Many of us have tried all sorts of lotions and potions that claims to reverse the signs of ageing, plump fine lines and correct pigmentation. However, what many of us forget is that what we eat can have a large impact on your health and the condition of our skin.
Acerola berry, or Barbados cherry as it is sometimes known, is a super berry with a high level of antioxidants. Native to areas such as South America, Central America and Southern Mexico, it contains key vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, B vitamins, iron and calcium. It is these ingredients that make it a super-food for fighting ageing, free radicals, and promoting youthful, glowing skin.
“These vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients work together to boost skin nourishing circulation,” says Rick Hay, an anti-ageing and fitness nutritionist with clinical
experience in nutrition, naturopathy, botanical medicine and iridology. “They also help to prevent dry, inflamed and irritated skin and can even help improve the appearance of ageing skin by improving skin firmness and plumpness.”
“Acerola berry contains some of the highest levels of vitamin C found in nature with research showing that it contains more vitamin C than oranges, kiwi and pineapple. This high level of vitamin C helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production,” says Rick. “Higher intakes of vitamin C are also associated a reduction in skin surface dryness so with increased consumption you may see an improvement in hydration and a decrease in flaky, dry or itchy skin.”
What does acerola berry taste like?
Acerolas have a distinct sour taste as a result of the fruit’s high vitamin C content, however, the fruit becomes less acidic when perfectly ripe, and taste sweeter.
Where can I buy acerola berry?
Keen to grow your own supply of the anti-ageing cherry? Australians can buy an ‘acerola cherry’ plant (as it is also known) from Daley’s Fruit in NSW, either online or in-store.
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Want some anti-ageing tips for summer? Watch the video below.