Benefits of Sitafal: Sitaphal or Sitafal, also known as the custard apple, is a creamy seasonal fruit often seen during the winter season. You may have enjoyed it as a key ingredient in different Indian desserts, such as milkshake, pudding, and ice cream. Sitafal is packed with both deliciousness and nutrients that boost immunity, improve skin texture and support your overall well-being. Despite its sweet taste, this fruit can also be beneficial in managing sugar.
Scientifically named Annona squamosa, sitaphal fruit is believed to have originated from South America. It is widely grown in tropical areas, especially in the southern and central parts of India, where it is also called Sharifa or Krishnaguru. Sitafal is often linked with Ramayana, and the name “Sitaphal” literally translates to “Sita’s fruit”. Whatever you call it or however you eat it, this magical fruit is packed with nutrients necessary to support various organ functions. In this blog we will explore some surprising sitafal benefits.
Sitafal Benefits (Custard Apple) You Must Know
Here are some essential health benefits that your body can get from eating sitaphal/custard apple on a regular basis:
- Boosts Energy: Feeling low on energy? Sitafal offers a natural fix. Its high carbohydrate content makes it a great pick-me-up. The natural sugars offer steady energy without crashing like processed snacks often do.
- Helps Control Blood Sugar: Don’t be fooled by its sweetness. Sitaphal has a low glycaemic index. This means it releases sugar slowly, keeping blood sugar levels stable. The fibre in it also slows down glucose absorption. It’s a smart choice for those watching their sugar levels.
- Sitafal fruit benefits your skin: Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory traits, sitaphal helps fight skin infections. Applying the pulp can soothe irritation, reduce redness, and heal acne or boils naturally.
- Good for Heart Function: Magnesium and potassium in sitafal play a key role in heart health. Potassium balances sodium levels, helping control blood pressure. Magnesium supports heart rhythm and keeps the heartbeat steady.
- Essential for Eye Health: This fruit is loaded with a generous amount of vitamin A and vitamin C. These vitamins support vision and help prevent issues like macular degeneration.
- Improves Digestion: Sitaphal has an abundance of fibre. It keeps your bowel movement smooth and prevents issues like constipation. Regular consumption can also promote gut-friendly bacteria that improves your nutrient absorption capacity.
- Boost Immunity: A high amount of vitamin C makes sitafal an ideal fruit for keeping your immune system strong. It keeps your body away from infections like cold and flu, by boosting white blood cell production.
- Bone Strength: Calcium and magnesium are the two key nutrients necessary for stronger and healthy bones. Eating sitafal regularly can prevent bone-related issues.
- Reduces Oxidative Stress: The antioxidants in sitafal, like vitamin C and flavonoids, help in neutralising free radicals. That lowers the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer.
- Boost Wound Healing: Nutrients present in sitafal juice, like vitamin C, boost collagen production, which can heal wounds faster.
Side Effects of Sitafal
Anything which is consumed excessively can cause side effects, also in the case of sitaphal. It has an abundance of health benefits if consumed in moderation. Since this fruit has a high calorie content, it can promote weight loss if consumed wisely. Eating sitafal mindlessly can put you at risk of unnecessary weight gain. Moreover, the seeds and skin of sitafal contain some amount of toxins that can cause skin allergies and eye irritation. That’s why it’s recommended to remove the seeds and skin of sitafal before consuming it.
Last but not Least
Due to its nutritional value and health benefits, Sitaphal is also called nature’s own multivitamins. Whether you eat it raw or use it in a recipe, the nutritional benefits remain the same. From boosting immunity to keeping your heart, skin and brain healthy, this magical fruit has it all. Just like any other nutritional food item, it’s best if enjoyed in the right quantity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is sitaphal safe during pregnancy?
Ans. Yes, eating sitaphal during pregnancy is safe. Sitaphal, or custard apple, is a good source of vitamins C, potassium, magnesium and calcium necessary during the pregnancy.
Q. Is sitafal good for diabetes?
Ans. Sitaphal has a very low glycaemic index, which makes it safer for people with diabetes if consumed in moderate amounts. The high fibre content present in sitaphal/custard apples can help in regulating sugar levels.
Q. Is it safe to eat sitaphal at night?
Ans. Yes, you can eat sitaphal at night, but in moderation, too much of it can cause digestive issues.
Q. Is Sitaphal Good for Cold and Cough?
Ans. Sitaphal is a winter fruit and has a cold potency. So, if you have a cough or cold, it’s better to avoid eating this fruit.
Q. Can sitaphal help in weight loss?
Ans. Sitaphal can support weight loss because of its high fibre content. However, since it’s also rich in calories, it should be consumed in moderation.
Q. Why Is Sitaphal Called Sitaphal?
Ans. Sitaphal, also known as custard apple, is typically harvested during the winter season in India. The name is believed to have derived from Sanskrit language, where sheet, meaning cold, and Phal, meaning fruit, when combined together the fruit is called “cold fruit.
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