ABSTRACT
Evidence from epidemiological studies has strongly suggested that diets rich in fruits and vegetables play a vital role in disease prevention. The aim of this study was to determine nutrient and antioxidant content for 15 varieties of indigenous vegetables and fruits collected from Southern Thailand. The data indicated that indigenous vegetables provided small to moderate amounts of macronutrients and minerals. The highest content of ß-carotene was found in Indian lettuce (Lactuca indica; 3575.54 µg/100 g), whereas water dropwort (Oenanthe javanica; 7439.11 µg/100 g) had the highest lutein content. Ripe cashew apple (Anacardium occidentale; 178.34 mg/100 g) and Spanish joint fir (Gnetum gnemon; 109.43 mg/100 g) were excellent sources of vitamin C. Mon-pu (Glochidion perakense) and young cashew leaves (Anacardium occidentale) were rich sources of ß-carotene, lutein, total polyphenol, especially gallic acid, and had relatively high ORAC and FRAP activities. In conclusion, Thai indigenous vegetables provide diverse natural bioactive compounds that may contribute health benefits to the consumer.
