Amazing Health Facts On Ackee Fruit
Scientific name Ackee Fruit is called as “ Blighia sapida ”.
Origin Of Ackee Fruit
The ackee tree, which belongs to the family of Sapindaceae ( soapberry ), and typically grown in tropical and subtropical climates.
The ackee is native to West Africa and Guyana and is grown most especially in the western part of Nigeria, called Ishin in Yoruba.
Other Names Of Ackee Fruit
The name Ackee is derived from the West African name “ Akye Fufo ” . Ackee, Akee, Akee Apple, Aki, Savoury Akee Tree, Vegetable Brain.
Appearance Of Ackee Fruit
The fruit is pear-shaped and has 3 lobes (2 – 4 lobes are common).
When it ripens, it turns from green to a bright red to yellow-orange, and splits open to reveal three large, shiny black seeds, each partly surrounded by soft, creamy or spongy, white to yellow flesh — the aril having a nut-like flavor and texture of scrambled eggs.
Taste Of Ackee Fruit
This fruit has a buttery taste and creamy texture. Some people say eating cooked ackee is comparable to eating scrambled eggs.
Varieties Of Ackee Fruit
Ackee found in two main varieties: the yellow-tinged, soft “ butter ackee ” and the cream-colored, hard “ cheese ackee ” . Both types turn yellow when exposed to heat.
Nutritional Content Of Ackee Fruit
100g of Ackee Pulp
Components Amount
Energy 151 Cal
Fat 15.2 g
Carbohydrates 0.8 g
Protein (2.9 – 8.9) g
Total dietary fiber 2.7 g
Sodium 240 mg
Calcium 35 – 83 mg
Zinc 1 mg
Potassium 270 mg
Phosphorus 98 mg
Iron 5 mg
Niacin (Vit B3) 1.1 – 3.9 mg
Thiamin (Vit B1) 0.03 mg
Riboflavin (Vit B2) 0.07 mg
Folic Acid 40 ug
Ascorbic Acid 30 mg
Amazing Health Facts On Ackee Fruit
Fortifies Bone Health
Ackee fruits contain vital minerals such as calcium, potassium, Zinc, Iron that help in bone repair and prevent loss of vital minerals.These Calcium, prevent osteoporosis, a health condition that affects the bones in both strength and structure. Zinc and Iron present in Ackee fruit considered to helps for better absorption of calcium by the bones and build the bones as it makes them strong.
Enhances Vision
In addition to its fiber and protein content, Ackee is also rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A can enhance eye health and protect against conditions like macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of vision loss.
Prevents Muscle Cramps
Ackee fruits contain two minerals such as potassium and sodium that relax the muscles , correct the imbalance of electrolytes in the body and prevent muscle cramps. Ackee fruit juice maintain ph level,balancing the body’s electrolyte, which is essential in the functioning of the body cells and organs.
Eradicate Oral Problems
Ackee fruit loaded with high amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that prevents the body from deficiencies such as scurvy and boosts the immune system. Vitamin C content in Ackee fruit helps in preventing bleeding gums, bruises.
.
Boosts Immunity
Ackee fruit possess is a best immune booster since it contain rich antioxidant with vitamin C content that boost our immune system by promoting the development of white blood cells,prevent chronic diseases and cellular mutation. Ascorbic acid content present in Ackee fruit act as antioxidant to preventing chronic diseases.
Produces Energy
Vitamin B3, which is an essential nutrient in the body that aids in the effective conversion of food into glucose and, on the other hand, produces energy and macro molecules to the body. Ackee hold this essential nutrient vitamin B helps to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and improve the circulation of blood in the body.
Helps to Lose Weight
Ackee fruit hold good fiber compounds, helps in building body muscles, tissues, and cells. Ackee fiber content regulate digestion ,decrease cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower inflammation .There by Ackee fruit tends to feel fullness, decrease appetite and improve cholesterol levels
Regulates Blood Sugar Level
Ackee fruit is called as-Hyperglycemic which helps to regulate blood sugar and protect against diabetes.The extracted juice of Ackee lowers blood sugar levels of people who suffer from type 2 Diabetes mellitus. Therefore, this tangy juice of Ackee lower -glycemic index and raise glucose levels more slowly.
Maintains Heart Health
Ackee contains healthy fatty acids such as palmitic acids, linoleic and stearic acid.Ackee function helps to prevent the contraction of arteries, which could lead to high pressure on the blood, resulting in hypertension, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular conditions like heart attack and stroke. Ackee fruit is known to have zero cholesterol content and plays a vital role in cardiovascular protection by reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Good for Pregnant Women
Ackee fruit contain Folic acid that is essential for pregnant women.Because it helps to provide them with natural folic acid, which is needed for the effective growth and development of the fetus.
Promotes Blood Cells
Ackee fruits also contain vitamin C, which helps in absorption of the iron nutrients in the body. Ackee fruits helps in red blood cell production and folic acid is essential in various anemia treatments , improving the red blood cells in the body.
Treats Digestion
The moderate fiber content in the Ackee fruit helps control bowel movement and aid in proper digestion. Ackee also prevents any form of digestive problems such as bloating, cramps, and other health conditions that might lead to the inflammation of the colon.