In many regions of the country, summers can become quite challenging to handle. The rising temperatures can cause discomfort throughout the season unless you have methods at your disposal to keep yourself cool. One frequently shared tip for coping with the heat is to stay well-hydrated. However, if you aim to maintain good health and combat the heat, it is equally important to prioritize a nutritious, balanced diet that helps you stay cool.

A great way to do this is by adding seasonal, juicy fruits to your meals, such as ice apples. If you are unfamiliar with the term “ice apple,” you might know this simple yet tasty fruit by other names such as toddy palm, palmyra palm, and wine palm, or regionally as taad gola, nungu, taala, and thathi munjalu. The outer shell of this fruit must be peeled to reveal a soft, juice-filled interior, similar in texture to lychees. The outer layer is somewhat tough, resembling a coconut husk. This fruit is commonly found in most parts of India during April to June, when summer is at its peak. Besides India, ice apples are also available in many regions of Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

Benefits of Ice Apple

Ice apples are not only popular in the regions where they are found but also provide a variety of health benefits. Incorporating ice apples into your summer diet can help keep you healthy and cool during the hot months. Here are five benefits of ice apples that might convince you to add them to your list of essential summer fruits.

1. May Help You Stay Hydrated
Once you remove the outer layers of an ice apple, you uncover a soft core containing a bit of juice. The fruit has a refreshing flavor, and its texture is similar to that of lychees. While fruits should not fully replace your water intake, consuming fruits like ice apples can assist in keeping you hydrated.

2. May Help with Digestive Issues
Each 100 grams of ice apples reportedly contains about 15 grams of fiber. Fiber is an essential component of a healthy diet, aiding in regular bowel movements, maintaining blood sugar levels, and controlling cholesterol. To ensure adequate fiber intake, incorporate a mix of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals. Seasonal fruits like ice apples provide a delicious way to diversify your fiber sources.

3. May Be Suitable for People with Diabetes
Although ice apples are sweet, they are recognized for their potential benefits for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to control blood sugar levels. Dried ice apple pulp is also known for its anti-hyperglycemic properties. If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before making any dietary modifications.

4. May Be Beneficial for Your Skin
Ice apples are recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce skin issues such as rashes and itchiness. Consuming ice apples and using them topically may assist in managing inflammation, making them particularly beneficial during summer.

In addition to their numerous health benefits, ice apples are a delightful summer treat for both children and adults. To maintain a balanced diet, incorporate seasonal and local fruits and vegetables into your meals.

Additional Health and Financial Precautions

Beyond maintaining a nutritious diet, there are other steps you can take to ensure long-term health. Regular health and dental check-ups can help detect potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention.

Additionally, safeguarding your finances against substantial healthcare expenses is essential. Consider investing in a family floater or individual health insurance policy to prepare for unforeseen health emergencies. A health plan can help cover expenses related to accidents and serious illnesses, ensuring financial stability during critical times.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of insurance policy is a crucial decision that impacts how you manage healthcare expenses. For instance, cashless health insurance plans for individuals or families can cover a portion of medical costs directly with healthcare providers. Additionally, certain health insurance policies may cater to specific medical conditions, offering customized coverage.

By combining a healthy diet, regular check-ups, and financial preparedness, you can effectively navigate the challenges of summer while ensuring overall well-being.