Carambola or “star fruit”, due to its shape, originates from the Malayan peninsula and is also grown in the southern United States, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America. It has yellowish color when it is ripe and provides a sweet and sour taste, like a combination of pineapple, pear, citrus, and grape.
It contains 31 calories in 100 gr and is packed with many nutrients like niacin, folate, lutein, antioxidants, vitamin C, B, riboflavin, iron, zinc, potassium, manganese, and calcium.
What are the health benefits of star fruit?
Fights insomnia and improves sleep
Magnesium is extremely helpful in the case of insomnia and disturbed night sleep, and the carambola fruit is high in this mineral. Hence, its consumption will help you improve sleep and get the proper rest.
Beneficial for the development of a fetus
Star fruit contains folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, it can be very beneficial for pregnant women and their babies. This substance is essential during the first months of gestation, because it is very important for proper developing of the neural tube and baby’s brain. Also, eating this fruit after delivery is very beneficial because it aids in the formation of breast milk.
It provides antimicrobial properties
According to many studies, star fruit is able to successfully fight infections which are caused by, Klebsiella, E.coli, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus Aureus, Salmonella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Strengthens the immune system
Star fruit is packed with vitamin C which strengthens immunity and prevents various viral diseases, like common colds, influenza, and the like.
Improves digestion
The fiber in the star fruit improves digestion, as it clears the intestines and bounds high amounts of water, fighting constipation. Its consumption after heavy meals will improve digestion and prevent digestive issues.
Lowers cholesterol
Due to the high fiber content, the carambola fruit promotes heart health and reduces the levels of bad cholesterol. Bad cholesterol leads to clogged arteries and thus causes heart attacks. On the other hand, the consumption of the star fruit will increase the HDL levels or good cholesterol.
Regulates hypertension
Sodium is the strongest weapon against blood pressure, and the star fruit is low in it but is contains high amounts of potassium which regulates blood pressure. The regular consumption of this fruit will treat hypertension.
Controls diabetes
Diabetic people can consume the fruit without causing sugar spikes as the fruit contains low sugar levels. Moreover, the fiber in star fruit will help in preventing fast glucose absorption from the gut, while the blood sugar levels will maintain constant throughout the day.
Improves eye-sight
The vitamin A content of star fruit contributes to a perfect health for your eyes.
Is great for the skin
This fruit is packed with flavonoids which can assist you have a healthy skin and will prevent diseases like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. The fruit will also help you with acne issues due to the great amounts of zinc it contains.
NOTE: people who suffer from kidney failure, kidney diseases, or are on kidney dialysis must not consume this fruit due to the high amounts of oxalic acid which can cause vomiting, confusion, and nausea. Moreover, when taking meds like opiates, benzodiazepines, or satins you have to be cautious as the fruit can interfere with them.
Source: healthyfoodhouse
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