Star fruit also known as carambola is a tropical fruit which has many surprising benefits for your health.
Have you ever sliced a star fruit? When you cut a star fruit horizontally it surprisingly forms a shape resembling a star. This peculiar shape is visually appealing as well as makes star fruit a popular embellishment for various dishes, adding a touch of dainty to the presentation. Other than this, star fruit (carambola) benefits us in various other ways too.
The fruit also known as carambola, is a tropical fruit with a unique shape resembling a star when sliced. It comes in various varieties, and its taste ranges from sweet to slightly tangy. It is also easy to prepare and eat.
1. Rich Source Of Fiber
One of Starfruit’s benefits is that it is rich in dietary fibers. These fiber contents are beneficial for digestive health preventing constipation and supporting a healthy gut. Inculcating star fruit into your diet can contribute to your daily fiber intake, promoting overall digestive well-being.
2. Low In Calories And Sugar
Starfruit is a low-calorie fruit which makes it a great choice for fitness freaks as it helps manage their calorie intake as it only contains around 28 calories.
3. Immunity Boosting Ability
Starfruit is rich in vitamin C which is known for its role in strengthening the immune system and fighting off infections. Regular consumption of star fruit can help support your body’s defenses against illnesses and contribute to overall immune health. Including it in your diet as a source of vitamin C can help you stay resilient against common colds and other infections.
4. Improved Respiratory Health
Including star fruit in your diet can assist in maintaining healthy lungs and promoting overall respiratory well-being. Helping you make your lungs more immune.
5. Improved Heart Health
Starfruit has a positive impact on heart health primarily because it is low in sodium and high in potassium. The potassium content in starfruit helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension. Furthermore, its fiber content supports healthy cholesterol levels by reducing “bad” cholesterol in the bloodstream. It helps in the lowering of arterial blood pressure.[2]
6. Boosts Metabolism
The fruit can keep you full for longer, and makes your metabolism work fast. This means you will burn more calories.
7. Potentially Anti-Cancer
Liver cancer remains one of the most severe lethal malignancies worldwide and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form.[3] Starfruit is also being studied for its ability to prevent liver cancer.
8. Supports Healthy Pregnancy
Star fruit benefits in having a healthy pregnancy by providing all the necessary essential nutrients and nourishments a new mother needs. It is a good source of folic acid. It helps prevent birth defects in the baby’s neural tube too.
9. Beneficial For Diabetics
Starfruit can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes due to its low glycemic index and relatively low sugar content. The low glycemic index means that star fruit has a milder impact on blood sugar levels, making it a suitable fruit choice for those with diabetes.
10. Reduces Inflammation
Antioxidants inside starfruit help neutralize free radicals in the body, which are known to cause inflammation and cellular damage. The sugars in star fruit may reduce inflammation.[4] Due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, star fruit may also help with sore throat and cough and has been used in ancient times.[5]
11. Aids Digestion
Fiber in the fruit promotes healthy digestion by facilitating regular bowel movements. It can also help maintain a healthy gut by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
12. Supports Healthy Hair Growth
Being good for hair health is also one of Starfruit’s benefits. It is said that the star fruit is wonderful for the hair since it contains nutrients the hair needs. In addition, this fruit is also a good source of zinc. Some research suggests that zinc may help treat alopecia areata and promote recovery of the hair follicles.[6]
13. Detoxifies The Body
Star fruit’s diuretic properties may support the body’s natural detoxification processes by aiding in the removal of waste and excess fluids through urination. This fruit helps in cleansing your liver and kidneys. However, studies have shown that people with pre-existing kidney conditions should avoid consuming star fruit as it causes renal issues.[7]
14. Helps Lower Cholesterol
Starfruit can bind to cholesterol molecules. The soluble fiber in star fruit has cholesterol-lowering effects.[8] Additionally, star fruit’s low-calorie and low-fat content make it a heart-healthy choice.
15. Improves Sleep
Vitamin C is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep patterns and mood. By including star fruit in your diet, you may experience improved sleep quality and better overall rest.
16. Anti-Ucler Properties
Starfruit possesses potential anti-ulcer properties. These compounds in the star fruit helps to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by factors such as excessive stomach acid. Acting as a strong protector of the stomach from ulcers. Sweet starfruit has an anti-ulcer potential effect with its antioxidant content which is flavonoids.[9]
17. Regulates Blood Pressure
Star fruit (Kamrakh) has a good amount of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium that may help to regulate blood pressure and might help with heartbeat and blood flow.[10] Primarily due to its high potassium content. Potassium is known to promote blood vessel dilation, which can lead to lower blood pressure level
18. Rich In Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It helps the body absorb non-heme iron from plant-based foods.
19. Hydrates The Body
Starfruit can help keep the body hydrated due to its high water content, which is approximately 90% of its composition. Proper hydration is essential for various bodily functions, including regulating body temperature and supporting metabolic processes.