What is the Miracle Fruit? Benefits, Where to Buy, and Cost.

Miracle fruit, or Synsepalum dulcificum, is a small berry that packs a powerful punch. Native to West Africa, this fruit has an incredible ability to alter taste perception, making sour and bitter foods taste sweet. But that’s not all – the miracle fruit also aids in weight loss and has potential benefits for cancer and diabetes patients.

Read on as we uncover the secrets of this fascinating fruit. We’ll explore its history, its unique properties, and its potential health benefits. We’ll also discuss where you can buy miracle fruit and how much it costs. Let’s get started!

1 What is Miracle Fruit?

Miracle Fruit

Miracle fruit is a small, red berry that grows on a shrub-like tree, which can reach up to 6 meters in height. The fruit is about 2cm long and has a pinkish-red flesh with a single brown, elliptical seed surrounded by a thin, translucent white membrane. When ripe, the miracle fruit has a bright red, shiny skin. However, due to its thin skin, it is delicate and challenging to store, even at low temperatures.

Origin of Miracle Fruit

Miracle Fruit is Native to Africa

The miracle fruit was first discovered by French explorer Des Marchais in 1725 during his travels in West Africa. He observed that the locals had a peculiar custom of eating a red fruit, after which all their food tasted sweet, despite their minimal use of sugar.

Why Does Miracle Fruit Make Things Taste Sweet?

Miracle Fruit is Actually Quite Bland on its Own

Contrary to what its name suggests, the miracle fruit is not particularly sweet on its own. In fact, it is quite bland and almost tasteless. However, the miracle lies in a protein called miraculin, found in the fruit. When consumed, miraculin binds to the taste buds on the tongue and reacts with acids, transforming sour and bitter flavors into sweet ones.

The effects of miracle fruit typically last for about an hour, starting about 30 minutes after consumption. However, the sweetness may fade sooner if consumed with hot beverages like tea or coffee.

2 Health Benefits of Miracle Fruit

According to research published in the AMMG journal, miracle fruit not only transforms sour and bitter flavors but also offers several potential health benefits:

Weight Loss and Dieting Aid

Miracle Fruit can Help with Weight Loss

Miracle fruit is a dieter’s dream come true. Each berry contains just 1 gram of calories and is free from sugar. Additionally, the perceived sweetness it provides can reduce sugar cravings and aid in weight loss.

Cancer Treatment Support

Miracle Fruit can Help Cancer Patients Regain their Sense of Taste

Cancer treatments like radiation therapy can often lead to a loss of taste, making food unappetizing. Miracle fruit can help cancer patients regain their sense of taste by transforming bitter and sour flavors into sweet ones, making mealtimes more enjoyable and aiding in their recovery.

Benefits for Diabetics

Miracle Fruit is Good for Diabetics

Diabetics are often advised to reduce their sugar intake. Miracle fruit can help them maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. By transforming sour and bitter flavors into sweet, it allows diabetics to enjoy their meals without compromising their health.

3 Miracle Fruit Price and Where to Buy

Miracle Fruit Costs Around 45,000 – 50,000 VND for 5 Fruits

Now that you know about the amazing benefits of miracle fruit, you’re probably wondering where to buy it and how much it costs. Miracle fruit is currently sold at a price range of 45,000 – 50,000 VND for a pack of 5 fruits.

It is not commonly found in supermarkets, markets, or grocery stores. To purchase miracle fruit, you can visit garden shops or buy them online through e-commerce platforms.

A Word of Caution: While miracle fruit makes sour foods taste sweet, it’s important not to overindulge in acidic foods. Excessive consumption of acidic foods can damage the mucous membranes in the mouth and stomach, leading to issues like mouth ulcers, throat inflammation, and even stomach and liver cancer.

We hope this article has piqued your interest in miracle fruit. If you get the chance, give this fascinating fruit a try and experience its unique properties for yourself!