The juice of the noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit, also known as hog apple, has long been used in the Pacific region as a healthy tonic, reports the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Before taking noni juice as a health supplement, you should ask your doctor whether the product is right for you. Side effects can include liver damage and other serious maladies.
Low Calories and Low Fat
Noni juice has zero fat and it has only 15 calories per 100-gram serving, according to the University of Hawaii, making it a refreshing and guilt-free drink for those on a diet.
Antioxidants
Noni juice has high levels of antioxidants like vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin B complexes, according to Dr. Scot Nelson, author of "Noni: The Complete Guide for Consumers And Growers." Antioxidants help neutralize damaging particles known as free radicals, which are released by environmental toxins and ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Cardiovascular Health
Noni juice may help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, according to Colorado State University. This may help to protect the cardiovascular system and increase circulation while reducing the health risks related to cholesterol buildup known as atherosclerosis.
Cancer
According to research published in the August 2001 issue of the American Association for Cancer Research's "Cancer Research" journal, noni juice's glycosides may help inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in tumors. Glycosides are small sugar-bound organic molecules in the juice. More research is needed before making definitive claims, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
References
- # "Noni: The Complete Guide for Consumers And Growers" Scot C. Nelson and Craig R. Elevitch; 2006
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Noni
- Colorado State University: Noni Juice
- University of Hawaii: Noni Juice
- "Cancer Research"; Two Novel Glycosides From....Morinda Citrifolia Inhibit...Transactivation and cell Transformation; Liu, G., et al.; August 2001
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