With its almond shape and cranberry color, synsepalum dulcificum - better known as the "miracle fruit" - can turn every sour taste sweet within the first 15 to 30 minutes of its ingestion.
Native to West Africa, the "miracle fruit" contains miraculin, a natural protein which has sugar molecules that stick to the tongue, triggering the tongue's sweet receptive taste buds. After eating the "miracle fruit", lemons and limes and can taste like sweet ... and Tabasco sauce can taste like tingling honey.
Because of its amazing effects on foods, the fruit is currently being used in several different medical studies.
In one case, the "miracle fruit" is being used in a study for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. During chemotherapy, several patients not only lose weight, but they also lose their taste senses, resulting in further weight loss and sometimes even malnutrition. Dr. Mike Cusnir, a lead researcher on the project and oncologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center, is hoping that by giving his patients the fruit, they will be able to regain some amount of taste and want to eat more. According to CNN, the feedback from his patients have been mixed.
The "miracle fruit", which has been growing in South Florida since about 1974, has created a buzz among exotic fruit eaters and fruit-lovers alike. People have even participated in parties where they pay $10 to $35 to taste the fruit.
Low on calories and high on taste, doctors have currently been considering the fruit as a helpful resource for diabetics and those suffering from obesity.
No comments:
Post a Comment