Custard apple is a tropical fruit that is also known as the sugar apple or sweetsop. It is a member of the Annonaceae family and is native to Central and South America. The fruit is widely grown in tropical regions and is appreciated for its sweet, creamy, and aromatic flavor. Custard apple has been consumed for thousands of years for its medicinal properties, and modern research has identified many health benefits of this fruit. In this article, we will discuss the various benefits of custard apple and why you should consider adding it to your diet.
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High in Nutrients
Custard apple is a rich source of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient that helps boost the immune system, promotes wound healing, and supports healthy skin. A 100-gram serving of custard apple provides around 23 mg of vitamin C, which is about 25% of the recommended daily intake.
The fruit is also a good source of dietary fiber, which plays a crucial role in maintaining digestive health. A 100-gram serving of custard apple contains around 3 grams of fiber, which is about 12% of the recommended daily intake. Fiber helps prevent constipation, promotes regular bowel movements, and helps reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Custard apple is also a good source of potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals are essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and nerves. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, magnesium is important for muscle and nerve function, and calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth.
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Anti-inflammatory Properties
Custard apple contains various bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a leading cause of many chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
One of the primary bioactive compounds found in custard apple is annonacin. Annonacin is a natural compound that has been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the journal Molecules found that annonacin was effective in reducing inflammation in mice with colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Another study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology found that annonacin was effective in reducing inflammation in rats with arthritis.
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Antioxidant Properties
Custard apple is a rich source of antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect the body against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a process that occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and tissues, leading to various diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
The antioxidants found in custard apple help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that custard apple extract was effective in reducing oxidative stress in rats. Another study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that custard apple extract was effective in preventing lipid oxidation, which is a type of oxidative damage that can occur in the body.
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Anti-cancer Properties
Custard apple contains various bioactive compounds that possess anti-cancer properties. These compounds help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells, making custard apple a potential natural cancer treatment.
Nutritional Facts of Custard Apple
Custard apple, also known as sugar apple, is a tropical fruit with a creamy, sweet flesh and a unique flavor. Here are the nutritional facts of custard apple:
- Calories: 100-120 per 100 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams per 100 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams per 100 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams per 100 grams
- Fat: 0.6-0.9 grams per 100 grams
- Vitamin C: 20-30% of the daily value per 100 grams
- Potassium: 7-10% of the daily value per 100 grams
- Magnesium: 4-6% of the daily value per 100 grams
- Calcium: 2-3% of the daily value per 100 grams
Custard apple is also a good source of antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains small amounts of B vitamins, iron, and zinc. However, custard apple is relatively high in natural sugars, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
