Acerola is considered both a cherry and a berry. It is a tart flavored fruit that grows in the Caribbean, Mexico and parts of California. Acerola are bright red and sometimes yellowish and orange.
Some side effects including nausea, stomach cramps, sleepiness, and insomnia. Eating too much Acerola can result in increased levels of vitamin C and an increase in the risk of kidney stones or worsen gout.
Acerola is a good source of vitamin C and also contains vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. It is believed to be effective in the treatment of scurvy, prevention of heart disease, blood clots, and cancer, however more research is required.
The benefits of Acerola are primarily related to its nutritional value.
Alfalfa is a legume with few calories, no fat and very little sodium. Alfalfa is best eaten raw and is used on sandwiches and in salads.
Apples are a good source of soluble fiber and are believed to play a role in maintaining blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Apples have little fat cholesterol or sodium.
Apricots are a good source of carotene, the plant form of vitamin A and also contains a fair amount of potassium and iron. Carotene is believed to be beneficial in cancer prevention. Apricots are low in sodium and have little to no fat or cholesterol.
Apricots are best served fresh as part of a fruit salad or as a desert.
Artichokes have a small amount of calcium, iron, phosphorus, niacin, and vitamin C. They are good sources of magnesium and potassium. Artichokes have a more sodium than most fruits and vegetables, approximately 80 milligrams per medium cooked artichoke.
Asparagus contains a healthy amount of carotene (provitamin A) vitamin C and the mineral selenium. It contains no fat, cholesterol or sodium and has a fair amount of cholesterol lowering fiber.
Bananas are a good source of potassium and contain soluble fiber which may help lower cholesterol. They also contain modest amounts of vitamin C
Barley is a good source of protein and fiber, it is low in fat and sodium.
Beans have their benefits in lowering cholesterol and aiding in digestive health. They are a good source of fiber with much protein and little fat. Types of beans include Kidney, Pinto, Lima, Butter, Black, Fava, White, and Soy beans.
Beef, especially Lean Beef, helps in iron absorption. It also contains vitamin B12 which helps prevent nerve damage. Beef also provides zinc.
