India, April 14 -- As Odisha welcomes the Odia New Year with the celebration of Pana Sankranti, one thing that finds its way into almost every household is the humble bael fruit (wood apple). Whether it's in the form of the sweet and tangy pana drink or offered as prasad in temples, bael holds both cultural and medicinal value. But beyond its religious significance, bael is known for its impressive health benefits, especially during the summer months.

Here's a look at why this traditional fruit deserves a place in your diet, especially on the occasion of Pana Sankranti:

1. Good for Digestion

Bael is known for its strong digestive properties. The pulp of the fruit is rich in tannins, which help reduce inflammation in the intestines and...