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Jabuticaba (Brazilian Portuguese: [ʒabutʃiˈkabɐ]) is the edible fruit of the jabuticabeira (Plinia cauliflora) or Brazilian grapetree. The purplish-black, white-pulped fruit grows directly on the trunk of the tree. It is eaten raw or used to make jellies, jams, juice or wine.[3] The tree, of the family Myrtaceae, is native to the states of Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Goiás and São Paulo in Brazil.[4][5] Related species in the genus Myrciaria, often referred to by the same common names, are native to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru and Bolivia.[6] - Wikipedia
The Benefits of Jabuticaba for Our Body:
Jabuticaba fruit, or Plinia cauliflora, is one of those fruits that may be lesser-known outside of Brazil, but it comes with numerous incredible health benefits. It grows on trees with a unique characteristic – the fruit grows directly on the trunk, resembling grapes on a vine. Aside from its delicious taste, here are some of the benefits of jabuticaba fruit for our body:
1. Rich in Antioxidants:
Jabuticaba fruit contains a significant amount of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and polyphenolic compounds. These antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, which can damage cells and lead to various diseases.
2. Boosts Immune System:
The vitamin C in jabuticaba fruit supports our immune system. It helps the body fight infections and illnesses, as well as speeds up the healing process.
3. Supports Heart Health:
Jabuticaba fruit is also rich in fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and controlling blood pressure.
4. Promotes Skin Health:
The antioxidants in jabuticaba fruit help protect the skin from UV damage and premature aging. It can also improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
5. Supports Eye Health: The vitamin A content in jabuticaba is crucial for eye health. It can help maintain good vision and prevent eye problems such as night blindness.
6. Enhances Brain Function:
This fruit contains various essential nutrients like the B-complex vitamins and minerals like copper and zinc. This can help enhance brain function, including concentration and memory.
7. Blood Sugar Control:
Jabuticaba contains polyphenolic compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels. This is good news for those with diabetes or at high risk.
8. Aids Digestion:
Jabuticaba fruit also contains beneficial dietary fiber for digestion. This fiber helps maintain a healthy gut and prevents constipation.
9. Promotes Oral Health:
Some studies suggest that jabuticaba extract can reduce dental plaque and address gum issues, supporting overall oral health.
10. Refreshes the Body:
Apart from its health benefits, jabuticaba fruit has a delicious and refreshing taste. This makes it a great choice for a healthy and revitalizing snack.
To enjoy these health benefits, you can consume jabuticaba fruit fresh or process it into juice, jams, or marmalades. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy it, jabuticaba fruit is a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet. So, don't hesitate to try this fruit rich in health benefits to boost your overall well-being.
Effects of Consuming Jabuticaba
Conditions where a person should not consume Jabuticaba
Although jabuticaba fruit has many health benefits, there are some conditions and situations where a person should not consume it or limit its consumption. Here are some examples of these conditions:
1. Allergies:
As with other fruits, some people may have allergies to jabuticaba. If you have a history of food allergies or allergic reactions after consuming certain fruits, it is important to be careful and consult a doctor before trying jabuticaba.
2. Gastric or Digestive Problems:
Jabuticaba fruit contains fiber which is good for digestion, but for some people with digestive problems or sensitivities, consuming excessive amounts of this fruit can cause digestive disorders such as diarrhea or gas.
3. Blood Sugar Control:
Although jabuticaba can help control blood sugar, those with diabetes should still pay attention to their carbohydrate and sugar intake in this fruit. Consult a doctor or nutritionist about safe ways to consume them in your diet plan.
4. Special Dietary Restrictions:
People who have special diets or certain medical conditions such as kidney failure that require certain restrictions in food may need to limit their consumption of jabuticaba due to its nutritional content.
5. Drug Interactions:
Some types of drugs can interact with certain fruits. If you are taking certain medications, especially medications that affect blood sugar or blood pressure, consult your doctor to ensure that consuming jabuticaba is safe.
Effects of Consuming Excessive Jabuticaba
The effects of excessive consumption of jabuticaba, as with excessive consumption of other foods or drinks, can cause several health problems. Some possible excessive effects include:
1. Obesity:
Excessive consumption of jabuticaba fruit or other sweet foods can cause weight gain if not balanced with sufficient physical activity.
2. Digestive Disorders:
Too much fiber in the diet, including from jabuticaba, can cause digestive disorders such as diarrhea, flatulence, or stomach cramps.
3. Blood Sugar Rise:
If you have problems with high blood sugar or diabetes, consuming excessive amounts of jabuticaba may cause an undesirable rise in blood sugar.
To maintain optimal health, it is always important to eat foods in balance and in moderate amounts, and to consult a doctor or nutritionist if you have specific concerns about your diet or a medical condition that may affect how you consume certain foods.
Nutrients contained in Jabuticaba
The following is a list of nutrients contained in jabuticaba fruit along with their nutritional value per 100 grams:
Energy
- Calories: 69 kcal
- Calories from fat: 2 kcal
Carbohydrate
- Sugar: 13.3 grams
- Fiber: 3.4 grams
Water: 80.7 grams
Protein: 1.2 grams
Fat
- Total fat: 0.2 grams
- Saturated fat: 0.02 grams
- Monounsaturated fat: 0.08 grams
- Polyunsaturated fat: 0.08 grams
Vitamin
- Vitamin C: 26.2 milligrams
- Vitamin A: 14 micrograms
- Vitamin B1: 0.03 milligrams
- Vitamin B2: 0.02 milligrams
- Vitamin B3: 0.2 milligrams
- Vitamin B5: 0.02 milligrams
- Vitamin B6: 0.02 milligrams
- Vitamin B9: 13 micrograms
Mineral
- Potassium: 240 milligrams
- Calcium: 20 milligrams
- Phosphorus: 20 milligrams
- Magnesium: 10 milligrams
- Iron: 0.3 milligrams
- Zinc: 0.1 milligram
- Manganese: 0.03 milligrams
Jabuticaba fruit is a fruit that is low in calories and fat, but high in vitamin C, fiber and potassium. This fruit is also a source of vitamin A, vitamin B complex, and other important minerals.
