A Rich Source of Riboflavin, Vitamin C, and More
Bael fruit, scientifically known as Aegle marmelos, is a revered fruit in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, prized for its extensive medicinal and nutritional properties. Beyond its traditional uses, modern research has highlighted its impressive nutritional composition, particularly its vitamin content. The fruit’s pulp is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a significant number of vitamins that contribute to overall health and wellness. While it contains several vitamins, the most notable are riboflavin (vitamin B2) and vitamin C, with studies even suggesting that bael has one of the highest concentrations of riboflavin among fruits.
Unpacking the Vitamin Profile of Bael Fruit
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Riboflavin is a standout nutrient in bael fruit. This water-soluble vitamin plays a crucial role in the body's energy metabolism, helping to convert food into usable energy. Bael fruit provides a notable amount of riboflavin per 100 grams. The antioxidant effects of riboflavin are also beneficial for skin health.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Another significant vitamin in bael is vitamin C, a well-known antioxidant vital for immune function. It is essential for the synthesis of collagen, tissue repair, and the maintenance of healthy blood vessels. Studies show that the vitamin C content is especially high in unripe bael fruit and decreases as the fruit ripens.
Other B-Complex Vitamins
In addition to riboflavin, bael fruit contains other important B vitamins. Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is required for tissue function and energy metabolism, while Niacin (Vitamin B3) is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions and brain function.
Vitamin A
Bael fruit also contains vitamin A, important for vision, immune function, and skin health. It is present as carotene in the pulp.
Comparison of Bael with Other Fruits
To put bael's nutritional value in perspective, consider how it stacks up against other common fruits.
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Bael Fruit | Apple | Guava |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riboflavin (mg) | ~1.19 | ~0.02 | ~0.04 |
| Vitamin C (mg) | ~8.7 | ~4.6 | ~228 |
| Energy (calories) | ~88 | ~52 | ~68 |
| Protein (g) | ~1.8 | ~0.3 | ~2.6 |
| Fiber (g) | ~2.9 | ~2.4 | ~5.4 |
Note: Nutritional data for common fruits can be found via USDA database resources or reliable nutrition sites. Data for bael is derived from research studies.
This comparison highlights bael fruit's particularly strong standing as a source of riboflavin and its overall robust nutritional profile, even if fruits like guava contain more vitamin C.
Health Benefits Associated with Bael's Vitamins
Bael's vitamin content contributes significantly to its traditional uses and modern-day health appeal. High vitamin C content supports immune function and protects against infections. Fiber and B vitamins aid digestive wellness. Antioxidants like vitamin C and riboflavin fight oxidative stress. Vitamins A, C, and B-complex are beneficial for skin and hair health.
Beyond Vitamins: Other Key Nutrients
Bael is rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium, and phosphorus, which are vital for bone health and nerve function. It is also high in dietary fiber for digestion and contains phytochemicals like tannins and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Conclusion: A Nutritious Addition to Your Diet
Bael fruit is a highly nutritious fruit packed with essential vitamins, including a remarkable concentration of riboflavin (B2), as well as significant amounts of vitamin C, vitamin A, and other B-complex vitamins. Its rich vitamin profile, combined with beneficial minerals and phytochemicals, supports immune function, aids digestion, and provides robust antioxidant protection. Incorporating bael fruit into your diet can help harness these health-promoting properties.
Sources
- Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa: An Underutilized Fruit with Enormous Potential as Functional Food Ingredient
- Bael (Aegle marmelos L. Corrêa), a Medicinal Tree with Industrial and Ethnomedicinal Potentials
- Bael (Aegle Marmelos): Uses, Benefits, Nutritional Value, Side Effects and More | PharmEasy
- Bael Fruit Benefits: Nutrition, Recipes, And Side Effects | Fitelo
