Weight loss, good sleep: Potential benefits of eating star fruit
Star fruit is a sweet and sour juicy fruit that when cut looks like a starfish! This tropical fruit is native to Southeast Asia but is now cultivated in various tropical climatic regions across the world. It is mainly found and consumed in India during summer. Also known as carambola, this fruit is highly beneficial for us. Here's how.
Here is what our expert says
Star fruit has a high water content along with fiber and vitamin C. Phytochemicals that are found in this fruit include saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids & tannins. Most studies report that it has a high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial activity. It lowers cholesterol, blood pressure, and sugars. However, it's been reported to be toxic to the kidneys and nervous system.
Nutritional facts
This nutritious fruit is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamin C. Just like any other fruit, star fruit is also packed with antioxidants. It contains plant compounds that are considered beneficial for human beings. Studies on animals have shown that they might also have the caliber to lessen cholesterol and inflammation. They also have anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties.
How to eat star fruit
Make sure your star fruit is ripe or else it will be too acidic. Ripe star fruit is yellow with hints of green on the ridges. You can eat the fruit raw. Use it in salads to add that extra zing! You can also add it to seafood dishes for a beautiful flavor. Some people make jams and jellies with it as well.
Aids weight loss
The fruit has high fiber content and low-calorie count. Raw star fruit is 91% water and has negligible fat (table). Its incredible water content makes it one of the most hydrating fruits in India. A blissful treat in the scorching summer heat, snack on it to keep hunger at bay. If you are trying to shed some kilos, this will surely help.
Helps you sleep well
The fruit is rich in magnesium, a well-known sleep-promoting mineral. Magnesium maintains levels of GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid), an inhibitory neurotransmitter that inhibits certain brain signals, decreases activity in the nervous system, and helps you relax. When GABA joins a protein in the brain called GABA receptor, it yields a calming effect to those dealing with anxiety and stress. The star fruit also regulates metabolism.
Side effects
Star fruit may be harmful to some for the high content of oxalate. Those suffering from kidney problems should avoid carambola. Eating carambola frequently can damage their kidney and lead to star fruit toxicity. This can further become the source of neurological problems. Those under prescribed medications must consult doctors before trying the fruit as it can change the way drugs affect the body.
