5 surprising health benefits of Agbalumo

• African cherry is a nutrient-dense fruit packed with antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals that support overall body health
• Known locally as Agbalumo in the southwest and Udara in the southeast, this fruit boasts a distinctive sweet and sour taste that's both refreshing and delicious
• TheRadar highlighted five amazing health benefits of cherries, including aiding weight management, regulating blood sugar levels, and supporting heart health.

The African cherry, also known as the African star apple, locally called Agbalumo in the Southwest or Udara in the Southeast, is a nutrient-rich fruit that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

While some people may find its sweet-sour taste and occasional maggot inhabitants off-putting, the fruit is a game-changer. 

Nigeria is currently in the midst of the African cherry season, and while it is available, the fruit is most pleasing to indulge in during the rainy season. The rain somehow lessens the fruit's sour feeling, making it a refreshing and nutritious snack. But beyond its unique taste, Agbalumo has shocking health benefits. 

TheRadar compiled the top five health benefits of the African cherry

Five health benefits of Agbalumo

 1. Aids weight management 

The African cherry is a nutrient-rich fruit that has proven to support weight management. With its impressively low-calorie count and high fibre content, this fruit is the perfect snack to keep one feeling full and satisfied, reducing the appetite and helping an individual reach their healthy weight goals.

According to Kerby Walter, incorporating the African cherry into your diet can have a significant impact on one's eating diet. "Cherries are a good source of fibre, and high-fibre diets have been linked to weight loss, per a study. fibre has a satiating effect, helping you feel fuller for longer and preventing overeating.."

2. Improves reproductive health

The African cherry boosts human reproductive health. The antioxidant properties Chrysophyllum albidum have been shown to improve sperm development, testosterone levels, and even alleviate erectile dysfunction. 

As an added bonus, its fibre content will help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes and hypertension - two major risk factors for reproductive health issues. According to research, “Chrysophyllum albidum improved sperm quality in hypertensive rats by increasing sperm count, sperm motility with a concomitant reduction in sperm abnormality.”

3. Reduce blood sugar level

African cherry has been found to possess properties that may help reduce blood sugar levels, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Research suggests that cherries contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants responsible for the fruit's deep red colour. 

These antioxidants have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reducing blood sugar levels and inflammation in the body. Additionally, cherries are rich in fibre, which slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

According to Roma Kunde; “Evidence suggests that African star apple pulp can lower blood sugar levels and act as an effective dietary supplement to manage diabetes. The fruit contains high amounts of fibre, which lowers blood sugar. It also contains natural antioxidants that fight oxidative damage and prevent diabetes.”

4. Improves heart health

The African cherry is a heart-healthy fruit that's rich in potassium, an essential nutrient that helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack. Its fibre content will also help lower cholesterol levels, further supporting heart health.

Kathleen Zelman testifies that the fruit has antioxidants like flavonoids, and vitamins E, C, and A, which shield cells from oxidative damage. The fruit's glycosides also combat heart disease, while its low sodium and high potassium content make it an excellent snack for those with high blood pressure. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help prevent heart disease and stroke, further boosting cardiovascular well-being.

6. Aids with constipation

Agbalumo offers significant benefits in alleviating constipation, a common digestive issue that affects many people, leading to discomfort and distress. 

It is particularly rich in dietary fibre, which is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements. fibre helps to add bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass. This is especially important for those suffering from constipation, as a diet low in fibre can lead to hard and difficult-to-pass stools. 

The fibre found in African cherry functions by absorbing water in the intestines, thus softening the stool and reducing the risk of straining during bowel movements—a common experience for many facing constipation. By incorporating African cherry into one’s diet, individuals can enhance their fibre intake, which is often lacking in many typical diets. 

In conclusion, the African cherry is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a spot in your diet. With its weight loss, reproductive health, constipation-fighting, immune-boosting, and heart health benefits, this fruit is a game-changer for one’s overall health and well-being. 

African cherry can be enjoyed in a range of ways— a healthy snack or a refreshing smoothie.

11 reasons you should start adding bitter leaf to your diet

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported why you should add bitter leaf, a leafy green with a distinct bitter taste, to your diet. 

They include a high nutrient profile, the ability to boost the immune system, aid in weight loss, improve digestive health, and more.