Cà na (also known as white jam) is a familiar fruit for the people of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. This fruit has a sweet-sour taste with a slight astringency and can be prepared in various delicious dishes such as braised meat, fish, or pickled. For this reason, cà na is considered a simple gift from nature to humanity.
Not only is it tasty, but this fruit also has many health benefits that many may not be aware of:
1. Diabetes Prevention
Cà na is regarded as a beneficial food in preventing diabetes and its complications due to its rich content of antioxidants and anti-glycation compounds. Additionally, this fruit contains geraniol, a type of monoterpenoid that helps lower blood sugar levels. This compound can inhibit the activity of an enzyme called α-glucosidase, which plays a role in breaking down starch into glucose in the intestines. As a result, geraniol helps reduce the amount of glucose absorbed into the bloodstream, allowing the body to release insulin at the right time and in the appropriate amount, thus preventing diabetes.
Cà na contains a rich amount of omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Cholesterol Balance
In addition to its blood sugar-lowering effects, cà na is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help effectively balance cholesterol levels. Moreover, consuming this fruit helps eliminate excess omega-6 fatty acids from the body, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
3. Weight Loss Support
Cà na is high in fiber and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, making it very useful for those looking to lose weight. The high fiber content in cà na promotes a feeling of fullness, curbing appetite and enhancing metabolic processes. This allows cà na to aid the body in burning fat quickly and eliminating excess body fat.
Furthermore, fiber also supports the digestive system by stimulating bowel movements, preventing constipation and hemorrhoids, thereby improving nutrient absorption in the body.
Thanks to its ability to balance healthy cholesterol and its high fiber content, cà na is very effective for weight loss. The fiber from cà na creates a feeling of fullness, reduces cravings for snacks, especially late-night eating; while also enhancing metabolism, helping the body burn fat quickly and efficiently.
4. Cancer Prevention
Cà na has tumor-suppressing effects and effectively prevents cancer. Moreover, the antioxidant compounds found in this fruit can prevent damage to cells and inhibit the growth of cancer-causing cells. Therefore, consider adding this fruit to your daily diet to help your family combat the onset of cancer.
Cà na prevents tumor growth and effectively combats cancer.
5. Bone Health
The presence of zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus in cà na strengthens bone health, especially in older adults.
6. Good for Skin and Hair
Vitamin E found in cà na helps improve your skin and hair quality effectively. This valuable vitamin also removes cholesterol residues and activates antioxidants. Eating cà na is a simple yet highly effective way to enhance the beauty of your skin and hair.
