Custard apples, with their luscious and creamy texture, are not only a delight for the taste buds but also pack a powerful punch when it comes to health benefits.
In India, it is said that when Mother Sita was in exile(Banvas), she used to survive by eating custard apples for 2 to 3 days.
Since then, the fruit came to be known as ‘Sitafhal’ in India, and people started recognizing it by that name.
The custard apple, known as “Sitaphal” in Hindi, has its origins in the southern regions of The India and, the Americas, particularly in the West Indies, Mexico, and Central America.
Over the centuries, it spread to various parts of the world where it thrives in warm and subtropical climates.
The scientific name of the custard apple is ‘Annona reticulata’.
It belongs to the Annonaceae family, which includes other fruits like cherimoya and sugar apple.
Custard apple is known by different names in various Indian languages.
Here are the names in English and some Indian languages:
- English: Custard Apple
- Hindi: सीताफल (Sitaphal)
- Tamil: சீதாப்பழம் (Seetha Pazham)
- Telugu: సీతాఫలం (Sitaphalam)
- Malayalam: ശീതാഫലം (Sheethapazham)
- Kannada: ಸೀತಾಫಲ (Seethaphala)
- Marathi: सीताफळ (Sitaphal)
- Gujarati: સીતાફળ (Sitaphala)
- Bengali: শরীফা (Sharifa)
- Odia: ଶରଫା (Sharafa)
- Punjabi: ਸ਼ਰੀਫਾ (Sharifa)
- Assamese: শৰিফা (Sharifa)
- Urdu: سیتافل (Sitaphal)
- Konkani: सिताफळ (Sita Phal)
- Manipuri: (Sharifa)
12 Amazing Custard Apple Benefits
1. Nutrient-packed Goodness
Custard apples are a treasure trove of essential nutrients.
From vitamins like A and C to a significant dietary fiber content, these fruits provide a wholesome package for overall well-being.
Their antioxidant properties further contribute to a robust immune system.
2. Heart Health Boost
Including custard apples in your diet can have a positive impact on heart health.
They aid in lowering cholesterol levels and maintaining blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Immune System Support
Boosting the immune system is vital for fending off illnesses, and custard apples play a crucial role in this.
Packed with immune-boosting nutrients, these fruits help the body fight against common infections.
4. Digestive Health Harmony
Custard apples are gentle on the digestive system, aiding in digestion and alleviating constipation.
The high fiber content promotes a healthy gut, contributing to overall digestive well-being.
5. Skin Radiance Unleashed
For those seeking radiant and youthful skin, custard apples can be a game-changer.
The fruit’s nutrients contribute to healthy skin and combat signs of aging, leaving you with a natural glow.
6. Energy Elevation
Feeling fatigued? Custard apples act as a natural energy booster, providing a quick and sustainable source of vitality.
Including them in your diet can help combat tiredness and keep you energized throughout the day.
7. Weight Management Marvel
If you’re conscious about your weight, custard apples make an excellent addition to your diet.
With their low-calorie content and metabolism-boosting properties, these fruits support weight management goals.
8. Cancer-fighting Properties
Research suggests that custard apples contain compounds with anticancer properties.
These compounds help protect cells from damage and may contribute to cancer prevention.
9. Managing Diabetes Naturally
Custard apples are considered diabetes-friendly due to their ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
Including them in a balanced diet can be a tasty and nutritious option for individuals managing diabetes.
10. Mood Enhancer
Beyond the physical benefits, custard apples can positively impact your mood.
They contribute to increased serotonin levels, helping alleviate stress and anxiety, and promoting overall mental well-being.
11. Bone Health Benefits
Maintaining strong and healthy bones is essential, especially as we age.
Custard apples contribute to bone health by providing essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, helping prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
12. Pregnancy Support
Expecting mothers can benefit from the nutritional richness of custard apples.
The fruit provides essential nutrients crucial for fetal development, making it a valuable addition to a pregnant woman’s diet.
Nutritional chart for custard apple per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 94 |
| Total Fat | 0.6g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 4mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 23.6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3g |
| Sugars | 20.8g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Vitamin C | 23.6mg |
| Calcium | 22mg |
| Iron | 0.6mg |
| Potassium | 247mg |
| Magnesium | 13mg |
| Phosphorus | 18mg |
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the specific variety of custard apples and growing conditions.
Selecting and Storing Custard Apples
To reap the maximum benefits, it’s crucial to choose ripe custard apples.
Look for fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
Store them in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Custard Apples stand out not only for their delicious taste but also for the myriad health benefits they offer.
From supporting heart health to enhancing skin radiance, these fruits deserve a place in your regular diet.
Embrace the goodness of custard apples and enjoy the wholesome advantages they bring to your overall well-being.
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FAQs
Can custard apples help in weight loss?
Yes, custard apples are low in calories and can aid in weight management when included in a balanced diet.
Are custard apples suitable for diabetes patients?
Custard apples can be a diabetes-friendly fruit, helping regulate blood sugar levels.
How do custard apples contribute to bone health?
Custard apples provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, supporting strong and healthy bones.
Can custard apples be consumed during pregnancy?
Yes, custard apples offer valuable nutrients for fetal development and are a healthy choice for expecting mothers.
What is the best way to store custard apples?
Store custard apples in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and maximize their shelf life.
What are the benefits of eating custard apples?
Custard apples offer essential vitamins, high dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
They support heart health, boost the immune system, aid digestion, promote healthy skin, and provide natural energy.
Is custard apple high in sugar?
Custard apples contain natural sugars, but they are not excessively high.
The fruit’s sweetness is balanced by its fiber content, making it a healthier option than processed sugars.
Who can eat custard apples?
Custard apples are suitable for all age groups, but individuals with specific allergies or medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before adding them to their diet.
Is custard apple good for the skin?
Yes, custard apples are beneficial for the skin due to their nutrient content and antioxidant properties.
Can I eat custard apples daily?
Yes, in moderation, custard apples can be a part of a balanced daily diet.
How many custard apples can we eat in a day?
Consuming 1-2 custard apples per day is generally considered healthy, but individual dietary needs may vary.
Is custard apple hot or cold?
Custard apple is considered a cooling fruit, often enjoyed for its refreshing effect in warmer climates.
Can we eat custard apples at night?
Yes, custard apples can be consumed at night as a healthy snack, but moderation is essential.
Is Sitafal hot or cold for the body?
Sitafal (custard apple) is considered cooling for the body, making it suitable for consumption in warmer weather.
Is sitaphal good for periods?
Custard apple may provide relief from menstrual cramps due to its high magnesium content, contributing to overall well-being during menstruation.
What are the side effects of custard apple seeds?
Custard apple seeds contain small amounts of toxins and should not be consumed due to potential adverse effects.
Does custard apple cause gas?
Custard apples are generally easy to digest and do not commonly cause gas.
However, individual reactions may vary.
Can we drink water after eating custard apple?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to drink water after eating custard apple, helping with hydration.
What is the waste of custard apple?
The seeds and peel are considered waste in custard apples; only the flesh is consumed.
What is the risk of custard apple?
While generally safe, individuals with allergies or specific health conditions should be cautious.
Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid consuming custard apple seeds.
What happens if we eat raw custard apple?
Eating custard apples raw provides the full nutritional benefits and the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Do we get cold by eating custard apples?
Getting a cold is more related to viral infections than the consumption of custard apples, which are considered cooling in nature.
Why is custard apple called sitaphal?
The name “Sitaphal” originates from the belief that Sita, wife of Lord Rama, consumed custard apples during her exile in the forest.
What do we call Sitafal in English?
In English, Sitafal is known as “Custard Apple.”
Can pregnant ladies eat custard apples?
Yes, pregnant women can eat custard apples in moderation as part of a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients.
Do custard apples increase sperm count?
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that custard apples directly increase sperm count, but their nutritional content may contribute to overall reproductive health.
Is custard apple rich in iron?
Custard apples contain some iron, but they are not considered a rich source.
Including a variety of iron-rich foods in the diet is advisable for those with iron deficiency concerns.
Can I give custard apple to my baby?
Mashed or pureed custard apples can be introduced to a baby’s diet after the age of six months, ensuring it is prepared in a baby-friendly manner.
Is Sitaphal safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, Sitaphal (custard apple) is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I give my 7-month-old custard?
It’s generally safe to introduce mashed or pureed custard apple to a baby’s diet after the age of six months, ensuring it is prepared appropriately.
Can breastfeeding mothers eat custard apples?
Yes, breastfeeding mothers can include custard apples in their diet as part of a healthy and varied eating plan.
What are the side effects of custard apple in pregnancy?
Custard apples are generally safe during pregnancy.
However, pregnant women should consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, considering individual health conditions.