Jamaican Red Apples, referred to as coco-plum by some Jamaicans, possess a rather spongy texture and a mildly sweet and rose like taste. It is very juicy and watery as well.
Originally from Malaysia, it was brought to Jamaica in 1793 by Captain Bligh. Jamaican Red Apples are known around the world by other names, the most popular being: Otaheite apple, Malay apple, Mountain apple, Jambu bol, Rose apple, Pink satin-ash, Pommerac and Water apple.
Jammed packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this fruit is one of the key ingredients in the anti aging fruit juice drank by a 100 year old Jamaican!
The 20 Health Benefits of Jamaican Red Apples (Otaheite) are:
1) Anti aging
Jamaican red apples has carotene, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that are beneficial for relieving acne, reducing skin dryness and reducing wrinkles.
2) Weight loss
100 grams of the Jamaican apple is only 32 grams of calories. It speeds up the assimilation of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in food, by acting as a catalyst to enzymes in biochemical processes. This in turn promotes proper appetite and metabolism and helps maintain optimal body weight.
3) Immune System
The Vitamin A and Vitamin C found within Jamaican red apples are essential for the immune system, since it protects and maintains the health of cells, bones, blood vessels, and cartilage.
4) Cancer
Vitamin A and C are effective against the development of tumors and cancer cells.
5) Diabetes
Contains an organic compound known as jambosine that helps regulate the conversion of starch to sugar.
6) Heart Health
Has natural phytochemicals, and epicatechin, that dramatically lowers high blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of stroke and other heart diseases.
7) Vision
Has vitamin A, vitamin C, carotenoids, and riboflavin (vitamin B2) which promotes eye health and prevents cataracts.
8) Hair Growth
Contains a compound known as procyanidin B-2 which stimulates hair growth and thickening. Also, it prevents hair thinning and baldness.
9) Liver Damage
Possesses hepato-protective agents that help in effectively treating liver ailments.
10) Cold/Flu
Highly rich in various types of vitamins, minerals and other components, Jamaican red apples protect us from different types of fungal and bacterial infections, and also prevent fever.
11) Hydration
Has a high water content (90g) for every 100 gram.
12) Energy
Thiamine, a Vitamin B1 substance, aids in turning food into energy. Furthermore, with 14.2 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams of Jamaican apple, this fruit contains many carbohydrates that are more than enough energy for the body.
13) Digestion
Rich in fibre, Jamaican apples help normalize bowel movements.
14) Brain Health
Niacin contributes to a healthy functioning nervous system.
15) Bone Health
Rich in iron and calcium, Jamaican apples help your bones become stronger and thus, reduce osteoporosis.
16) Pregnancy
Relieve muscle contractions to reduce the feeling of abdominal cramps and overcome nausea. Additionally, it strengthens the embryo and maintains the electrolyzed balance.
17) Oral Health
Protects the oral cavity from infection.
18) UV Protection
Contains UVB defending components (phenolic antioxidant), that provides protection from direct sunlight, treats sunburn and prevents peeling.
19) Bladder Infections
A natural diuretic contains chemical compounds that help in flushing out toxins, stimulating the disposal of urine and helps in preventing kidney stones formation.
20) Cholesterol
Niacin enhances the good HDL cholesterol levels and reduces the amounts of harmful triglycerides and bad LDL cholesterol in blood.
For more information check out this article: Rose Apples: How They Can Benefit Your Health
