Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is called a natural store of vitamin C. From boosting immunity and keeping skin and hair healthy to aiding digestion, it is a very beneficial fruit.

But not every beneficial food is equally safe for everyone. With certain health problems, amla can instead be uncomfortable or harmful. So it is important to know the following before eating amla regularly.

First, people with gastric problems, acidity or peptic ulcers should be careful. Amla is high in vitamin C and natural acids. Eating it on an empty stomach or in excess can increase stomach burning, heartburn, acidity or pain.

People at risk of kidney stones should also limit amla. Excess intake of the oxalate-type compounds in amla may raise the risk of kidney stones, especially for those who already have the problem.

Amla is generally beneficial for people with diabetes, but eating too much, or eating it as pickles, morabba or sweetened juice, can cause problems. Processed amla contains a lot of sugar and salt, which can upset blood sugar balance.

People with low blood pressure also need to take care. Amla helps lower blood pressure, so eating large amounts regularly may cause dizziness or weakness.

With anaemia or iron deficiency, the timing of amla also matters. Although amla helps iron absorption, eating too much of it together with iron supplements can cause stomach discomfort in some people.

In short, amla is healthy but it is not a medicine. One or two raw amla a day, or a moderate amount of amla juice, is safe for most people. But anyone with gastric, kidney or blood pressure problems or another long-term illness should consult a doctor or nutritionist before eating amla regularly.

Sources cited in the report: National Institute of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.