Summers in many parts of the country can be tough. The high temperatures can make you uncomfortable unless you have some tricks to stay cool. Staying hydrated is commonly advised, but having a healthy diet is also crucial. Include juicy fruits like Ice Apple (also known as toddy palm, palmyra palm, or nungu) to beat the heat. These fruits are available from April to June in India and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Ice apples, also called Tadgola, resemble lychee and taste like tender coconut water. Despite being less known in many parts of India, ice apples have various health benefits and are popular in the southern regions. They are rich in nutrients like carbohydrates, phytonutrients, calcium, fibre, protein, and vitamins C, A, E, and K. Additionally, they contain minerals like iron, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus.
Scientifically known as Borassus flabellifer, the fleshy ice apples, with their translucent, juicy liquid, have exceptional cooling properties. They offer a perfect mix of vitamins and minerals needed during the summer and are found in tropical countries like India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia and Cambodia.
You can enjoy ice apples in various ways – you can eat them raw or have them in the form of squash juice, sharbat, kheer, peda, and more. Chopped tadgola (Ice Apple) pieces also make a delightful pair with vanilla or tender coconut ice cream for a tasty dessert. Beyond being a fantastic coolant, ice apples are a must during the summer due to their health benefits.
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Here are some notable Ice Apple benefits that you shouldn’t ignore:
To maintain our body’s immune system and prevent illnesses, your body relies on essential vitamins and minerals, which is the primary Ice Apple benefit. Ice apples could be an excellent source as they are particularly rich in these vital elements, and they ultimately contribute to a robust immune system. It also has a high water content of around 95 per cent and can naturally prevent dehydration, proving particularly beneficial during the scorching heat of Southeast Asian summers.
Every 100 grams of Ice Apple reportedly has about 15 grams of fibre, and including fibre in your diet is very important. It helps with regular bowel movements, keeps your blood sugar in check, and helps control cholesterol levels. To add variety and avoid always eating the same fibre sources, think about adding seasonal fruits like Ice Apple to your diet. Eating ice apples regularly is believed to help with stomach issues like constipation, nausea, and bloating, thanks to the effective plant-based stuff in this fruit that deals with digestion problems.
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When it comes to Ice Apple benefits, we can’t forget that this fruit is a natural energy superhero, as it is loaded with natural sugars and lots of nutrients. It gives you a quick and natural boost of energy. It’s the perfect snack for anyone needing a little pick-me-up during the day.
Ice apples have anti-aging benefits, all thanks to the phytochemicals they contain. These plant compounds work wonders! The antioxidants in Ice Apple have anti-inflammatory properties, leading to a gradual but noticeable anti-ageing effect. It is also one of the special Ice Apple benefits.
While less known, ice apples are good for the skin due to their antioxidant richness. They also have Vitamin C, being the Ice Apple’s main benefit. This nutrient supports the skin in producing collagen, a protein crucial for maintaining the shape and structure of the skin. Vitamin C also combats damage caused by free radicals, contributing to healthier and more resilient skin.
Simply rubbing the Ice Apple jelly on your skin can naturally hydrate and benefit your skin. Ice apples could even assist in resolving skin inflammation issues like boils, prickly heat, and rashes, as they have cooling properties. Adding this fruit to your diet gives your skin a healthier appearance and a lustrous shine to your hair. Consider using ice apples in a face pack; applying a thin layer of jelly on the affected area could be helpful in soothing sensitive skin. It may also relieve the itchiness linked with prickly heat.
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Low in calories and rich in fibre and vitamins, Ice Apple benefits those struggling with slow weight loss. The water in the fruit helps you feel full and prevents overeating. The fruit’s water content keeps you feeling full, reduces cravings, and assists in weight management.
In summer, skin rashes are common. Rubbing the skin of an Ice Apple can clear irritations and soothe infected areas. The entire fruit, from skin to core, provides benefits.
Ice apples are a great choice for people with diabetes because they are low in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates can cause a significant spike in blood sugar levels, and individuals with diabetes need to limit their intake of these nutrients.
These remarkable fruits also contain a good amount of potassium. Maintaining adequate potassium levels is crucial because low potassium has been linked to high blood sugar levels. When potassium levels are low, insulin secretion decreases. Ice apples help balance this by providing a healthy dose of potassium, promoting increased insulin production and, in turn, lowering blood sugar levels.
Additionally, ice apples are packed with essential vitamins such as A, C, E, K, and B7. Ensuring an adequate intake of these vitamins is vital for maintaining a healthy life, especially for those dealing with chronic conditions like diabetes. Including ice apples in your diet can contribute to a balanced and nutritious approach to managing diabetes, being the special Ice Apple benefit.
However, if you have Diabetes it’s best to consult your dietitian before enjoying Ice Apple, and if they give the green light you can have it in moderation or as directed.
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Ice apples are high in potassium, benefiting liver health and treating irregularities. The fruit also aids in removing toxins from the body, acting as a natural cleanser for the liver, which is the primary Ice Apple benefit.
Ice Apples are not only juicy, delicious, and sweet, rather they can be used in a variety of dishes. The pulp of ice apples is perfect for creating refreshing drinks, much like coconut water. The yummy juice found in the softcore area inside ice apples can be enjoyed just like your Nariyal Pani. Ice apples find their way into a variety of preparations, including juice, sattu, candy, and more.
An ice apple is great for boosting the immune system. This wonderful fruit contains essential nutrients that your body needs, including a mix of vitamins like A, C, and B-complex, along with important minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium. Moreover, there’s a good dose of dietary fibre in there too. These nutrients are crucial in supporting your overall health and ensuring that your body functions at its best. They contribute to various bodily functions, helping you stay in tip-top shape.
Therefore, this low-calorie fruit can help prevent various diseases, making significant changes in your life by including it in your diet, and this Ice Apple benefit makes it the best of the fruits.
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During pregnancy, stomach pains and cramps are common. Including ice apples in your diet can help minor digestive issues and reduce feelings of nausea, which are common during pregnancy. Moreover, it is highly nutritious and can enhance the quality of breast milk in nursing mothers.
Ice apples serve as a valuable source of folate also, which is a crucial nutrient for the development of the fetal brain and spinal cord during pregnancy. Ensuring sufficient folate intake is vital as it lowers the risk of birth defects and promotes healthy growth in the unborn baby.
Moreover, ice apples are rich in vitamin K, which plays a key role in blood clotting and maintaining bone health. Adequate vitamin K intake during pregnancy can help minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during delivery, contributing to a healthier pregnancy journey.
Ice apples bring a refreshing taste with their tender pulp and sweet juice. More than just their delightful flavour, Ice Apple Benefits are numerous and come with high nutritional value. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, ice apples enhance overall health and well-being. Ice Apple’s versatility in culinary use highlights its importance in regional cuisine.
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Disclaimer: The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. BeatoApp does not claim responsibility for this information .
Dr. Navneet Agarwal is an established and highly skilled Diabetology with over 25 years of experience in Diabetology & Obesity. He is well-regarded for his quality and patient-centered diabetes care. Also, keep track of your blood sugar levels with a Doctors’ approved smart glucometer and elevate your healthcare routine.