Sapota, also known as Manilkara zapota in scientific terms, is a tropical fruit of the Sapotaceae. The fruit is native to Mexico, Central America, and Caribbean islands. Sapota has many other names, including chickoo, lamoot, nose berry, and sapoti.
The chickoo is a soft, fleshy fruit with a slightly musky taste and texture. The soft fleshy fruits are scooped to make delicious desserts, jams, and smoothies.
Sapota contains 83 calories in 100 grams. The pulp of this fruit is a good source of fibre and acts as a laxative. The fruit is a great source of vitamin A, C and niacin. It also contains folate, pantothenic and iron. Sapota’s plant compounds tannins have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They are also antiviral, antibiotic, and antiparasitic. Sapota is rich in essential nutrients that promote overall health and wellbeing.
Sapota Health Benefits
Promotes gut health
Sapota contains polyphenol, which is a natural plant compound that neutralizes the acid secretion of the gut. These powerful antiparasitic and antiviral properties also treat bowel problems, gastritis, and soothe irritated stomachs. Fibre is also a great laxative, which helps with constipation.
Stronger Bones
Sapota contains a large amount of calcium, phosphorus and copper, which are all minerals that help strengthen bones. The regular consumption of chikoo will improve the quality of your bones. Copper deficiency can lead to osteoporosis. The presence of copper is essential for bone health and promotes tissue and muscle strength.
Bolsters Immunity
Sapota is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins C and A. These nutrients play an important role in activating the immune system and scavenging free radicals. They also promote skin health and reduce chronic disease risk. It also protects the body against virus, bacteria, and parasite attacks.
Boost your energy
Sapota is rich in sucrose and fructose, which gives you instant energy. It is a great fruit to take during a workout as it provides nutrient-rich energy. It is a great fruit to take for pregnant women and growing children to help them meet their increased nutritional needs.
Healthy Skin
Sapota can be used to enhance skin health and beauty. Sapota is rich in vitamins A, C and E, which hydrate the skin and regenerate skin cells. Polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants make the skin smoother, reduce wrinkles, and slow ageing. Sapota sap is beneficial for clearing warts, fungus and other skin growths.
Cancer Prevention
Sapota, which is rich in antioxidants, is one of best fruits that can reduce the risk of different types of cancer. Vitamin A and B help to maintain a healthy mucus layer and reduce the risk of lung cancer and oral cancer. Dietary fibre is essential for a healthy gut and to protect the body against colon cancer.
Controlling Blood Pressure
Sapota fruit is highly recommended for lowering high blood pressure. It is rich in potassium and helps to lower sodium levels. It also promotes blood flow and regulates blood pressure.
Additional Health Benefits
Good for Moms to Be
Sapota, which is rich in electrolytes and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins, is considered to be a superfood by expecting mothers. Pregnant women can eat this fruit to combat morning sickness and dizziness. Lactating mothers may also consume this fruit daily, as it helps to prevent stomach disorders.
Hair Health
Sapota is a great food for skin and hair because it helps remove toxins. Sapota, which is rich in iron, potassium sodium, copper magnesium and phosphorus as well as a variety of other minerals, is also known as happy food for hair because it promotes the production collagen. Sapota oil soothes itchy scalps and moisturizes hair.
Cures Colds and Coughs
Sapota is a mixture of essential chemical compounds which can help to remove phlegm, thick mucus and congestion from the respiratory tract.
Digestive Benefits
Sapota is a healthy food that can be eaten in its skin. Chickoo contains nutrients that maintain the health and function of mucus lining. It is rich in potassium, iron and folate.
How to Select and Store Sapota?
Sapota can be found in markets all year round. The mature fruit is brown in color and can be easily removed from the stem. If you want to know if the fruit is mature, scratch it and see if the skin underneath the scurf is green.
Purchase sapotas with intact, smooth skin, free of any cuts, wrinkles, or bruises. Gently pressing the fruit with your thumb will reveal ripeness. Unripe mature fruits can be left at room temperature to ripen for up to 10 days, but chickoos that are firm and ripe can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.