
Jujube
Score
Jujube is a small, nutrient-dense stone fruit rich in vitamin C, potassium, and polyphenols, offering immune support and cardiovascular benefits with minimal calories.
Why Jujube scores 78
Nutrition
per_100g
Health benefits
Enhanced immune function and reduced infection risk
strong evidenceHigh vitamin C content (69mg/100g) supports neutrophil function, collagen synthesis, and antibody production, strengthening mucosal and systemic immunity
Improved cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation
moderate evidencePotassium (250mg/100g) promotes vasodilation and counteracts sodium's hypertensive effects; polyphenols reduce arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction
Antioxidant defense and reduced cellular aging
moderate evidencePolyphenolic compounds including flavonoids neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress implicated in aging and age-related diseases
Sleep quality improvement and stress reduction
emerging evidenceTraditional use supported by emerging research on cyclopeptide alkaloids and saponins potentially modulating GABA receptors and nervous system tone
Blood sugar stability and metabolic health
moderate evidenceLow glycemic impact despite carbohydrate content due to fiber and polyphenol-mediated slowed glucose absorption, supporting insulin sensitivity
Pairs well with
- ·Pair with almonds or walnuts because fat slows gastric emptying, moderating glucose response and enhancing absorption of fat-soluble polyphenol compounds
- ·Combine with green tea because catechins synergize with jujube polyphenols, amplifying antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- ·Eat with leafy greens (spinach, kale) because vitamin C in jujube enhances non-heme iron bioavailability from plant sources, supporting oxygen transport
- ·Mix into plain yogurt with cinnamon because probiotics support polyphenol metabolism, and cinnamon enhances glucose regulation synergistically
Practical tips
- ·Best timing: midday
- ·Select firm jujubes with unblemished skin; store in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze whole for extended preservation of vitamin C and polyphenols
- ·Consume fresh jujubes rather than dried varieties when possible—fresh retain ~90% of vitamin C versus 30-40% in dried versions due to heat exposure
- ·Eat 3-5 medium jujubes (approximately 100g) daily as an optimal serving to gain health benefits without excessive natural sugar intake (20g carbs per 100g)
- ·Time consumption 30-60 minutes before meals to leverage polyphenol-mediated glucose regulation benefits, or pair with protein/fat to blunt glycemic response
- ·Source from Asian markets or specialty grocers for superior freshness and variety; Chinese 'li' cultivars typically offer superior size and sweetness





