Think you’ve nailed the title of “World’s Healthiest Fruit”? Think again! While apples and oranges have their loyal fan clubs, there’s another fruit that’s topping the global nutrition charts. Unless you’re an expert on subtropical treasures, there’s a good chance this one has slipped under your radar. Prepare to meet the cherimoya—a fruit so healthy, it nearly grabs the world title, and packs a punch of creamy, exotic delight.
Meet the Cherimoya: An Exotic Superstar
- Name: Cherimoya (also called “custard apple”)
- Origin: Subtropical regions of South America
- Appearance: Green, with a conical shape and thick skin
Don’t let the bumpy green exterior fool you! Hidden inside is an unbelievably creamy, sweet flesh. Its taste? Imagine a blend of banana, mango, and pineapple—yes, the dessert trio of your dreams, born in nature. Cherimoya fits easily into your balanced diet: just scoop it with a spoon, toss some in a fruit salad, or blitz it into smoothies and desserts. If your taste buds are getting bored, this fruit adds a velvety, exotic note that’ll keep your palate on its toes.
Top of the (Nutrition) Pops
So, how did cherimoya jump ahead in the global rankings? According to Surrey Live, the BBC compiled a list of the world’s most nutritious foods. Cherimoya wasn’t just a contender—it scored 96 out of 100, earning it the title of highest-rated fruit on the list. That means it’s officially more nutritious than all its fruity rivals, taking a proud second place overall, just behind the “world’s healthiest snack,” which nabbed a 97. Sorry, classic apple. Maybe next year.
But what’s behind this impressive score? Cherimoya is packed with:
- Antioxidants (including flavonoids, carotenoids, and acetogenins)
- Fiber
- Essential vitamins and minerals
This nutritional density translates into a variety of health benefits, including powerhouse antioxidant action and remarkable support for your body’s defenses.
The Benefits: Beyond Ordinary Fruit
What makes cherimoya a cut above the usual suspects in the fruit bowl isn’t just the creamy spoonability—it’s what it does for your health:
- Supports immunity: Thanks to heaps of nutrients and antioxidants.
- Reduces inflammation: Those antioxidants don’t just sit pretty—they battle free radicals, which can otherwise drive inflammation and contribute to chronic illnesses.
- Eye and heart health: Its vitamin and antioxidant profile also means good things for your eyes and ticker.
- Potential anticancer properties: Cherimoya’s unique compounds, including acetogenins, are known for their anticancer benefits.
- Digestive and metabolic boosts: Packed with fiber, it keeps your gut happy and supports a healthy balance of intestinal microbes.
- Mood-boosting vitamin B6: The perfect cherry (or cherimoya) on top, vitamin B6 correlates with improved mood.
- May lower risks: Thanks to all the above, cherimoya contributes to reduced risk of hypertension, diabetes, and even heart disease.
It’s a lot for a humble fruit from South America! Of course, with great power comes great responsibility…
Handle with Care: A Vital Safety Reminder
Before you rush to the nearest exotic produce aisle, a word of warning: cherimoya’s seeds are not edible. They contain potentially toxic compounds that, if consumed in large quantities, can harm the nervous system. If you plan to add cherimoya to your daily rotation (and why wouldn’t you?), carefully remove the seeds before eating—no exceptions! This precaution means you’re only left with the creamy, dreamy goodness, and none of the nasty surprises.
Conclusion: In the contest for the world’s healthiest fruit, cherimoya serves up a nutritious, delicious blow to the classics we thought we knew so well. Creamy texture, a cocktail of flavors, and a nutritional pedigree to rival all comers—what more could you want? If you’re up for adding a dash of the exotic to your routine, let cherimoya give your fruit bowl a serious upgrade. Just don’t eat the seeds! Your taste buds and your body will thank you alike—perhaps with a little mood boost to wrap it all up, courtesy of that golden vitamin B6.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
