Discover custard apple (sitaphal) health benefits - creamy superfruit rich in vitamin C, fiber (4.4g), and antioxidants. Perfect for immunity, digestion, pregnancy nutrition, and heart health naturally.
Thu, Dec 11, 2025Custard apple (Sitaphal), also known as sugar-apple, is a tropical fruit known for its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and rich aroma. It is packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants. Cultivated widely in India and tropical regions, custard apple is eaten fresh, used in milkshakes, desserts, and even herbal remedies.
Custard apple (Sitaphal) is a creamy, sweet fruit packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. It supports immunity, digestion, and overall wellness.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 94 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 23.6 g |
| Natural Sugar | ~20 g |
| Fiber | 4.4 g |
| Vitamin C | 24 mg |
| Potassium | 247 mg |
| Magnesium | 21 mg |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
| Fat | 0.4 g |
Custard apples are seasonal fruits and are mainly available during:
Pick custard apples that are:
Q: Can diabetics eat custard apple (sitaphal)? A: Custard apple should be eaten cautiously by diabetics due to high natural sugar content (20g per 100g). It has a medium glycemic index (around 54). Limit to half a small custard apple at a time, choose slightly firm fruits, pair with protein/nuts, and monitor blood sugar levels closely. Consult your doctor first.
Q: Is custard apple good for pregnant women? A: Yes, custard apple is excellent during pregnancy! It’s rich in folate (prevents birth defects), vitamin C (boosts immunity and iron absorption), fiber (prevents constipation), magnesium (supports fetal development), and calcium. Limit to 1 small custard apple daily. Always wash thoroughly and discard all seeds completely.
Q: Why are custard apple seeds toxic? A: Custard apple seeds contain toxic compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues if crushed or chewed. Never crush, blend, or eat the seeds. Remove all black seeds carefully before eating the pulp. If accidentally swallowed whole (not crushed), they’ll pass through harmlessly. Keep away from children.
Q: How do I know when custard apple is ripe? A: A ripe custard apple is light green to yellowish, slightly soft when gently pressed (especially between the segments), and has a sweet aroma. The segments may separate slightly. Unripe sitaphal is hard and dark green. Let it ripen at room temperature for 3-5 days. Once ripe, refrigerate and eat within 1-2 days.
Q: Can custard apple cause constipation? A: Despite containing good fiber (4.4g per 100g), custard apple may cause constipation in some people when eaten in excess, especially if not drinking enough water. The seeds can also cause digestive issues if accidentally consumed. Eat in moderation (1 fruit), stay hydrated, and remove all seeds completely.
Q: What’s the best way to eat custard apple? A: Cut the custard apple in half or into quarters, scoop out the creamy pulp with a spoon, and carefully remove all black seeds. Eat fresh for maximum nutrients. You can also blend the seedless pulp into milkshakes, smoothies, ice cream, or desserts. Best eaten chilled for a refreshing treat.
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