Sitaphal Secrets: Why Custard Apple Deserves a Spot on Your Plate
Remember those afternoons, waiting impatiently for the Sitaphal on the kitchen counter to ripen? You’d press it gently each day, hoping it had reached that perfect softness. The reward for your patience was a creamy, sweet treasure that you’d scoop out with a spoon, meticulously separating the glossy black seeds. It wasn't just a fruit; it was a seasonal ritual.
In today’s rush for exotic fruits, we often forget the nutritional treasures from our backyards. Sitaphal (custard apple) is a true Indian superfood, rich in nutrients and flavor, and it’s time we put it back on our plates.
Why Your Grandmother Was Right About Sitaphal
A Natural Immunity Booster
Sitaphal arrives just as the weather changes, bringing Vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that strengthen immunity and protect against cellular damage.
Your Tummy’s Best Friend
With its high fibre content, Sitaphal supports digestion, prevents constipation, and nurtures a healthy gut microbiome.
A Boon During Pregnancy
Rich in folate (Vitamin B9), Sitaphal supports fetal brain and spinal cord development, while its natural sweetness helps manage pregnancy cravings.
Glowing Skin & Healthy Hair
The Vitamin A and C combo in Sitaphal enhances skin elasticity, radiance, and hair strength—an edible beauty treatment!
Let’s Clear the Air: Common Sitaphal Myths
“Is custard apple good for diabetes?”
Yes—when eaten right. Sitaphal has a low Glycemic Index, releasing sugar slowly. The key is portion control, eating it whole (not juiced), and enjoying it as a snack, not after heavy meals.
“Is custard apple good for weight loss?”
Absolutely! It’s lower in calories than cakes or chips and packed with fibre, keeping you full longer and reducing junk cravings.
How to Choose and Enjoy Custard Apple
Select fruits that feel slightly soft and avoid rock-hard or mouldy ones. Explore varieties like the seed-light Ram Custard Apple, rare red Sitaphal, and even seedless types now being cultivated.
Custard Apple Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the main advantages of eating custard apple in season?
Boosted immunity, improved digestion, better skin and hair health, and natural energy from essential vitamins and minerals.
Q2: Is Sitaphal good for weight loss?
Yes. Its fibre keeps you full, preventing overeating. Natural sugars paired with nutrients make it healthier than processed sweets.
Q3: Can pregnant women eat custard apple?
Yes! Its folate supports fetal development, while fibre and energy help mothers stay healthy and energized.
Q4: What varieties of Sitaphal are available?
Popular ones include the green Sitaphal, Ramphal (Bullock’s Heart), Hanumanphal, and even red and nearly seedless varieties.
Embrace This Seasonal Gift
The next time you see a vendor selling Sitaphal, don't walk past it fearing its sweetness. See it for what it is: a seasonal, local, and nutrient-dense gift. It’s a piece of our heritage and a powerhouse of nutrition rolled into one creamy, delicious package.
Ready to rediscover the creamy, wholesome goodness of Sitaphal? Explore Frootree’s selection of farm-fresh fruits, including the exquisite Ram Custard Apple, delivered right to your doorstep in Kozhikode. Don’t just eat; nourish yourself with the best of the season.
