About Super fruit
Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in May 2026. Last updated: 18 September 2026.
Super fruit is an umbrella term for fruits and plants with a notably high content of vitamins, phytonutrients or polyphenols. Acerola and camu camu are among the richest natural sources of vitamin C in the world; cacao is rich in flavanols and magnesium; maca and moringa are traditionally used as nutrient-rich crops. Wholefood supplementation provides vitamin C in its natural matrix with bioflavonoids – which many people tolerate better than synthetic ascorbic acid in high doses.
On this page: Our super fruit categories · Why wholefood vitamin C? · Frequently asked questions · Combine with · Sources
Our super fruit categories
- Acerola — wholefood vitamin C – 1500-4500 mg per 100 g fresh fruit
- Camu Camu — one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C – 2000-3000 mg per 100 g
- Cacao — raw organic cacao – rich in flavanols, magnesium and theobromine
- Maca — Andean root, gelatinised powder – traditionally used as an adaptogen
- Moringa — leaf powder from the "tree of life" – rich in micronutrients
- Vitamin C — all vitamin C supplements (synthetic + wholefood)
Why wholefood vitamin C?
In studies, synthetic ascorbic acid and wholefood vitamin C from acerola or camu camu show comparable absorption curves. The difference lies in the matrix: wholefood also provides bioflavonoids, tannins and other co-factors. For high doses (>1 g), buffered forms or liposomal C are more practical because they are easier on the digestive system.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between acerola and camu camu?
Both are extremely high in vitamin C. Camu camu (Amazon region) usually has a slightly higher raw vitamin C content; acerola has a more balanced profile and is common in European supplements.
How much super fruit powder should I take?
For acerola powders: 1-5 g per day provides 50-300 mg vitamin C. For a targeted high dose (1+ g vitamin C), synthetic versions are more practical.
Is wholefood vitamin C more effective than synthetic?
Hardly, as far as absorption itself goes. Wholefood does provide extra co-factors and is often better tolerated. For high doses, synthetic with bioflavonoids is a fine alternative.
Do super fruits contain oxalates?
Some vegetable powders (especially spinach and beetroot) contain a lot of oxalates; acerola and camu camu only a little. For people with a history of kidney stones: use in moderation and consult a doctor.
Combine with other categories
Super fruit fits broadly into an approach centred on vitamin C and polyphenols:
- Superfoods & Mushrooms — the main category
- Vitamins & Supplements — for specific vitamin C doses
- Beautiful Skin from Within — vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin
- Immunity & Resistance — vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system
The vitamin C claims apply once a product provides at least 12 mg vitamin C per serving (15% of the reference intake).
Sources & references
- Regulation (EU) 432/2012 – authorised health claims for vitamin C
- Netherlands Nutrition Centre (Voedingscentrum) – vitamin C: sources and recommended amounts
- Carr A.C. & Vissers M.C.M. (2013) — Synthetic or food-derived vitamin C — are they equally bioavailable? Nutrients 5(11)
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.
