Sapodilla Fruit (Chiko): An Exotic Fruit That Can Prevent Cancer, Digestive Problems, And A Lot More

Dr. Farrah Agustin-Bunch

Chiko is an evergreen tree that can be found in the Philippines, India, Bermuda, and the Florida Keyes. Some call it sapota, capotta, chikku, and sapota. Its fruit has a sweet aroma with its fleshy brown skin and grainy sweetness in the inside. When overripe, it tastes mushy and fermented. It is healthier to eat with its skin and can be used in making shakes, smoothies and ice cream or crush and boil to make a syrup.

Furthermore, Chiko is a storehouse of beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. A 100-gram Chiko fruit contains the following:

Let’s take a look at the benefits we can obtain from adding Chiko into our diet.

Treats Gastric & Bowel Disorders:

Tannins, a naturally occurring polyphenol, are present in Chiko. Tannins have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, and antiviral properties. Its juice can help remove waste from the belly and prevent health problems like gastritis and bowel disorders.

High Vitamin A Content

Vitamin A is needed by our eyes. Studies revealed that vitamin A helps improve vision even during old age. Enjoy this benefit by eating Chiko fruit.

Good for the Bones

Chiko has high amounts of iron, calcium, and phosphorus which strengthen and improve bone quality. Also, different nutrients beneficial for various body functions are found in Chiko. These include copper, potassium, selenium, folate, and zinc. In addition to this, its vitamin B content can also reduce stress and helps to overcome fatigue.

Controls Blood Pressure

Due to its magnesium and potassium content, Chiko can keep the blood vessels up and running and regulate circulation and blood pressure.

Beauty Benefits

Regular consumption of Chiko can keep our skin moisturized and healthy. It removes toxins from our body, promotes the production of collagen, and prevent signs of aging like deep wrinkles.

Prevention Of Certain Cancers

Chiko’s vitamin A and B content can help maintain the texture of the skin and health of the body’s mucus lining. Furthermore, its dietary fiber, antioxidant, and nutrients can help provide protection against the harmful effects of carcinogens (toxins) and protect us against certain types of cancer like colon, lung, and oral cavity cancers.

Fights Dandruff & Other Debris

Chiko can help soothe the scalp to ward off dandruff, fight the bacteria on the scalp, accelerate hair growth, and get rid of the follicles debris.

Prevents Premature Hair Graying

Drinking Chiko juice every morning can help improve blood circulation and help repair capillaries to so that one can have thick and strong hair as well as to prevent premature graying of the hair.

Benefits During Pregnancy

Chiko is extremely beneficial for pregnant and lactating mothers as it is loaded with essential nutrients and carbohydrates that helps reduce symptoms of pregnancy such as dizziness and nausea and also revitalizes the body and replenishes energy.

Cures Cold and Cough

According to studies, Chiko contains chemical compounds that remove phlegm and mucus from the nasal passage and respiratory tract thus keeps congestion and chronic coughs at bay.

Boost the Immune System

Give our immune system a boost by drinking Chiko juicy every day. It has vitamin C that can fight infectious agents and get rid of harmful free radicals.