Why Many People Avoid Lady’s Finger(Bendakaya-బెండకాయ,Okra) — And Why It’s One of the Most Beneficial Vegetables You Can Eat Lady’s finger, known as bendakaya(బెండకాయ),Bhindi,okra, is one of the most misunderstood vegetables on our plates. Many people push it aside without a second thought, mainly because of its slimy texture. Some say it feels unpleasant, others believe it is hard to digest, and a few even think it offers no real nutritional value. But this simple judgment has caused countless people to miss out on a vegetable that quietly supports digestion, blood sugar balance, joint comfort, gut lining protection, skin hydration, and overall internal health. In older homes, bendakaya was never questioned. It was cooked regularly, eaten mindfully, and trusted deeply. Today, modern nutrition science is slowly catching up with that traditional wisdom. What our elders understood through experience is now being explained through research — and the results are surprising. The...
Custard Apple for Weight Gain: A Tasty Secret to Healthy Body Growth
Introduction
Are you trying to gain weight the healthy way — without junk food or artificial mass gainers? Custard apple (Sitaphal) could be your delicious ally. This creamy, sweet tropical fruit is calorie-dense and packed with nutrients that support healthy weight gain, muscle growth, digestion, and overall vitality. Traditional medicine and modern research both highlight its benefits when included sensibly in a balanced diet.
Recent nutritional analyses show that custard apple provides a good combination of carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — all important for restoring energy and supporting tissue repair. In this article, we’ll explore the science, Ayurvedic perspective, recipes, precautions, and practical tips to use custard apple effectively for weight gain.
Nutritional Value of Custard Apple (Per 100 g approx.)
- Calories: ~94 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~23.6 g (natural sugars)
- Protein: ~2.1 g
- Fat: ~0.4 g
- Dietary Fiber: ~2.4 g
- Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Potassium, small amounts of Iron and Calcium
Why Custard Apple Helps in Healthy Weight Gain — The Science
Custard apple is naturally calorie-dense because of its sugar and carbohydrate content. Unlike processed sugars, the fruit provides fiber and micronutrients which allow for better digestion and nutrient absorption. A portion of the calories converts into glycogen and can support muscle recovery when combined with resistance training and adequate protein intake.
Scientific reports on nutrient-dense fruits show that combining wholesome calories from fruits with protein and healthy fats promotes lean weight gain rather than unhealthy fat accumulation. The vitamin B6 in custard apple supports protein metabolism and muscle growth pathways, while magnesium and potassium help with electrolyte balance and muscle function.
Top Benefits of Custard Apple for Weight Gain & Health
1. Natural Calorie Source
Each serving gives concentrated natural calories — perfect for people who find it hard to consume large quantities of food. Custard apple can be added to shakes and snacks to increase daily calorie intake without filling you up with empty calories.
2. Improves Digestion & Nutrient Absorption
Fiber in the fruit promotes healthy digestion and gut motility, which helps your body absorb nutrients better — essential when you’re trying to gain weight through nutritious food.
3. Provides Vital Micronutrients
Vitamins (like vitamin C and B6) and minerals (magnesium, potassium) present in custard apple support metabolic processes, immunity, and muscle repair.
4. Helps Build Healthy Mass (When Combined with Protein)
When custard apple calories are paired with protein sources (milk, yogurt, nuts, or protein powder), they support muscle rebuilding and lean mass gain rather than fat gain alone.
5. Quick Energy & Recovery
Natural sugars provide quick energy — great as a pre- or post-workout snack to replenish glycogen and support recovery.
Ayurvedic Perspective
In Ayurveda, Sitaphal is considered nourishing and strengthening. It is said to build ojas (vital energy) and balance Vata when consumed moderately. Because of its sweet and cooling nature, it is recommended for people with thin body frames and those recovering from illness. However, Ayurveda warns against excessive intake, especially in people with Kapha imbalances or digestive weaknesses.
How to Eat Custard Apple for Best Results (Weight Gain Plan)
Below are practical, tasty ways to include custard apple into a weight-gain friendly diet.
1. Morning Custard Apple Milkshake (High-Calorie)
- 1 ripe custard apple (seeds removed)
- 1 cup full-fat milk or plant milk + 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Blend until smooth. Drink after breakfast or as a mid-morning snack.
2. Custard Apple & Banana Smoothie Bowl
- 1 custard apple pulp
- 1 banana
- 2 tbsp yogurt or Greek yogurt
- Top with chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts), chia seeds
3. Custard Apple Lassi
Blend pulp with curd (yogurt), a pinch of cardamom, and a tablespoon of ghee for a nourishing, calorie-rich drink particularly good for post-illness recovery.
4. Simple Snack: Fruit + Nuts
Mix custard apple pulp with crushed roasted almonds and honey — eat as a snack between meals to boost calories and healthy fats.
Meal Pattern Suggestions for Weight Gain (Sample Day)
- Breakfast: Oats + Custard Apple Milkshake + nuts
- Mid-morning: Custard Apple & Banana Smoothie or fresh fruit bowl
- Lunch: Balanced meal with rice/roti, dal, paneer/chicken, salad
- Evening snack: Custard Apple with peanut butter or lassi
- Dinner: Protein-rich meal + steamed vegetables + a small dessert
Who Should Eat Custard Apple?
- Underweight individuals wanting healthy weight gain
- Children and teenagers during growth phases (in moderation)
- Individuals recovering from illness or surgery
- Active people and fitness enthusiasts needing extra calories
Who Should Avoid or Limit Custard Apple?
- People with diabetes — high natural sugar content (consult doctor)
- Individuals with slow digestion or IBS — can cause bloating if overeaten
- Those allergic to Annonaceae family fruits
- People with high Kapha (Ayurveda) who tend to gain fat easily — consume sparingly
Possible Side Effects & Precautions
- Eating very large quantities may cause bloating or mild stomach discomfort due to fiber and natural sugars.
- Always remove seeds — not edible and can be a choking hazard, especially for children.
- If you have blood sugar issues, track your glucose levels when trying custard apple and consult your physician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How many custard apples can I eat daily for weight gain?
A1: For most healthy adults, 1–2 small to medium fruits daily (or equivalent in shakes) is good. Combine with protein and healthy fats to promote lean weight gain. Avoid overeating.
Q2: Is it safe to drink custard apple milkshake every day?
A2: Yes, if you’re adding it as part of a balanced calorie-increasing plan and you don’t have diabetes or digestive issues. Use whole milk or yogurt and add nuts or nut butter to boost healthy fats and protein.
Q3: Can custard apple cause weight gain in the belly only?
A3: No — weight distribution depends on overall diet, activity level, and genetics. If you consume excess calories without strength training, fat may accumulate. Combine custard apple calories with resistance training to build muscle rather than belly fat.
Q4: Can children eat custard apple daily?
A4: In moderation, yes — 1 small fruit occasionally during the season is fine. Always remove seeds and watch for allergic reactions if trying for the first time.
Scientific Notes & Practical Tips
Though large clinical trials specifically on custard apple for weight gain are limited, nutritional science supports using whole, nutrient-dense foods to increase healthy calorie intake. Combining carbs (from fruits), protein (dairy, nuts), and healthy fats (nuts, ghee) is a proven strategy to gain lean mass.
Tip: Add custard apple to smoothies with a scoop of protein powder or paneer/yogurt to increase muscle-building potential.
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Murali's Thoughts
I tried a custard apple milkshake for a week while doing light strength training and noticed better energy, stable appetite, and slight weight gain. It felt like enjoying dessert while working toward my calorie goals — natural and clean. Remember, consistency and pairing with protein/exercise matter most.
Conclusion
Custard apple (Sitaphal) is a natural, tasty, and nutrient-dense option for people aiming to gain weight healthily. It offers quick calories, essential micronutrients, and digestive support when eaten in moderation and combined with protein and healthy fats. Avoid excessive intake if you have diabetes or digestive issues, and always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What About You?
Have you tried custard apple for weight gain or recovery?
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