Urucum: know its main health benefits

Do you know annatto? How about the coloring? According to nutritionist Juliana Vieira (CRN: 44442), this is the fruit of the annatto tree, a tropical American plant. The dye extracted from annatto seeds can be used in the production of cosmetics, tanning products, food and fabrics. Learn about the main benefits of this fruit for the body and how to include it in the diet.

5 benefits of annatto

Annatto has many bioactive compounds, which come from the secondary metabolism of plants. Because of this, there are many benefits achieved through the intake of this fruit in food, says nutritionist Gabriela Bernabé (CRN: 17101230). Thus, she checks the list of benefits guaranteed by nutritionists in relation to the use of annatto:

1. Antioxidant action: among the main compounds of annatto are phenolic compounds and carotenoids that are sometimes involved with functional properties, including antioxidant activity. Due to this activity, food is responsible for protecting cell oxidation, and can act in a preventive way against cancers, cardiovascular problems, aging, cholesterol and diabetes.
2. Slimming action: annatto has a slimming action, as it improves insulin receptors, promoting a decrease in blood glucose and stimulating the reduction of peripheral fat, favoring weight loss.
3. Astringent action: the astringent action provided by annatto also acts in the body as a liver protector. Therefore, a diet with the presence of this fruit is great for problems related to the liver.
4. Aphrodisiac action: in addition to the benefits mentioned above, annatto has an aphrodisiac action, making the use of its leaves act against bronchitis, pharyngitis and eye inflammation.
5. Strengthens bones: due to the presence of calcium in its composition, this food is very useful for strengthening bones through regular and continuous use.

Even if you didn’t imagine it, making regular use of annatto can bring great results to human health. Understand, below, how to use this fruit in food and condition the body its great benefits.

how to use annatto

Gabriela Bernabé says that the reddish pigment extracted from this fruit has been very well used in cooking and in the food industry in the form of a natural dye, representing 90% of dyes used in Brazil, and 70% in the world. In general, in the Brazilian industry, annatto is used to color butter, cheese, sausages, ice cream, soft drinks and bakery products.

Annatto coloring – Paprika

Paprika is produced by crushing the seeds and mixing them with corn (also crushed) or other types of seeds. With this mixture we can color several dishes, as long as they are salty. Annatto is not recommended for sweet dishes.

Seasoning in the preparation of rice and meats

It is possible to give another appearance to the rice with the use of annatto seasoning. To do this, just add the natural coloring to the garlic and continue preparing the food normally. In addition, it is also highly recommended for seasoning meats in general. As much as it does not give a specific taste to the food, it modifies its color and brings beneficial properties to the individual who consumes it.

Tea from seeds and leaves

The use of tea from this fruit is beneficial for healing stomach wounds, lowering cholesterol and treating colds and flu. It is possible to use the seeds for the production of hot and iced teas and their leaves.

The inclusion of antioxidants in the diet is of great importance for the prevention of several diseases, as already mentioned. Maintain a healthy diet and make good use of the properties of annatto for your body. Enjoy and discover exotic fruits good for health.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.