Are Soursops Good for You?
Yes, soursop is an incredibly nutritious fruit. It has a unique flavor often described as a mix of strawberry, apple, and citrus. The fruit’s white, creamy pulp is packed with essential nutrients that can support your overall health. Soursop is naturally low in calories but rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent source of antioxidants, which help protect your body’s cells from damage.
This article, with information updated as of August 2025, will provide a deep dive into the world of soursop. We will cover eight clinically proven health benefits of soursop, including soursop nutrition facts, risks and side effects, and substitutes for soursop. You will also learn about popular soursop diets, soursop storage tips, 9 original soursop home remedies, soursops and weight management, and the use of soursops for health conditions.
8 Clinically Proven Health Benefits of Soursops
Soursop, also known as graviola or guanabana, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. Modern science is now beginning to validate some of its long-held health claims. The benefits listed here are backed by scientific studies, giving you a fact-checked look at what this tropical fruit has to offer. While much of the research involves concentrated extracts in lab or animal studies, the findings are promising.
1. Packed with Potent Antioxidants
Your body is constantly dealing with free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and lead to chronic disease. Soursop is loaded with antioxidants that neutralize these harmful compounds. Lab studies show soursop contains several powerful plant compounds with antioxidant abilities, including luteolin, quercetin, and tangeretin (Ajmera, 2023). An antioxidant-rich diet is linked to a lower risk of several diseases, including heart disease and cancer (Supan, 2021).
2. Boosts Your Immune System
Soursop is a fantastic source of vitamin C, a key micronutrient for a strong immune system. Vitamin C helps your body produce more white blood cells, which defend against infections and pathogens. Just one cup (225 grams) of raw soursop pulp provides 46.4 milligrams of vitamin C (Adcox, 2024). A single large fruit can offer over 143% of the recommended daily vitamin C intake for men and 172% for women, making it a powerful immune-booster (Gleim, 2025).
3. Promotes Healthy Digestion
Fiber is crucial for a healthy digestive system, and soursop is full of it. A single cup of soursop contains 7.4 grams of dietary fiber, which is approximately 26.5% of the daily recommended value (Kubala, 2025). This fiber helps add bulk to stool, promoting regularity and preventing constipation. The fruit’s juice can also act as a diuretic, helping to cleanse the gastrointestinal tract by flushing out excess sodium (Purdie, 2024).
4. May Help Stabilize Blood Sugar
While more human research is needed, animal studies suggest soursop can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels. In one study, diabetic rats that received soursop extract for two weeks had blood sugar levels that were five times lower than the untreated group (Ajmera, 2023). Another study found that soursop extract reduced blood sugar in diabetic rats by up to 75%. These findings suggest soursop could be beneficial for individuals with diabetes when combined with a healthy lifestyle, but it should not replace prescribed treatments.
5. Reduces Harmful Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases. The antioxidants in soursop give it powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Animal studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing inflammation. One study showed that soursop extract decreased swelling in mice by up to 37% (Ajmera, 2023). This effect could be particularly beneficial for people with inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
6. Fights Harmful Bacteria
Soursop contains compounds that exhibit potent antibacterial effects. In laboratory tests, concentrated soursop extracts have been shown to kill multiple types of bacteria. This includes strains known to cause gum disease, tooth decay, and yeast infections. Other test-tube studies found that soursop extract was effective against the bacteria responsible for cholera and Staphylococcus infections (Ajmera, 2023).
7. Could Help Lower Blood Pressure
Soursop is rich in potassium, a mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. A one-cup serving delivers an impressive 626 milligrams of potassium (Adcox, 2024). Potassium helps your body get rid of excess sodium and eases tension in the walls of your blood vessels. Promisingly, one of the few human studies found that adults with borderline high blood pressure who drank 7 ounces of soursop juice daily for three months experienced significantly lower blood pressure levels compared to a control group (Kubala, 2025).
8. Shows Potential in Cancer Research
This is one of soursop’s most talked-about benefits, but it requires careful interpretation. Lab studies have shown that soursop extract can kill certain types of cancer cells. These effects are attributed to compounds called acetogenins. One test-tube study on breast cancer cells found soursop extract could reduce tumor size and enhance the activity of the immune system (Ajmera, 2023). However, these studies use highly concentrated doses that cannot be achieved by simply eating the fruit. Health experts warn against using soursop as a standalone cancer treatment, and it should never replace conventional medical care (Purdie, 2024).
Soursop Nutrition Facts

The impressive health benefits of soursops can be better understood by looking at their detailed nutritional profile, as analyzed below.
Soursop nutrition table
The following table breaks down the nutritional values for a standard one-cup (225g) serving of raw soursop pulp and per 100 grams, based on a 2,000-calorie daily diet.
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup/225g) | DRI % (Serving) | Per 100 grams | DRI % (100 g) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Calories | 148 | 7.4% | 66 | 3.3% |
Protein | 2.3 g | 4.5% | 1 g | 2% |
Carbs | 37.8 g | 13.8% | 16.8 g | 6.1% |
Total Fat | 0.7 g | 0.9% | 0.3 g | 0.4% |
Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | 0 mg | 0% |
How many calories are in soursops?
A one-cup (225g) serving of raw soursop contains approximately 148 calories, which is about 7.4% of the daily recommended intake (DRI) for an average adult. A smaller 100-gram portion has just 66 calories.
These calories come primarily from carbohydrates. To burn off the 148 calories from a cup of soursop, a 155-pound person would need to walk at a moderate pace for about 30 minutes or go for a run for about 12-15 minutes.
How much protein is in soursops?
Soursop contains a modest amount of protein. A one-cup serving provides 2.3 grams of protein, meeting about 4.5% of the daily value. Like most fruits, it is not considered a significant source of protein, so it should be paired with other protein-rich foods to meet your daily needs.
How many carbs are in soursops?
Soursop is relatively high in carbohydrates, which are its main source of energy. One cup of the raw fruit has 37.8 grams of carbs. This accounts for nearly 14% of the daily recommended intake. Importantly, this serving also includes 7.4 grams of dietary fiber, which is over 26% of your daily need, aiding in digestion and helping to moderate the fruit’s impact on blood sugar.
How much fat is in soursops?
Soursop is a very low-fat food. A one-cup serving contains less than one gram of fat, specifically 0.7 grams, which is less than 1% of the daily recommended intake. The small amount of fat present is primarily a mix of healthier unsaturated fats.
Fat Type | Per 100 g |
---|---|
Total Fat | 0.3 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.06 g |
Monounsaturated Fat | 0.05 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g |
Are soursops high in cholesterol?
Soursops are completely free of cholesterol. As a plant-based food, they contain zero milligrams of cholesterol per serving, making them a heart-healthy choice.
Minerals in soursops
The fruit is a good source of several essential minerals that contribute to its health benefits, particularly potassium and copper.
Mineral | Amount (per 1 cup/225g) | DRI % | Health Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
Potassium | 626 mg | 13% | Helps regulate blood pressure, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. |
Copper | 0.193 mg | 21% | Essential for iron metabolism, energy production, and forming red blood cells. |
Magnesium | 47.2 mg | 11% | Supports muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure. |
Iron | 1.35 mg | 8% | Crucial for creating hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. |
Soursop delivers a significant amount of your daily potassium and copper needs in a single serving. It also provides a notable quantity of magnesium and iron, which support energy levels and overall physiological function.
Vitamins in soursops
Soursop truly shines in its vitamin content, especially Vitamin C. This nutrient is a powerhouse antioxidant that supports many bodily functions.
Vitamin | Amount (per 1 cup/225g) | DRI % | Health Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
Vitamin C | 46.4 mg | 52% | Boosts the immune system, protects cells from damage, and helps produce collagen. |
Niacin (B3) | 2.02 mg | 13% | Helps convert food into energy and supports nervous system function. |
Folate (B9) | 31.5 mcg | 8% | Vital for cell growth and the formation of DNA. |
The most impressive nutrient is Vitamin C, with a single serving providing over half of your daily requirement. The fruit also offers a good amount of B vitamins like niacin and folate, which are important for metabolic health.
Soursops Risks and Side Effects
While soursop offers many benefits, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks. The fruit and leaves contain compounds called annonaceous acetogenins. In large quantities or with long-term consumption, these compounds can be toxic. Studies have linked high consumption of soursop to an increased risk of developing atypical parkinsonism, a neurological condition with symptoms like tremors and muscle stiffness. For those with existing Parkinson’s disease, soursop may worsen symptoms.
Furthermore, repeated or high-dose use of soursop supplements may cause liver and kidney toxicity. It’s also known to interact with certain medications. Because soursop can lower blood pressure and blood sugar, taking it alongside medications for hypertension or diabetes can cause levels to drop dangerously low. Always consult a healthcare provider before using soursop supplements, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication.
Finally, while the fruit’s pulp is safe and delicious, the seeds are toxic and should never be consumed. They contain a neurotoxin called annonacin that can be harmful. Always be sure to remove all seeds before eating the fruit or using it in recipes.
Debunking myths about soursops
Myth: Soursop is a secret cure for cancer.
Fact: This is one of the most widespread but misleading claims about soursop. While some laboratory and animal studies have shown that highly concentrated soursop extracts can kill certain cancer cells, there is no reliable scientific evidence from human trials to support its use as a cancer treatment. Reputable organizations like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Cancer Research UK warn against using graviola to treat cancer, emphasizing the lack of human data on its safety and effectiveness.
Myth: Soursop tea and supplements are harmless because they’re natural.
Fact: “Natural” does not always mean safe. Soursop supplements and teas are not regulated by the FDA, meaning their purity, strength, and safety are not guaranteed. The same neurotoxic compounds (acetogenins) found in the plant can become concentrated in these products. Long-term use may lead to nerve damage and symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, and repeated consumption could be toxic to the liver and kidneys.
Soursops Substitutes

If you can’t find soursop or are concerned about its potential risks, several other fruits offer similar flavor profiles or nutritional benefits. Cherimoya, a close relative, is the most direct substitute, while various berries can provide a tart, fruity alternative.
Nutrient | Soursop (100g) | Cherimoya (100g) | Elderberry (100g) | Aronia Berry (100g) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vitamin C | 12.6 mg | 12.6 mg | 36 mg | 21 mg |
Fiber | 3.3 g | 3 g | 7 g | 5.3 g |
Potassium | 278 mg | 287 mg | 280 mg | 162 mg |
You can also use cherimoya, which belongs to the same plant family as soursop. It has a similar creamy texture and a sweet flavor reminiscent of banana, pineapple, and strawberry. A benefit of using cherimoya is its nearly identical taste and texture, making it perfect for smoothies and desserts. However, it has not been studied as extensively as soursop for its potential medicinal properties, and like soursop, its seeds are toxic and must be removed.
Aronia berries, also known as chokeberries, are a great alternative if you’re seeking high antioxidant content. They have a tart, complex flavor that works well in juices, jams, and baked goods. Their main benefit over soursop is their exceptionally high concentration of antioxidants. The drawback is their intense tartness, which many people find needs to be balanced with a sweetener, and their texture is very different from soursop’s creamy pulp.
For a boost in vitamin C and fiber, elderberries are an excellent choice. They have an earthy, tart flavor and are often used to make syrups, jellies, and teas. Their immune-boosting properties are well-documented, offering a clear benefit. The primary drawback is that raw elderberries are toxic and must be cooked thoroughly before consumption. Their flavor profile is also distinctly different and less tropical than that of soursop.
Popular Soursop Diets
How to add soursops safely into your diet? Choosing the right diet is important to ensure that you are meeting your nutritional needs while also enjoying the foods you eat. Here are a few of the available soursops-friendly diet options:
- Whole Foods Diet
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- Tropical Fruit Diet
Diet Feature | Whole Foods Diet | Anti-Inflammatory Diet | Tropical Fruit Diet |
---|---|---|---|
Primary Goal | Consume unprocessed, natural foods. | Reduce chronic inflammation in the body. | Emphasize consumption of fruits native to tropical regions. |
Soursop’s Role | Excellent fit as an unprocessed fruit. | Highly suitable due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. | A core component of the diet. |
Benefits | Improved overall health, weight management, high nutrient intake. | Reduced risk of chronic diseases, relief from inflammatory conditions. | High in vitamins, antioxidants, and hydration. |
Drawbacks | Can be more time-consuming for meal prep and more expensive. | May require eliminating certain food groups; can be restrictive. | Can be high in sugar (from fruit); may lack protein and fats if not balanced. |
The Whole Foods Diet focuses on eating foods in their most natural state, avoiding processed items, refined sugars, and artificial ingredients. Soursop fits perfectly into this lifestyle. Its pulp can be eaten raw or blended into smoothies without additives. This approach maximizes your intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber directly from the source. The main challenge is the time and effort required for preparation, as convenience foods are off the table.
An Anti-Inflammatory Diet is designed to combat chronic inflammation, a known contributor to many diseases like arthritis and heart disease. Soursop is an ideal food for this diet due to its rich content of flavonoids and Vitamin C, which have proven anti-inflammatory effects. Incorporating soursop can help manage symptoms of inflammatory conditions. A potential drawback is the need to eliminate pro-inflammatory foods like processed meats and refined carbohydrates, which can feel restrictive for some.
A Tropical Fruit Diet is less a formal diet and more a dietary pattern emphasizing fruits grown in tropical climates. Soursop, alongside mango, papaya, and pineapple, would be a star player. This diet is excellent for hydration and provides a wealth of antioxidants. One cup of soursop pulp contains about 82g of water, making it great for staying hydrated (Zanin, 2025). However, it’s crucial to balance this fruit-heavy intake with sources of protein and healthy fats to avoid nutritional deficiencies and manage the high natural sugar content.
How to Cook Soursops?
Eating raw soursop is the most common and nutritionally beneficial way to enjoy the fruit. Simply slice it in half, scoop out the creamy white pulp with a spoon, and be sure to spit out the toxic seeds. This method ensures you receive the maximum amount of heat-sensitive nutrients, like Vitamin C, which can degrade with cooking. There is no nutrient loss, and you get the full, vibrant flavor profile of the fruit.
Soursop juice and smoothies are incredibly popular and easy to make. Blend the raw, de-seeded pulp with water, milk, or other tropical fruits. This is a fantastic way to consume the fruit if you find the stringy texture of the raw pulp challenging. While blending breaks down some of the fiber, it makes the nutrients highly accessible. Using frozen soursop pulp is a convenient alternative that already has the seeds removed and offers a practical way to enjoy the fruit year-round.
Making soursop tea utilizes the leaves of the plant, not the fruit itself. The leaves are steeped in boiling water for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method is used in traditional medicine to access different compounds than those found in the fruit pulp, such as anonaine, which may have soothing properties (Zanin, 2025). The main drawback is that you don’t get the fiber or the fruity flavor of the pulp. It’s also important to note that consuming large quantities of soursop leaf tea has been linked to potential toxicity.
Easy Soursop Recipes

Incorporating soursop into your meals can be simple and delicious, helping you increase your intake without compromising on taste.
Breakfast ideas with soursops
A tropical yogurt parfait is a great way to start the day. Layer fresh soursop pulp with Greek yogurt, granola, and other fruits like mango or pineapple for a nutrient-dense and refreshing breakfast. The creamy texture of the soursop blends perfectly with the yogurt.
Soursop oatmeal or chia pudding can elevate a standard breakfast. Simply stir a few spoonfuls of fresh or thawed frozen soursop pulp into your warm oatmeal or overnight chia pudding. It adds natural sweetness and a tangy flavor, eliminating the need for added sugar.
Lunch ideas with soursops
Create a vibrant fruit salsa to accompany grilled fish or chicken. Finely chop soursop pulp and mix it with red onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and a squeeze of lime juice. This sweet and spicy salsa offers a unique tropical twist to a light lunch.
A refreshing soursop salad is perfect for a warm day. Combine chunks of soursop with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette. The fruit’s tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the avocado, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Dinner ideas with soursops
For a simple dessert, try soursop mousse or sorbet. Blend the fruit’s pulp with a little condensed milk or coconut cream to make a quick mousse. For a dairy-free option, freeze the pureed pulp in an ice cream maker to create a simple, tangy sorbet.
A soursop-based marinade can tenderize and flavor chicken or pork. Puree the pulp with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. The natural acidity of the fruit helps to break down the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish after grilling or baking.
Simple tips to add soursops to your diet
For busy people who don’t have time to implement any of the previous meal ideas, there are simple tips to add soursops to their diet.
- Stir a spoonful of frozen soursop pulp into a glass of sparkling water for a refreshing spritzer.
- Freeze soursop puree in ice cube trays and add a few cubes to your water bottle.
- Blend frozen soursop pulp with milk or water to create a traditional Brazilian drink known as a Champola.
- Mix pureed soursop into cocktails, where it pairs especially well with vodka and mint.
- Use soursop pulp as a topping for pancakes or waffles instead of syrup.
- Simply eat the chilled fruit with a spoon for a quick and easy snack.
Soursop Storage Tips
Knowing how to prepare soursop is only part of the equation. It is just as important to know the best soursops storage tips to make those nutritious meals last longer and reduce waste.
Shelf life of soursops
- At room temperature: An unripe, firm soursop will ripen in about 3-5 days. A ripe soursop will only last 1-2 days.
- In the refrigerator: A ripe, whole soursop will keep for up to 2-3 days. Cut soursop should be consumed within a day.
- In the freezer: Properly prepared soursop pulp can last for 3-6 months, preserving its flavor and many of its nutrients.
How to store soursops?
Proper storage begins with proper selection. When buying, look for a fruit with dark green skin and plenty of fleshy spines. Avoid fruits with significant blemishes or bruises. A firm soursop is unripe and can be ripened at home, while one that gives slightly to gentle pressure is ripe and ready to eat.
Unripe soursop should be kept at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, to allow it to ripen naturally. To speed up the process, you can place it in a paper bag with a banana or an apple. Once ripe, the fruit’s shelf life shortens considerably, and it should be moved to the refrigerator immediately if you don’t plan to eat it that day.
How to refrigerate soursops?
Refrigerating a ripe soursop correctly can slow down spoilage and keep it fresh for a couple of days.
- Place the whole, ripe soursop in a perforated plastic bag. This allows for air circulation while preventing the fruit from drying out.
- Store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
- Do not wash the fruit until just before you are ready to eat it, as excess moisture can promote mold.
- Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
How to freeze soursops?
Freezing is the best method for long-term storage, allowing you to enjoy soursop for months.
- Wash the ripe fruit and pat it dry. Slice it in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the white, creamy pulp.
- Carefully remove and discard all of the black seeds, as they are toxic.
- Place the seedless pulp into airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.
- If using bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container with the date and place it in the freezer.
Signs of Spoilage in soursops
It is important to recognize when a soursop is past its prime to avoid consuming spoiled fruit.
- An overly soft, mushy, or watery texture.
- Large dark spots, significant bruising, or discoloration on the skin.
- A sour, fermented, or alcoholic smell.
- Any visible signs of mold.
9 Original Soursop Home Remedies
Are there any less-known tips to unlock the nutritious profile of soursops? The following soursops remedies can have a positive effect on overall well-being.
- Stress-Relief Tea. Steep 10 grams of dried soursop leaves in one liter of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. The leaves contain compounds like anonaine that act on the central nervous system to promote relaxation. Strain and drink a warm cup to help ease stress and anxiety. Store the dried leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
- Digestive Soother Puree. For mild indigestion or gastritis, consume a few spoonfuls of fresh, raw soursop pulp. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help protect the stomach lining. Prepare the puree by simply blending the seedless pulp until smooth and store it in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
- Constipation Relief Smoothie. Blend one cup of soursop pulp with half a pear and a splash of water. The combination of water and high fiber from both fruits helps add bulk to stool and promotes natural bowel movements. Drink immediately for the best effect.
- Topical Inflammation Compress. To soothe arthritic joints or skin irritations, mash fresh soursop pulp into a paste and apply it as a compress directly to the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce localized swelling. This should be prepared fresh for each use.
- Immunity-Boosting Shot. For a quick immune system kick, juice or blend half a cup of soursop pulp with a one-inch piece of ginger and the juice of half a lemon. This shot is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants that help strengthen your body’s defenses. Consume immediately after preparation.
- Blood Pressure Tonic. Simply blend one cup of soursop pulp with a cup of water to create a simple juice. Soursop is rich in potassium, which helps the body eliminate sodium and promotes better blood circulation. A small glass daily may help in blood pressure management alongside medical treatment.
- Natural Hydration Elixir. Soursop pulp is composed of about 82% water, making it an excellent natural hydrator. Muddle a few pieces of soursop pulp in a large bottle of water and sip throughout the day. It adds a subtle tropical flavor and replenishes fluids effectively.
- Rejuvenating Skin Mask. Mix two tablespoons of soursop puree with one teaspoon of raw honey. Apply the mixture to your clean face and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing. The fruit’s antioxidants can help protect skin from environmental damage.
- Fever-Reducing Infusion. In traditional medicine, soursop leaves are used to help manage fevers. Prepare a tea as described in the stress-relief remedy and drink it warm. This remedy is based on traditional use and should not replace medical advice for high or persistent fevers.
Soursops and Weight Management

There are multiple health benefits, and home remedies using soursops, but what is their role in weight management? This section will analyze soursops potential impact on weight loss, low-calorie diets, satiety, and metabolism.
Can soursops help with weight loss?
While there are no large-scale human clinical trials that directly prove soursop causes weight loss, its nutritional properties suggest it can be a valuable part of a weight management plan. Research published in the Journal of Food Quality indicates that bioactive compounds in soursop may affect the activity of fatty acid synthase, an enzyme involved in producing fat in the body (Afzaal et al., 2022). By potentially influencing fat metabolism, soursop could support weight management efforts, though more research is needed.
Soursops in low-calorie diets
Soursop is an excellent food for volume eating in low-calorie diets. With only around 66 calories per 100-gram serving, it provides sweetness, flavor, and a creamy texture to meals without a significant caloric impact. You can add it to smoothies, yogurt, or have it as a dessert to satisfy sweet cravings without derailing a calorie-controlled eating plan.
Soursops and satiety
The key to soursop’s role in promoting satiety is its high fiber content. A 100-gram portion of the fruit provides approximately 1.9 to 3.3 grams of dietary fiber. Fiber slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, helping you feel fuller for longer. This prolonged feeling of fullness, or satiety, can lead to a natural reduction in overall calorie intake, which is fundamental for weight management.
Soursops and metabolism
Soursop contains several B vitamins, including Thiamine (B1) and Niacin (B3), which are essential for energy metabolism. These vitamins act as cofactors for enzymes that help convert the food you eat into usable energy. A well-functioning metabolism is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Furthermore, its potential to influence fat-producing enzymes suggests a deeper role in metabolic regulation that warrants further scientific investigation.
Soursops for Health Conditions
While weight management is important, do soursops have an effect in more serious health conditions? Here’s what the scientific literature has to say:
Soursops and diabetes
Soursop shows significant promise in helping to manage blood sugar levels, although current research is primarily based on animal studies. The fruit’s high fiber content helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Furthermore, antioxidants in soursop may protect the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas (Zanin, 2025). In one study, diabetic rats given soursop extract for two weeks had blood sugar levels that were five times lower than the untreated group. Another study showed a reduction of up to 75% in blood sugar levels in diabetic rats (Healthline, 2025). These findings suggest soursop could be a beneficial dietary addition for those managing diabetes, but it should not replace prescribed medical treatments.
Soursops and heart health
Soursop can play a role in supporting cardiovascular health, particularly in regulating blood pressure. The fruit is an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that helps the body excrete sodium and eases tension in blood vessel walls. In one of the few human studies on soursop, 143 people with borderline high blood pressure who drank 7 ounces of soursop juice daily for three months experienced significantly lower blood pressure levels compared to a control group (Kubala, 2025). Its antioxidant compounds also promote overall arterial health.
Soursops and digestive issues
The fruit’s composition makes it beneficial for various digestive concerns. For constipation, soursop is effective due to its high content of both fiber and water. A single cup provides over 26% of your daily fiber needs and is composed of about 82% water, which helps add bulk to stool and facilitates regular bowel movements (Zanin, 2025; Kubala, 2025). Additionally, soursop’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help protect the stomach lining. Animal studies have shown that soursop leaf extract can help reduce gastric ulcers by suppressing stomach acid production, similar to how some ulcer medications work (Gleim, 2025).
Soursops and inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous diseases, and soursop contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds that may help. Research shows that soursop can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that signal inflammation in the body, making it potentially useful for conditions like arthritis (Zanin, 2025). Animal studies support these claims, with one finding that soursop extract reduced swelling in mice by as much as 37% (Healthline, 2025).
Soursops and cancer prevention
The potential link between soursop and cancer is one of the most discussed topics, but it requires careful context. Soursop is rich in compounds called acetogenins, which have demonstrated cytotoxic (cell-killing) effects on cancer cells in laboratory settings. Test-tube studies have shown that soursop extract can reduce tumor size and kill breast cancer cells, as well as stop the growth of leukemia cells (Healthline, 2025). However, it is critical to understand that this research involves highly concentrated extracts and has not been replicated in human clinical trials. Therefore, soursop is not a proven treatment for cancer and should never be used as a replacement for conventional medical care.
The existing scientific evidence, while promising for several health conditions, is largely based on laboratory and animal studies. More robust human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits and establish safe, effective dosages.
Health Category | Benefits | Type of Study | Quality of Evidence | Sources |
---|---|---|---|---|
Diabetes | Lowers blood sugar, protects pancreatic cells. | Animal & In-vitro | Preliminary | Ajmera (2023), Zanin (2025) |
Heart Health | Lowers blood pressure. | Limited Human & Animal | Moderate | Kubala (2025), Zanin (2025) |
Digestion | Relieves constipation, may protect against ulcers. | Human Observation & Animal | Moderate | Zanin (2025), Gleim (2025) |
Inflammation | Reduces swelling and inflammatory markers. | Animal | Preliminary | Ajmera (2023), Zanin (2025) |
Cancer | Kills cancer cells in lab settings. | In-vitro | Very Preliminary | Ajmera (2023), Gleim (2025) |
Soursop Nutrition: Key Insights
This article has explored the full spectrum of soursop, from the 8 clinically proven health benefits of soursops and detailed soursop nutrition facts, to the soursops risks and side effects you should know. We’ve also covered soursops substitutes, popular soursop diets, soursop storage tips, 9 original soursop home remedies, the role of soursops and weight management, and how soursops may impact various health conditions.
Here are some key insights to take away:
- A single one-cup serving of soursop provides over 50% of your daily Vitamin C needs, making it a powerful immune booster.
- The seeds of the soursop fruit are toxic and should always be removed and discarded before consumption.
- While soursop has many benefits, long-term use of its supplements has been linked to nerve damage and Parkinson’s-like symptoms. Moderation is key.
- In a human study, drinking soursop juice daily was shown to significantly lower blood pressure in people with borderline hypertension.
- The global market for soursop is growing rapidly and is projected to reach a valuation of $350 million by 2027.
- Eating soursop raw is the best way to preserve its delicate nutrients, especially the heat-sensitive Vitamin C.
This content was last updated in August 2025 to ensure you have the most current information.
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Soursop Nutrition FAQs

This unique tropical fruit often raises questions about everything from its health benefits to its shelf life. Here are the quick answers to some of the most common queries about soursop.
What are soursops good for?
Soursops are excellent for boosting immune health, aiding digestion, and helping to regulate blood pressure. The fruit is packed with antioxidants and provides over 50% of your daily Vitamin C needs in a single one-cup serving, which helps strengthen the immune system. Its high fiber content, at 7.4 grams per cup, promotes digestive regularity, while its 626 milligrams of potassium help manage blood pressure.
Are soursops healthy?
Yes, soursops are incredibly healthy and nutrient-dense. A 100-gram portion contains just 66 calories but is loaded with beneficial compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids. This tropical fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, providing over 26% of your daily fiber requirement per cup. Its rich nutritional profile supports everything from cellular health to digestive function.
Are soursops fattening?
Soursops are not fattening and can be a great addition to a weight-conscious diet. The fruit is very low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per one-cup serving, and is relatively low in calories. Its high fiber content helps promote a feeling of fullness, or satiety, which can prevent overeating.
Who should avoid soursops?
People with Parkinson’s disease, low blood pressure, or diabetes should avoid soursop or consult a doctor before consumption. The fruit contains compounds called acetogenins which may worsen neurological symptoms and can dangerously lower blood sugar and blood pressure, especially when taken with medication. It is also not recommended for individuals with kidney or liver disease, or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, due to a lack of safety studies.
Can I eat soursops daily?
It is best to eat soursop in moderation rather than daily. Long-term, high-level consumption has been linked in some studies to neurological issues due to the presence of annonacin. A single large soursop can also contain up to 80 grams of natural sugar, so daily intake may not be ideal for those monitoring their sugar consumption. Enjoying it a few times a week as part of a varied diet is a safer approach.
Can dogs eat soursops?
No, dogs should not eat any part of the soursop fruit or plant. The seeds are particularly dangerous as they contain a neurotoxin called annonacin, which is poisonous to dogs. The fleshy pulp can also cause digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. To ensure your pet’s safety, it is best to keep this fruit entirely away from them.
Can cats eat soursops?
No, cats should not eat soursop as the fruit and plant are toxic to them. All parts of the soursop plant, especially the seeds, contain compounds like annonacin which can cause serious health problems for felines. Ingesting soursop can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially more severe neurological issues, so it is crucial to keep this fruit away from your cat.
How long do soursops last in the fridge?
A ripe soursop will last for about 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. Storing it in the crisper drawer at a temperature around 40°F (4°C) can help slow down the spoilage process. If you have cut the soursop, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and consume it within 24 to 48 hours for the best quality and flavor.
Can you freeze soursops?
Yes, freezing is an excellent way to preserve soursop for long-term use. After peeling the fruit and removing the toxic seeds, the pulp can be placed in an airtight container or freezer bag. Properly stored soursop pulp can last for 3 to 6 months in the freezer. The texture will change upon thawing, making it ideal for smoothies, juices, and sorbets.
How to tell if soursops are bad?
You can tell a soursop has gone bad by checking for a few key signs of spoilage. The fruit will become overly soft, mushy, or watery, and its skin may develop large dark patches or visible mold. A clear indicator is the smell; a bad soursop will have a sour, fermented, or alcoholic odor instead of its usual sweet, tropical aroma.
How long are soursops good for?
The shelf life of a soursop depends entirely on its ripeness and how it’s stored. An unripe soursop can sit at room temperature for 3 to 5 days to ripen, but once it’s ripe, it will only last for 1 to 2 days on the counter. Refrigerating a ripe soursop extends its life to about 3 days, while freezing the pulp preserves it for up to 6 months.
How to keep soursops fresh?
To keep soursop fresh, you should ripen it at room temperature and then transfer it to the refrigerator once it becomes soft to the touch. Placing the ripe fruit in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge can maintain its freshness for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freezing the de-seeded pulp in an airtight container is the most effective method, keeping it fresh for months.