, but the one found in our country It is usually importedat very high prices.
In addition to selling fresh fruit, it can be found in nutritional supplements or infusions.
soursop: Nutritional properties
Soursop is rich in fiber and a good source of vitaminsespecially vitamin Calthough it also provides good amounts of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 and B9 (folic acid).
It also contains interesting amounts of minerals such as potassium and magnesium forks rich in antioxidants: phytosterols, tannins, flavonoids, lutein, quercetin and tangeretin.
Plus, it doesn’t provide too many calories, just 66 kcal per 100 grams of fruit.
soursop: Health benefits
Soursop has been traditionally used for therapeutic purposes due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial propertiesand not only the fruit, also the leaves and stems. Its richness in fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants make soursop an excellent option to include in a healthy diet.
Its richness in vitamin C and other antioxidants helps strengthen the immune systemprotects cells from oxidative damage and can help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent some diseases. One of these antioxidants, luteinis especially important for the eye health and may be beneficial in reducing the risk of developing eye diseases such as cataracts or age-related macular degeneration.
On the other hand, the high fiber content of soursop favors a good digestion and can help regulate glucose levels in blood, which makes it a good option for people with diabetes.
In recent years, it has been studied whether soursop extract could have protective effects against cancer and, although the results are inconclusive, some studies indicate that soursop leaf extract could kill cancer cells. There is also research suggesting that soursop can help stabilize blood pressure or prevent ulcersamong other benefits.
soursop: Contraindications
Some research suggests that some compounds in soursop, known as anonaceous acetogenins, may have neurotoxic effects when consumed in large doses and cause symptoms such as:
- Muscle stiffness.
- Slowness in movements.
- Balance problems.
- Changes in personality.
- Alterations in eye movement.
Additionally, soursop supplements may interfere with some medications (such as some that are prescribed for hypertension, depression or diabetes), so before taking them it is always a good idea to consult your doctor.
More information:
Mutakin M, Fauziati R, Fadhilah FN, Zuhrotun A, Amalia R, Hadisaputri YE. Pharmacological Activities of Soursop (Annona muricata Lin.). Molecules. 2022 Feb 10;27(4):1201.