The native gab holds a special place among Bangladesh's seasonal fruits. Easily found in the rainy season and autumn, it is familiar to and loved by many people in rural areas.

Unripe, it tastes astringent, but once ripe it becomes sweet and soft. The gab is known not only for its taste but also for its nutritional and medicinal qualities, and modern research has found that it can help naturally with various health problems.

Gab contains plenty of carbohydrate, protein, fibre and a range of natural antioxidants. Its vitamins and minerals help maintain overall health. Its fibre in particular improves digestion and keeps the gut working well, so for people who regularly suffer from constipation it could be a natural remedy.

Gab plays an important part in boosting digestion. Its natural fibre helps food digest quickly and keeps the stomach clean. Unhealthy food often causes gas, discomfort or indigestion, and gab can help reduce these problems.

The potassium in gab helps control blood pressure, one of the main causes of heart disease. Eating gab regularly in moderation keeps the body's sodium balance in check and helps keep the heart healthy, so it can be considered a natural aid in preventing heart disease.

The natural sugars in gab give the body quick energy. People suffering from physical weakness or tiredness may feel some relief after eating it, and in hot, humid weather it helps restore energy when the body is worn out.

Because it contains iron and other minerals, gab may help reduce anaemia. Eating it regularly may improve haemoglobin levels, and it can be beneficial for people with weakness, dizziness or fatigue.

Gab contains natural antioxidants that help remove harmful free radicals. These protect cells from damage and help slow ageing, keeping both skin and body healthy.

Being relatively low in calories and rich in fibre, gab may help with weight control. It keeps the stomach full for a long time, reducing the urge to overeat, which makes it a good fruit for people on a diet.

Gab is not just a seasonal fruit but a natural food full of nutrients, and eating it regularly in the right amount can help keep the body healthy and fresh. The Bengali report cited NDTV, Healthline and other sources.

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