Chalta is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The fruit is also known as “Elephant Apple” or “Dillenia Indica.” It’s called “Elephant Apple” because of its large size and rough, elephant-like skin.
Chalta fruits are typically greenish-yellow when ripe, with a sour taste similar to a tart apple. Chalta fruits are a good source of essential nutrients like Vitamin C, iron, potassium, and dietary fibre. They also contain antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. But, they are also believed to have several chalta benefits due to their nutritional value.
They are often used in cooking to add a tangy flavour to dishes, especially in chutneys, pickles, and curries. Additionally, chalta fruits are believed to have medicinal properties and are used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes.
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Nutritional Value of Chalta Fruits
Chalta fruits, also known as Elephant Apples, contain various nutrients that contribute to their nutritional value. Chalta fruits are a good source of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient with antioxidant properties. The nutritional value of chalta fruits per 100 grams is approximately as follows:
- Calories: 67 kcal
- Protein: 1.4 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 15.8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.1 g
- Sugars: 12.9 g
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C: 9.8 mg
Minerals:
- Calcium: 38 mg
- Iron: 2.4 mg
- Potassium: 237 mg
Chalta Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Nutritional Value
Chalta is a large tropical fruit, and round in shape, resembling an elephant’s favorite fruit. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Also, contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Here are some chalta benefits:
Boost Immunity:
Chalta contains vitamin C, an essential nutrient known for its role in supporting the immune system. Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting off infections and pathogens.
Extracts from chalta benefits have antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi. This property could help prevent infections and support overall immune function.
The fruit is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants support overall immune function.
Help in Digestion:
Chalta contains dietary fibre, which is essential for promoting healthy digestion. Fibre increases the bulk of stool, easing its passage through the digestive tract and preventing constipation. It also supports regular bowel movements, aiding in overall digestive function.
In Ayurveda, chalta is often used to alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. The fruit’s natural properties help soothe the digestive system and alleviate discomfort.
The fibre in chalta serves as a prebiotic, meaning it provides nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy balance of gut microbiota is essential for proper digestion and overall well-being. Eating chalta benefits in improving digestive health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Chalta contains polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. These compounds help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body.
The antioxidants present in chalta benefits help combat oxidative stress, which is closely linked to inflammation. By neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative damage to cells and tissues, antioxidants can help mitigate inflammation.
Certain compounds in chalta may modulate inflammatory pathways in the body, leading to a decrease in inflammatory responses. This modulation may involve inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes or cytokines.
Lower Cholesterol:
Chalta is a good source of dietary fibre. Fibre can help reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines, leading to lower cholesterol levels. It binds with cholesterol and prevents it from being absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to its excretion from the body.
Chalta contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants can help prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol is more likely to contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of chalta benefits support overall heart health. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, chalta benefits help protect against cardiovascular disease, which is closely linked to high cholesterol levels.
Potential Antimicrobial Activity:
Extracts from chalta possess antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria. Its effects against bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These antimicrobial effects may be attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds in chalta, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds.
Chalta extracts have also demonstrated antimicrobial activity against fungi. Its effects against fungi such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. Chalta may have potential applications in the treatment of fungal infections.
The antimicrobial activity of chalta may be mediated through various mechanisms, including disruption of microbial cell membranes, inhibition of microbial enzyme activity, and interference with microbial replication or growth processes. Specific bioactive compounds present in chalta benefits target different aspects of microbial physiology, leading to their antimicrobial effects.
Help in Weight Loss:
Chalta is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to manage their calorie intake as part of a weight loss plan. Consuming low-calorie foods like chalta benefits helps create a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss.
Chalta contains dietary fibre, which is beneficial for weight loss. Fibre helps promote satiety, meaning it can help you feel fuller for longer periods, reducing the likelihood of overeating or snacking between meals. Additionally, fibre aids in digestion and promotes bowel regularity, which can contribute to a healthier digestive system.
Chalta is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Including nutrient-dense foods like chalta in your diet can help ensure that you’re meeting your nutritional needs while managing your calorie intake.
Enhance Skin Health:
Chalta contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and various phenolic compounds. Antioxidants are substances that help protect the skin from oxidative stress which is caused by free radicals. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants can help prevent premature ageing, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote overall skin health.
Vitamin C, present in chalta, plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis. Collagen is a type of protein that is responsible for providing both structure and elasticity to the skin. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C, like chalta benefits supports collagen production, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
The antioxidants present in chalta may offer some protection against UV-induced skin damage. By scavenging free radicals generated by UV exposure, antioxidants can help mitigate the harmful effects of sun exposure on the skin.
Boost Vitality and Vigour:
Chalta is rich in various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for overall health and vitality. These nutrients play important roles in energy metabolism, immune function, and cellular health, all of which contribute to vitality and vigour.
The antioxidants present in chalta benefits protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants support overall health and vitality, helping to maintain energy levels and combat fatigue.
Some compounds found in chalta may possess adaptogenic properties, meaning they help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Chalta benefits contribute to increased vitality and vigour by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.
Good for Eye Health:
Chalta is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and various phenolic compounds. Antioxidants are known to assist in safeguarding the eyes against oxidative stress, which is caused by free radicals.
Oxidative stress can damage the cells of the eyes and contribute to age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants in chalta may help prevent or delay the onset of these conditions.
Some compounds found in chalta may possess anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation in the eyes can contribute to the development and progression of various eye conditions. By reducing inflammation, chalta benefits protect against inflammatory eye diseases and promote overall eye health.
Chalta has a high water content, which can help keep the eyes hydrated. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining the tear film on the surface of the eyes, which lubricates and protects the eyes from irritation and dryness.
Soothe Sore Throat:
Chalta extracts have antimicrobial properties, which could help combat pathogens responsible for throat infections. By targeting bacteria or viruses, chalta benefits help alleviate symptoms of a sore throat caused by microbial infections.
In Ayurveda, chalta is often used for its soothing properties. Consuming chalta juice or a decoction made from chalta leaves may help provide a soothing sensation to the throat, reducing discomfort and irritation.
Chalta has a high water content, which can help keep the throat hydrated. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining moisture in the throat and preventing further irritation. Drinking chalta juice or water infused with chalta benefits hydrate the throat and alleviates dryness associated with a sore throat.
Final Words
Chalta, also known as elephant apple, is a tropical fruit which is a medium-sized evergreen tree with large, glossy leaves. The fruit is round to oval-shaped, with a thick, greenish-yellow rind that turns brown when ripe.
Chalta is often consumed fresh or used in various culinary preparations, including jams, chutneys, pickles, and beverages. It is known for its refreshing taste and is also valued for its potential health benefits, including digestive support and antioxidant properties.
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