Custard apples, often called cherimoya, have numerous health benefits that you should be aware of. The elegant custard apple - which is known as sharifa or sitaphal in Hindi - is a white-coloured, soft and chewy fruit with firm skin. It has a creamy feel and is high in nutrients. If you didn’t know yet, it’s also a great dairy substitute, and lactose intolerant people in many nations prefer it. Let’s look at some of the health advantages of custard apples.
1. Source of antioxidants
High levels of oxidative stress in the body can lead to long-term ailments like cardiovascular disease and cancer. Sitaphal contains antioxidants such as kurinic acid, Vitamin C flavonoids, and carotenoids. By neutralising oxidising chemicals, they reduce the risk of chronic disorders.
2. Elevates Mood
Vitamin B6, commonly known as pyridoxine, is abundant in custard apples and aids the body’s production of dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters increase a person’s mood. Stress, depression, and other mental health difficulties are caused by their shortage.
3. Helps Control Blood Pressure
In sitaphal, potassium and magnesium are high. They help to lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. As a result, they keep their hearts healthy and avoid cardiovascular disorders like strokes.
4. Aids Vision
Lutein, a naturally-occurring carotenoid which is said to be good for the eyes, is found in sitaphal. By maintaining good eye health, it defends against free radicals and helps to avoid disorders like cataracts and macular degeneration.
5. Anti-Cancer Properties
Flavonoids found in custard apples - such as catechin, epicatechin, and epigallocatechin - have been found to inhibit the formation of malignant cells. Another study found that catechin in custard apples inhibits breast cancer cell multiplication. Furthermore, some studies show that people who eat a diet high in flavonoids have a lower risk of cancer.
6. Prevents Inflammation
Kaurenoic acid and other anti-inflammatory chemicals can be found in custard apples. It is said that they help to avoid diseases like cancer and heart disease that are linked to chronic inflammation. According to a study, this fruit also increases the production of anti-inflammatory chemicals like catechin, epicatechin, and epigallocatechin.
7. Boosts Immunity
Sitaphal is high in Vitamin C, a vitamin that boosts immunity and protects against illnesses. Its absence increases the risk of infection. Vitamin C may also aid to shorten the duration of the common cold, according to a study.
8. Improves Skin
Collagen is a protein that gives your skin its elasticity, plumpness, smoothness, and youthful appearance. Collagen production declines with age, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. Custard apples promote collagen formation, which keeps your skin looking young and healthy. Collagen degradation is also slowed by its constituents. Antioxidants in sitaphal counteract oxidative stress, which helps to postpone ageing signs and blemishes.