Custard apples, often known as the “sweets of nature”, also called sugar apple or Cherimoya, are not only delicious but also packed with various nutrients.
This tropical fruit, with its creamy texture and sweet flavor, offers much more than just satisfying your taste buds.
From its seeds to its skin, every part of the custard apple is a treasure trove of health benefits.
So, are you ready to unlock the secrets of this miraculous fruit and see how it can benefit your health?
Here are 11 incredible health benefits of custard apples that will surprise you and perhaps encourage you to add this wonderful fruit to your diet.
1. Rich in Nutrients:
Custard apples are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, B-vitamins such as thiamine and riboflavin, potassium, magnesium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions, such as maintaining healthy skin, boosting the immune system, and promoting proper muscle and nerve function.
2. Boosts Immune System:
The vitamin C content in custard apple plays an essential role in strengthening the immune system. It helps the body fight against free radicals and infections, and also assists in the absorption of iron, which is crucial for a healthy immune system.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Custard apple contains several antioxidants, including vitamin C and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
4. Helps in Digestion:
Being rich in dietary fiber, custard apple helps in digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass through the digestive system, thereby promoting regular bowel movements.
5. Heart Health:
The magnesium in custard apple helps to relax the muscles and maintain a regular heartbeat. The balanced ratio of sodium and potassium helps in regulating blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
6. Anemia Prevention:
Custard apple is a source of iron, which is essential for the production of hemoglobin. Regular consumption of custard apple can help in preventing and treating anemia.
7. Weight Gain:
For those looking to gain weight, custard apple can be a good option as it is dense in calories and natural sugars. It can be included as part of a healthy diet for individuals trying to put on weight.
8. Good for Pregnant Women:
Custard apple is often recommended for pregnant women because it is rich in calories, vitamins, and minerals. It can also help alleviate morning sickness and nausea, and the high fiber content can help combat constipation, which is common during pregnancy.
9. Maintains Healthy Skin:
The high vitamin A content in custard apples is great for skin health. It helps in maintaining healthy and vibrant skin, combating aging and promoting the growth of new skin cells.
10. Protects Against Cancer:
Custard apple contains natural compounds like acetogenin and alkaloids, which have anti-cancer properties. These compounds are known to have a role in fighting cancer cells and reducing the adverse effects of chemotherapy.
11. Supports Bone Health:
The presence of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in custard apple contributes to the maintenance of bone health and can help in preventing osteoporosis.
As with any food, it’s important to consume custard apples in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s also worth noting that some individuals may be allergic to custard apple or may need to avoid it due to specific health conditions.
Consulting a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet is always advisable.
