Manilkara zapota, popularly known as chikoo in Pakistan, has a sweet taste. The fruit is thin-skinned with a grainy texture and comes in a pale, yellow-brown color.
Easily available from May to September the fruit is a favorite with nutritionists because it packs a wholesome punch. Here are four reasons why chikoos are a healthy choice:
1. Loaded with II vitamins:
Chikoos contain a cocktail of vitamins. Vitamin A. which improves eyesight and delays the onset of cataract and age-related macular degeneration; vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and prevents gout: vitamin E which gives your skin a healthy glow and reduces the risk of heart diseases, thanks
To the compound alpha-tocopherol present in it the presence of these vitamins also helps reduce the risk of contracting colon and oral cavity cancers.
2. Packed with dietary fiber:
The dietary fiber in chikoos makes them a natural laxative, preventing constipation and aiding digestion. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of tannins present in them reduce the chances of erosive gastritis. Enteritis and an irritated bowel. As a fiber-rich fruit, chikoo reduces food cravings. Thereby aiding weight loss
3. High In bone-essential minerals:
The calcium content found in chikoos increases bone -density and reduces the risk of developing bone and joint -diseases. The -fruit also contains trace amounts of copper, which is anti-inflammatory and therefore reduces stillness and arthritis pain, while helping the body repair connective tissue.
The combined benefits of these minerals are a decrease in the severity and frequency of muscle spasms. Small amounts of phosphorus also help in maintaining strong bones.
Calories
Nutrients | Amount | %RDA* |
Total Fat | 1.1 g | 2% |
Protein | 0.4 g | 1% |
Total carbohydrate | 20.0g | 7% |
Dietary fiber | 5.3 g | 21% |
Vitamin A | 60.0 IU | 1% |
Vitamin C | 14.7 mg | 24% |
Calcium | 21.0 mg | 2% |
Copper | 0.086 mg | 9% |
Iron | 0.8 mg | 10% |
Magnesium | 12.0 mg | 3% |
Phosphorus | 12 mg | 2% |
Potassium | 193 mg | 6% |
Sodium | 12.0 mg | 1% |
Folate | 14.0 mcg | 3% |
4. Rich in iron:
The iron in chikoo ensures efficient delivery of oxygen to the brain, boosting memory and cognitive function. Moreover, regular consumption of chikoo is believed to keep degenerative neural conditions, like Alzheimer’s, at bay.
By Rubiya Naveed. The writer is a nutritionist.