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When summer arrives, the heat can feel almost unbearable. People everywhere start looking for natural ways to stay cool and refreshed. While watermelon, cucumber, and coconut water are popular choices, there’s one fruit that truly stands out in the hot months: ice apple. Also known as ‘nungu’ in Tamil or ‘tadgola’ in Marathi, ice apples are a seasonal treat that not only cools you down but also supports your overall health. Read ahead to explore why ice apples are the perfect summer snack, with expert insights from a nutritionist.
What Are Ice Apples?![3 - 2025-05-26T155503.992]( "ice apples")
Ice apples come from the palmyra palm tree, which grows in many parts of South India. The fruit looks a bit like a translucent jelly and is filled with sweet, cool water. When you peel off the thin skin, you find a soft, jelly-like fruit that is both juicy and mildly sweet. Eating ice apples is a refreshing experience, especially on a hot day.
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Why Are Ice Apples Good for You?![1 - 2025-05-26T155502.837]( "ice apples in summer")
Sakshi Singh, Nutritionist, Dietetic Place, Lucknow, explains, “Ice apples are a natural source of water, vitamins, and minerals. They help keep your body hydrated, which is very important in summer. They are low in calories and have no fat, making them a healthy snack for everyone, including children and the elderly.”
Ice apples are rich in potassium, iron, and vitamins A and C. Potassium helps balance fluids in your body and keeps your muscles working well. Iron supports healthy blood, while vitamins A and C help your skin glow and boost your immune system. The fruit is also gentle on the stomach, so it can help with digestion and prevent problems like acidity or constipation, which can be common in hot weather.
Natural Hydration for Hot Days![2 - 2025-05-26T155500.885]( "ice apple health benefits")
One of the best things about ice apples is their high water content. Each bite is full of natural, sweet water that helps replace fluids lost through sweat. This makes ice apples a great choice for people who spend time outdoors, play sports, or just need quick relief from the heat. The fruit’s natural sugars also give you a gentle energy boost without the crash you get from sugary drinks.
Ice apples are simple to prepare and eat. Just peel off the thin outer layer and enjoy the soft, jelly-like fruit inside. You can eat them as they are, add them to fruit salads, or blend them into smoothies for a cool treat. They are best enjoyed fresh and chilled. In many parts of India, you’ll find vendors selling ice apples on the roadside during summer, making them easy to find and enjoy.
A Natural Way to Support Health
Besides hydration, ice apples are also good for your skin. The vitamins and minerals in the fruit help keep your skin soft and glowing, even during the harsh summer months. Because they are easy to digest, ice apples are also a good option for people who have sensitive stomachs or are recovering from illness.
A study published in the journal Food Science and Nutrition found that fruits with high water content, like ice apples, are effective in preventing dehydration and heat-related illness. The study highlights the importance of eating seasonal, water-rich fruits during summer to support overall health.
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Conclusion
Ice apples are a delicious, natural way to stay cool and hydrated in the summer. They are low in calories, full of nutrients, and easy to digest. As Sakshi Singh says, “Including ice apples in your summer diet is a simple way to care for your health and beat the heat naturally.” Next time you feel the summer sun, reach for an ice apple and enjoy its refreshing goodness!