Here are 5 good reasons to eat chikoo
Deepti Khatuja says chikoo should be avoided or eaten in control by those who are trying for weight loss as it is high in calories. Leaving that concern aside, you can enjoy these health benefits:
1. Relief from constipation
Sapota fruit is a rich source of dietary fibre, which makes it an excellent bulk laxative. The fibre content provides relief from constipation. It helps to protect the mucous membrane of the colon and makes it resistant to infections.
2. Anti-inflammatory agent
The high content of tannins (poly phenolic compounds) makes sapota or chikoo an important anti-inflammatory agent. It helps in improving the condition of the digestive tract through prevention of diseases like esophagitis, enteritis, irritable bowel syndrome and gastritis. It also reduces inflammation by reducing any swelling and pain.
3. Beneficial for skin and hair
Chikoo juice helps the skin and keeps the head nourished and healthy, and also helps in growing hair. It is also effective in treating hair fall due to swelling in the head. Also, antioxidants are found in good quantity in chikoo. Therefore, it is helpful in stopping the aging process as it eliminates free radicals, and it also reduces wrinkles.
4. Controls blood pressure
The magnesium in sapota keeps the blood vessels up and running, and the potassium regulates blood pressure and circulation.
5. Cancer benefits
Chikoo contains high dose of antioxidants and has been found to be effective in lowering the risk of different types of cancers. In addition, vitamins A and B help in maintaining the health of several mucus lining of the body and the texture of the skin. Vitamin A also provides protection from lung and oral cavity cancers.