Ice Apple Fruit Benefits

Ice Apple Fruit! Have you ever come across a fruit that is so refreshing that it feels like a direct ventilation from nature? Meet the Ice Apple, a tropical treasure that may just become your summer favorite. Hiding behind its thick and rugged outer shell, the Ice Apple fruit benefits are a jelly-like translucent fruit from the Palmyra palm tree that has been a treasured fruit in South and Southeast Asia for generations.

Each summer as the heat rolls in, the Ice Apple re-emerges from the darkness to shine a light on hydration and nutrition. If you are looking for a naturally hydrating way to escape the summer heat, your search ends here. So, let’s break it down and expose all of the details about the amazing Ice Apple fruit benefits.

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What is Ice Apple?

The Ice Apple, or Borassus flabellifer, is the fruit of the Palmyra palm, a tree in many cultures known as a “Kalpavriksha” or wish-fulfilling tree, for all of its properties and uses. The Ice Apple is an example of earth’s natural packaging.

To look at, it appears as a dusky brown to black, coconut-like sphere. But once the outer shell is cracked, you will come across compartments of gelatinous, translucent flesh that is as visually spectacular as it is soothing.

In India, this fruit has many beautiful regional names – a reflection of the fruit’s popularity. You might hear it called Tadgola in Marathi, Nungu in Tamil, Taati Munjalu in Telugu, or Taal in Bengali.

Regardless of what you call it, the experience of eating this fruit is widely adored by many for the delicate, cooling sweetness it provides, especially on a hot day.

Ice Apple Taste

So, what is the flavor of this tropical fruit like?

The taste of Ice Apple is mild and soft in intensity. It has a slight sweetness found in nature, and is often said to taste like a combination of tender coconut and lychee. It is not overly sweet, making a wonderful light alternative for a snack.

However, the real draw of Ice Apple is the texture. The flesh is soft, juicy and gelatinous, flying in the face of traditional fruit shapes. The initial bite is followed by a rush of watery juice that instantly cools you down. This is why so many people enjoy it when the temperature rises.

Ice Apple Nutritional

Don’t let its appearance fool you. The Ice Apple is a nutrient-rich fruit – impressively packing various vitamins and minerals into a low-calorie fruit – disguising a powerhouse of goodness as a plain coolant.

Here is a selection of nutrients from approximately 100 grams of Ice Apple flesh:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	38 – 43 kcal
Carbohydrates	9.2 – 10 g
Protein	0.6 g
Fat	0.1 g
Dietary Fiber	1.1 – 15 g
Water Content	~90%

Besides these macro nutrients, Ice Apple is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals and provides vitamins A, B, and C to support our various functionalities ranging from immunity to skin health.

Ice Apple fruit benefits are also rich in minerals such as potassium (necessary for heart and liver function), calcium (needed for strong bones), iron, zinc, and phosphorus – and that lists the major nutritional foundation of its impressive health benefits.

10 Ice Apple Benefits

This fruit is an amazing superfood during summer months. Ice Apple fruit benefits for health extend beyond just thirst-quenching. Here is a look at the top 10 health benefits of consuming Ice Apple as a seasonal fruit.

1. Provides Natural Hydration

Since Ice Apple has a water composition of about 90% it is up there with the best natural hydrators! Ice Apple fruit benefits provides more than just water, it has other important electrolytes (i.e. potassium and magnesium) to help replace lost minerals that can occur by sweating and help restore fluid loss, ultimately preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

2. Boosts Digestive Health

Ice Apple fruit benefits are also a source of dietary fiber which acts as a gentle laxative to help avoid and relieve constipation. With similar properties to what we would say was cooling, and as an anti-inflammatory, Ice Apple fruit benefits can relieve the gut of issues such as bloating, nausea, and acidity and has been used as a home remedy.

3. Strengthens Immune System

With its supercharged combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this fruit is a true friend to your immune system. We can’t fail to mention the fruit’s Vitamin C content. Vitamin C triggers the production of disease-fighting white blood cells—your body’s first line of defense against infections.

In addition, the phytochemicals in Ice Apple fruit benefits have antibacterial and antiviral properties to provide as an additional layer of protection.

4. Keeps Skin Glowing

The antioxidants and vitamins in Ice apple fruit benefits can have a glorifying effect on your skin. Vitamin C is essential to the skin’s production of collagen, which is necessary to hold skin elasticity and prevent wrinkles. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, you can also use the pulp of the fruit directly on the skin to treat sunburn, prickly heat, and rashes.

5. Supports Weight Management

With its low-calorie density and high water and fiber content, Ice apple makes a sensible snack option for people looking to manage their weight. Ice apple fruit benefits helps you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of reaching for unhealthy snacks that are processed or far too calorically dense. The natural sugars in Ice apple fruit benefits provide quick energy without the guilt.

6. Supports Heart Health

Ice Apple fruit benefits are loaded with potassium and only a small amount of sodium. This combination is great for encouraging normal blood pressure levels. Potassium balances the effects of sodium and regulates blood pressure, reducing the possibility of stroke and other cardiovascular problems.

7. Improves Liver and Kidney Function

The high potassium content in Ice Apple fruit benefits are known to be good for the liver as it helps flush out toxic substances from the body. Similarly, it has diuretic properties that can enhance kidney function by removing toxins and possibly preventing kidney stones.

8. Provides a Natural Energy Boost

Are you feeling tired in the summertime? Rather than grabbing a sugary drink, choose an Ice Apple instead. Ice Apple fruit benefits contains a natural mix of sugars, electrolytes, and minerals which can provide an effective immediate and long-lasting energy boost and tactic to counteract summertime fatigue.

9. Balances Body Temperature

In Ayurvedic texts, Ice Apple fruit benefits are considered a cooling food, or “Sheetala”. It is known to pacify Pitta (heat) dosha in the body, and actually reduces our internal body heat. This is a welcome benefit in summer, or for anyone who suffers from heat boils or heat-related syndromes.

10. Rich in Beneficial Plant Compounds

Ice Apple fruit benefits contains phytonutrients such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and amino acids. These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help with overall health by protecting cells from damage, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy aging.

Ice Apple Price

The price of Ice Apple varies regionally and seasonally. As a very seasonal fruit, you can find it the most abundantly and affordably during the summer months, which typically span April to July. In its native conditions, such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, or West Bengal, it is often reasonably priced when you can find it, selling in clumps of three or four for a nominal price tag.

In other regions of India or in specialty fruit shops, the price will increase, usually due to transportation costs. If you are looking for Ice Apples outside of the country, it may be rare and priced as a premium in other countries.

The best place to find Ice Apples is during the summer (May-August) at your local Indian or Asian grocery store.   

Ice Apple Calories

As shown in the nutritional chart, Ice Apple fruit benefits are one of the lowest-calorie fruits you can find. A three and one-half ounce (100 grams) serving has about 38 to 43 calories. Consequently, Ice Apple is the perfect fruit if you want a light, healthy, and satisfying snack that won’t ruin your diet goals. You can enjoy its sweet cooling deliciousness, without the worry of calories.

Ice Apple Side Effects

While Ice Apple is generally safe for most people to consume and is not known to cause allergies, there are a few precautions to keep in mind.

• Overconsumption: Eating too many ice apples, especially if they are overripe or not fresh, may lead to stomach aches, diarrhea, or cramps due to their high fiber and water content-5.
• Cooling Nature: Individuals who are prone to frequent colds, coughs, or sore throats should consume it in moderation. Its intense cooling properties might not be suitable for them, especially if eaten in large quantities.
• Pre-existing Conditions: People with kidney conditions that require a potassium-restricted diet should be cautious, as the fruit is high in this mineral. Those with specific gastrointestinal disorders like IBS might also want to introduce it slowly to see how their system reacts.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While some sources note it’s traditionally considered good for lactating mothers, pregnant women should consult their doctor before adding it to their diet regularly, especially if they are prone to colds or have gestational diabetes.
• Always Choose Fresh: Because of its high moisture content, Ice Apple spoils quickly. Always ensure you are consuming fresh fruit to avoid any stomach upsets.

The Final Word

The Ice Apple fruit benefits is much more than a seasonal delicacy. It is an example of nature’s genius and a great remedy for the heat of summer. Not only will it help you stay hydrated and your digestion, but it also promotes great skin health and boosts energy levels.

This ‘fruit of life’ doesn’t just taste delicious, it’s nutritious too. Next time you see someone who’s vending that stack of round dark fruits, do not think twice. Rip one open, spoon out the sweet, translucent jelly, and treat yourself to a refreshing, natural taste. Your body will appreciate the indulgence.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general educational and awareness purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or health routine. The author and website are not responsible for any outcomes resulting for the use of this information.

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