Camu camu v/s acerola cherry: Which has more vitamin C?
What's the story
Move over, oranges and strawberries! There are new sheriffs in town when it comes to vitamin C superfruits: camu camu and acerola cherry.
Hailing from the wilds of the Americas, these fruits have exploded onto the health scene with their off-the-charts benefits.
We've put together a face-off between these two powerhouses, breaking down their nutritional profiles, health benefits, and even how to use them in the kitchen.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C content comparison
Camu Camu holds the record for the highest concentration of vitamin C, containing a staggering 2,000 to 3,000 milligrams per 100 grams of fresh fruit.
Close behind is Acerola Cherry with a robust 1,678 milligrams per 100 grams.
These numbers make both fruits supercharged vitamin C powerhouses, leaving oranges and strawberries in the dust.
Antioxidants
Antioxidant properties explored
Apart from Vitamin C, both fruits boast a high concentration of antioxidants, essential for combating oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Acerola Cherry possesses anthocyanins and quercetin, while Camu Camu is loaded with flavonoids.
These compounds collectively contribute to their potent antioxidant capabilities.
These attributes make them powerful allies in fighting inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Culinary uses
Culinary uses and availability
Due to its sour taste, camu camu is typically consumed in smoothies, juices, or as a powder supplement.
Conversely, acerola cherry, being a bit sweeter, can be enjoyed raw or utilized in jams, jellies, smoothies, and desserts.
While both fruits are available fresh during their respective seasons in native areas, supplements or frozen options are more common in other parts of the world.
Immune health
Impact on immune health
The high concentration of vitamin C in both fruits contributes to their well-established reputation as immune system boosters.
Regular intake can significantly enhance immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems.
Plus, the rich antioxidants help combat inflammation, a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy immune response.
Daily intake
Considerations for daily intake
Adding either fruit to your diet can provide a huge increase in vitamin C, but you should still exercise moderation as both fruits are extremely potent.
Overindulgence can result in gastrointestinal discomfort thanks to their high acidity.
A daily intake ranging from 65 to 90 milligrams is recommended for most adults, meaning even a small portion of these fruits can easily fulfill your daily needs.