Soursop, also known as graviola or custard apple, is a tropical fruit loved for its sweet, tangy flavour and soft, creamy flesh. It is often enjoyed fresh by cutting it open and scooping out the pulp, but it can also be blended into juices or brewed as tea.
Beyond its refreshing taste, soursop carries remarkable healing potential, making it more than just a tropical treat.
Without further ado, here are some of the health benefits of this powerhouse fruit.
- Stabilising blood sugar levels
Soursop has shown potential in helping regulate blood sugar levels. Its hypolipidaemic properties, combined with antioxidant effects and protection of pancreatic β-cells, support healthier glucose metabolism.
In one study, diabetic rats treated with soursop extract for two weeks recorded blood sugar levels up to five times lower than those left untreated.
Another study also found that the extract reduced blood sugar levels in diabetic rats by as much as 75%.
While these results are promising, more research in humans is still needed to confirm the effectiveness of soursop in managing diabetes.
- Rich in antioxidants
Soursop is packed with powerful antioxidants, particularly acetogenins, which play a vital role in supporting overall health.
Antioxidants work by neutralising harmful molecules called free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases.
Research suggests that antioxidants may help lower the risk of conditions like heart disease, support healthy ageing, and protect the body at the cellular level.
Beyond acetogenins, soursop was also found to contain vitamin C, flavonoids (such as luteolin, quercetin, and tangeretin), phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and tannins.
All of these act as antioxidants to strengthen the body’s defence system and fight oxidative stress.
- Aids digestion
Soursop is rich in dietary fibre, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fibre helps keep bowel movements regular, prevents constipation, and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a 1-cup serving of raw soursop provides about 7.4 grams of fibre, covering roughly 26% of the recommended daily intake.
This high fibre content not only promotes smoother digestion but also helps the body absorb nutrients more efficiently, making soursop a natural way to support overall gut health.
- Reduces inflammation
Soursop is a rich source of vitamin C, with 46.4 milligrams per 1 cup.
Meanwhile, diets high in vitamin C have been shown to reduce inflammation.
Inflammation is a normal immune response to injury, but increasing evidence shows that chronic inflammation could contribute to disease
Soursop may be especially helpful for people with inflammatory conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease
A study found that soursop extract reduced swelling in mice by up to 37%.
- Might kill cancer cells
Soursop has gained attention for its potential cancer-fighting properties.
Research has shown that extracts from the fruit contain compounds that may help kill cancer cells in laboratory settings.
In a test-tube study, breast cancer cells were treated with soursop extract. The extract was said to reduce tumour size, kill off cancer cells and enhance the activity of the immune system.
Another test-tube study examined the effects of soursop extract on leukaemia cells, finding that it inhibited the growth and formation of cancer cells.
However, it’s important to note that the studies were conducted in controlled lab environments. More research on humans is still needed before soursop can be confirmed as a safe or effective cancer treatment.
When safely incorporated into a balanced diet, soursop can be enjoyed as a delicious fruit with the potential to support overall wellness.
However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before using it for specific health conditions.
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