Not mangoes. Meet the fruit that helps India beat the heat in summer. It also improves digestion

While mangoes is the favourite summer fruit in India, when it comes to helping you keep in cool as the mercury levels go up, it’s another fruit that cane be relied upon to do the magic - and it’s none other than ice apple. It has different names across the states - It is known as taal in West Bengal and Nungu in Tamil Nadu etc.

Known for it’s tender, translucent jelly, ice apple have been used to create delicious summer drinks. As per a Better India report, each state utilises the pulp for various delicacies. In Tamil Nadu it is used to make payasam. In West Bengal and Orissa, the pulp is used to make crisp taal boras, kheer etc.

Health Benefits Of Ice Apple

It keeps you hydrated. Ice apple is rich in water and is rich in minerals such as sodium and potassium which act as natural electrolytes. This helps the body retain fluids and prevent dehydration.


Keeps you energetic. Ice apple has natural sugars - sucrose and glucose along with small amounts of B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine) and B2 (riboflavin), which helps you body convert food into usable energy.

Boosts Immunity. Ice apple is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps your body produce more white blood cells to fight infections.

Ice apple also has plenty of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation is one of the leading causes of cancer and heart diseases.

Ice apple also combats digestive issues. It is rich in fibre which makes it a great food for those suffering constipation and other digestive issues.

Ice apple is also great if you are experiencing gut problems. During hot weather, many people experience stomach-related problems such as acidity, bloating, or a feeling of heaviness after meals. Ice apple is considered gentle on the digestive system and is naturally easy for the body to process, making it an ideal seasonal snack.

The fruit has mild alkaline properties that may help reduce excessive stomach acidity and provide a cooling effect internally.