9 Best Health Benefits of Ice Apple

Have you ever tried an Ice apple? Some might answer yes. But for those who don't know about this delicious and nutritious fruit, read on to learn more. 

Ice apple is known for its unique taste and refreshing properties. It is also known as "Tadgola" in Maharashtra, "Nungu" in Tamil Nadu, and "Tari" in Gujarat. Ice apple is a tropical fruit cherished for its refreshing taste and cooling properties. Commonly found in South and Southeast Asia, ice apple is the perfect summer treat due to its high water content, sweet flavor, and nutrient-packed composition. 

With its high water content, this delicious fruit is nature's answer to hydration and keeps you cool and energized even on the hottest days. It is also loaded with health benefits and is a powerhouse of goodness that is perfect for nourishing and revitalizing your body when you need it most. 

Let's understand more about the benefits of an iced apple and its natural goodness in refreshing and recharging you!

What is Ice Apple?

Ice apple comes from the Palmyra palm tree (Borassus flabellifer), a type of tropical palm tree. This translucent fruit has a jelly-like texture, similar to tender coconut flesh, and is known for its mildly sweet taste.

This low-calorie fruit helps balance electrolytes and prevent heat exhaustion. This power-packed fruit gives you the goodness of Vitamins C, K, and E, protein, iron, carbohydrates, calcium, and phytonutrients. Moreover, it contains a high amount of fiber that provides instant relief from digestive tract issues. 

Nutritional Value of Ice Apple

Ice apple is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, which makes it highly beneficial for health-conscious people. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional value per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Quantity (per 100g)
Calories	43 kcal
Water Content	87%
Carbohydrates	10 g
Protein	0.8 g
Fiber	1 g
Vitamin C	5 mg
Calcium	27 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Potassium	128 mg
Magnesium	22 mg

Top 9 Health Benefits of Ice Apple You Should Know

This fruit is a great addition to your daily diet. Here are some common ice apple benefits including-

Keeps You Hydrated

Ice apples, like watermelons, boast a high water content, making them the best fruit for scorching summers. They help balance the body's electrolytes and prevent heat stroke. Their hydrating properties help replenish lost fluids in the body, keeping you refreshed and preventing dehydration.

Aids in Digestion

Do you feel constipated? Why not try an iced apple? But why? All credit goes to its high fiber properties, which help improve the digestive system. So, if you are facing issues like bloating, nausea, and constipation symptoms, an ice apple can help you. 

Regular consumption of ice apples can help prevent constipation, improve bowel movements, and promote a healthy gut. 

Promotes Weight Loss

Want to lose some extra kilos? What stops you from adding iced apples to your diet? With its low-calorie and high-water content, ice apples make a great low-calorie snack. They also have minimal fats and sugars, making them one of the best choices for people looking to manage their weight.

Relieves Stomach Discomfort

Do you often face stomach issues? Ice apples can help. Ice apples are known for their cooling properties, which can alleviate common stomach issues like acidity, gastric ulcers, and inflammation. Their natural cooling effect soothes the digestive tract and relieves heat-related stomach problems.

Good for Skin Health

The antioxidant properties of ice apples are considered effective and help to control premature aging.

It is rich in vitamins and minerals, hydrates your skin, reduces acne, and helps you get a natural glow. Add ice apples to your diet if you want ice apple benefits for a skit. You can also apply ice apple pulp directly on the skin and soothe sunburns and rashes.

Supports Liver Health

It is rich in potassium, which ultimately improves liver health. People with liver abnormalities can benefit from ice apples. They support the healing process and speed up liver recovery. 

Boosts Immunity

Ice apples contain a good amount of vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, iron, and potassium, which help to boost immunity. They enhance the body's ability to fight infections, common colds, and other illnesses.

Regulates Body Temperature

One traditional use of an ice apple is to regulate body temperature in hot climates. Eating an iced apple can lower internal body heat, reduce fatigue, and improve comfort during the hot summer.

Good for pregnant women and lactating mothers

Ice apple is nutritious and ideal for pregnant and lactating mothers. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, which are important for both women and support the health and well-being of both mother and child. 

Who Should Eat an Ice Apple?

Ice apples are good for overall health; anyone can eat them as a nutritious fruit. It benefits most people in hot climates or those exposed to high temperatures. It's recommended for:

• People with Digestive Issues: Its high fiber content can aid digestion and prevent constipation.
• People Trying to Lose Weight: Ice apple is a low-calorie fruit, ideal for weight management.
• Those with Skin Concerns: Its hydrating and antioxidant properties make it great for skin health.
• People seeking Hydration: Its high water content helps maintain hydration, especially in summer.
• People with Urinary Tract Concerns: Ice apple’s natural diuretic properties can benefit kidney health and prevent infections.

Who Should Not Eat Ice Apple?

While anyone can eat an iced apple, it has no harmful effects. Here are some people who should avoid ice apples- 

• People with Cold Sensitivity
• Individuals with Allergies
• Diabetic Patients 
• Pregnant Women

Note- Though relatively low in sugar, people with diabetes should consume iced apples in moderation and consult their healthcare provider.

Tips to Add Ice Apple to Your Diet

Ice apple is highly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some easy tips to include it in your meals:

• As a Refreshing Snack: Peel the fruit, and you can eat it as a snack. 
• Add to Smoothies: Blend iced apple with other fruits like banana and mango for a refreshing and nutrient-packed smoothie.
• Mix with Fruit Salad: Combine iced apple with other tropical fruit salad, including watermelon, pineapple, and papaya.
• In desserts: It can be combined with desserts and used in homemade popsicles, fruit jellies, toppings, or chia pudding.
• Make Drinks: Blend iced apple with coconut water for a delicious and cooling drink. 

Final Words

Ice apple is a tropical fruit and a powerful pack containing essential nutrients. From hydration to improved digestion and skin health, it's perfect for people looking for a natural way to stay cool during summer. However, like with any food, moderation is key to enjoying the full range of its benefits without any adverse effects. Ice apple is a unique, nutrient-dense fruit that deserves a place in your summer diet. Give it a try for a refreshing, health-boosting treat!

FAQs

1. What happens if you eat an iced apple daily?

Eating an iced apple daily can help maintain hydration, improve digestion, and keep your skin healthy. Its low-calorie content helps in weight loss.

2. How many iced apples can you eat in a day?

Two to three iced apples daily are sufficient to reap their health benefits. However, avoid overconsuming as they have a cooling effect that might cause discomfort.

3. Can ice apples help with weight loss?

Yes, an iced apple is low in calories and high in water, making it an excellent choice for people looking to manage their weight.

4. Is an iced apple good for diabetes?

Ice apple has a low glycemic index and is relatively low in sugars, which makes it safe for people with diabetes. Always eat in moderation. However, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before including it in your diet.

5. Are there any side effects of eating an iced apple?

Overconsumption of ice apples may cause digestive discomfort or a feeling of coldness. Enjoy an iced apple in moderation.