Mangosteen.

Noni.

Goji berry.

You have been seeing their names quite often lately-in revitalizing fruit drinks, energy bars, even cutting-edge cuisine-but just what is about these exotic newcomers that seems to be attracting everyone’s attention? Recently dubbed “superfruits,” they belong to a select family of fruits known for their high nutrient content and potent antioxidant effects. Packed with phytonutrients, these fruits of the future offer unique properties that benefit the whole body.



Phytonutrients are beneficial compounds that occur naturally in plant foods. In addition to giving fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors, clinical studies have shown that phytonutrients possess powerful antioxidant properties that may help the body fight disease and promote a healthy immune system. Research has shown that phytonutrients also help to neutralize free radicals, unstable compounds that can damage healthy cells in the body.

What follows is a brief description of five of the most well-known superfruits and the benefits they provide:

Açaí: Pronounced ah-sigh-EE, the açaí is tropical palm native to Central and South America. Its berries are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, fiber, protein and Vitamin E, and they have been used throughout history to help reduce inflammation, promote healthy cholesterol levels, boost immunity, prevent disease and increase energy.

Goji: The Goji berry has been used in Chinese medicine for nearly 2,000 years. First discovered in the Himalayan region around China, Tibet and India, they are packed with Vitamin C, fiber, nutrients, amino acids, antioxidants and beneficial polysaccharides (complex carbohydrates). Goji berries have been used traditionally to strengthen the immune system, lower stress levels and increase metabolism.

Mangosteen: A tropical evergreen tree, the antioxidant-rich mangosteen originated in the Malay Archipelago northwest of Australia. Dubbed the “Queen of Fruits” by its many admirers, the mangosteen has been used throughout history for a variety of medicinal purposes, including promoting digestive and urinary tract health, supporting healthy cholesterol levels, boosting immunity, and increasing energy.

Noni: A shrub-like small tree, the noni originated in the South Pacific Islands and is now found in India, French Polynesia, Tahiti and parts of the West Indies. Rich in antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids, the noni fruit has been used traditionally to help strengthen the immune system, prevent disease, enhance metabolism, and support the digestive and circulatory systems.

Pomegranate: A small shrub found throughout the Himalayan region, the pomegranate produces fruit that is packed with vitamin C, antioxidant-rich polyphenols, potassium and folic acid. Reference to the fruit can be found in the bible and in many ancient Asian texts, and the fruit is considered sacred in Greek and Egyptian culture. The pomegranate has been used traditionally to reduce inflammation, promote digestive and cardiovascular health and prevent disease.



Acai Berry health benefits