Fruit

Groundcherries

Health
ScoreB

Groundcherries are small, tart berries enclosed in a papery husk, rich in vitamin C and niacin with a unique bioactive compound profile. These nutrient-dense fruits offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits with minimal calories.

Track Groundcherries in Formulate — free

Log it, see it roll into your daily nutrient coverage, and build a scored stack.

Open app →

Why Groundcherries scores 64

Nutrient density18

Protein quality8

Fiber content5

Healthy fats5

Bioactive compounds11

Glycemic impact9

Top nutrients

% Daily Value per 1 medium (140 g)

Niacin 25%Vitamin C 17%Thiamin 13%Iron 7.8%Phosphorus 4.5%

Nutrition

per_100g

Calories

1.9g

Protein

11.2g

Carbs

0.7g

Fat

Fiber

Health benefits

Anti-inflammatory support through withanolides and polyphenols

emerging evidence

Withanolides modulate NF-κB signaling pathways, reducing systemic inflammation; polyphenols provide antioxidant defense against oxidative stress

Enhanced immune function via vitamin C and antioxidants

moderate evidence

Vitamin C (11mg/100g) supports T-cell proliferation and antibody production; antioxidants protect immune cells from oxidative damage

Metabolic health and blood sugar regulation

emerging evidence

Low glycemic load combined with polyphenolic compounds may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce postprandial glucose spikes

Cardiovascular support through niacin and antioxidant content

moderate evidence

Niacin (2.8mg/100g) supports HDL cholesterol and vascular function; polyphenols reduce LDL oxidation

Pairs well with

·Pair with dark chocolate (70%+) because both contain polyphenols that synergistically enhance antioxidant absorption and anti-inflammatory effects
·Combine with healthy fats (nuts, seeds, avocado) because fat-soluble antioxidants and carotenoid absorption improve with dietary lipids
·Eat with leafy greens because groundcherries' vitamin C enhances non-heme iron bioavailability from vegetables like spinach
·Add to yogurt with honey because probiotics support polyphenol metabolism and create a complete macronutrient profile

Practical tips

·Best timing: Groundcherries' low sugar content, minimal glycemic impact, and micronutrient density make them suitable across all times. Morning consumption leverages vitamin C for daytime immune support; afternoon provides sustained polyphenol antioxidant benefits. No circadian conflict with digestion or sleep.
·Store groundcherries in their papery husk at room temperature for 2-3 weeks to maximize shelf life and preserve volatile antioxidants
·Consume fresh and ripe (golden-yellow husk) rather than cooked to preserve heat-sensitive vitamin C and withanolides
·Select firm berries within intact husks; discard any with soft spots or mold on the husk to avoid toxin contamination
·Rinse gently under cool water and remove husk just before eating to prevent premature oxidation of polyphenols