Reprinted from Caribbean Net News
caribbeannetnews.com
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada: It is customary to be greeted during this holiday period with a refreshing, ice-cold glass of sorrel, accompanied by a slice of fruit cake. Given the volumes by which we consume this drink in the Caribbean, it is interesting to note that research now shows that this refreshing beverage has health benefits.
According to recent research, it is believed that flavonoids present in sorrel may be a useful deterrent against certain types of cancers and help to enhance the body's immune system in general.
Hibiscus Sabdariffa L., or sorrel as we know it in the Caribbean, originated from Angola and can be prepared in a number of ways. The red tart petals are made into jams, chutneys, wine and the favourite Christmas and New Year's sorrel drink.
Sorrel tea is consumed in many countries such as the Sudan, Senegal and Egypt on a daily basis, and research in Mexico has reported a significant reduction in the triglyceride levels of persons who consume sorrel. Elevated levels of triglycerides are associated with heart disease and diabetes.
Recent advances in medicine and a greater understanding of human nutrition have led researchers to recognise the existence of a number of naturally occurring plant substances, known as nutraceuticals, (food or part of a food that provides health benefits) which can enhance human health. There is now an acceptance of the link between diet and health, and this link has evolved into the concept of nutraceuticals and functional foods.
Nutraceuticals have been associated with the prevention and or treatment of at least four life-threatening diseases - cancer, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
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