Discover the Health Benefits of the Miracle Fruit : Synsepalum Dulcificum

The miracle fruit, named Synsepalum dulcificum is a bright red cherry and its size is similar to that of a coffee bean.^{(1, 2)} The fruit is mainly found in Central and West Africa, including the countries of Nigeria, Congo, and Ghana, however, now it is gaining popularity across the globe because of its significant health benefits.^{(1, 2, 3, 4, 5)}

Let us know why the fruit is known as a miracle fruit. The miracle fruit is also known as red berry and is rich in a type of glycoprotein, namely Miraculin, which is a protein with sugar molecules that are attached to amino acids.^{(1, 2, 4, 6)} The miraculin glycoprotein binds to taste receptors found near the sweet receptor sites in the mouth, thus sweetening the taste of sour or acidic foods like lemons, vinegar, and mustard. These changes in taste last for 30 minutes, or until they are diluted by saliva. This feels exclusively miraculous.^{(1, 3)}

The miracle fruit offers some of the most amazing health benefits and we will be taking a look at these benefits in the following array of the article. So, read further to discover the health benefits as well as side effects of the miracle fruit.

Miracle fruit is an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. It also contains amino acids that are responsible to regulate different functions of the body. The fruit is low on calories and it comes with an array of polyphenolic compounds, and antioxidants, which fight against free radicals and prevent several chronic health conditions.

Because of the rich components present in the fruit, it benefits in preventing various diseases and improving overall well-being.

Many animal studies have suggested that the miracle fruit might help in reducing metabolic stress related to various conditions, such as cancer, obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and many more.⁽⁴⁾ Check below to know more about the health benefits of miracle fruit.

1. Helps In Managing Blood Sugar Levels

   Some studies in rats have shown that both the fruit and leaves of the plant may increase the production of insulin and insulin sensitivity, and thus benefit in improving the management of blood sugar levels.^{(1, 3, 5)} However, stronger studies in humans are required to confirm this benefit in human beings.

2. Boosts Immunity

   Another health benefit of miracle fruits is that they help in enhancing immunity. These fruits are an important source of vitamin C, which enhances immunity against various bacterial and viral infections. So, consuming these fruits daily could help in the production of WBC and also help in enhancing your immunity.

3. Help To Improve Symptoms Of Gout

   One of the major health benefits of miracle fruit is that it helps in improving symptoms of gout. Animal and laboratory studies have suggested that miracle fruit extracts might help in improving levels of blood uric acid, which can result in gout when they are extremely high. So, this fruit can serve as an important treatment for gout.^{(1, 3)} However, further research is needed to confirm how miracle fruit achieves these effects.

4. It Helps In Weight Loss

   Every one of us is concerned about maintaining a healthy weight. If you too are struggling with weight loss, then add miracle fruit to your diet. These fruits are the natural sugar-free additives to your diet and when you crave something sweet after your meal, eating these fruits could be beneficial. The fruits not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also benefit you in losing weight because of their low-calorie content.

5. Helps In Improving Vision

   Miracle fruit can also help in improving your vision. The fruit contains a rich amount of vitamin A, and this vitamin is essential for protecting your vision. You should include these fruits in your regular diet or at least consume them twice a week. The fruits can prevent macular degeneration and cataract formation that occurs at an early age.

6. Can Prevent Cancer

   Some parts of miracle fruits are loaded with flavonoids and terpenoids, and they might have cancer-preventing abilities.^{(1, 4)} Apart from this, the miracle fruit is rich in an antioxidant named episyringaresnol, which slows the aging process and can prevent skin cancer. However, further research in this regard is essential.

Some of the noted side effects of the miracle fruit are listed below.

Consuming more amount of miracle fruits can enable you to consume more sweet food that changes to sour. This way you consume more sour foods and it can cause high levels of acidity in your body.

The fruit can also result in heartburn and various gastrointestinal distress. So, always make sure to consume the miracle fruit in moderate amounts.

Miracle fruit is truly a miracle and you should add this fruit in your diet to remain healthy and free from diseases. However, make sure to eat the fruit in moderation and not in excess amounts to keep yourself free from its side effects.

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