Star fruit, also known as
carambola, is native to Southeast Asia. Slices cut in cross-section form
a five-pointed star, which is where it gets is name. Star fruit
consumed in the U.S. is grown domestically in Florida, Puerto Rico and
Hawaii. Star fruit is eaten raw. Both the slightly waxy skin and the
juicy pulp are edible; its flavor is mildly sweet and slightly tart at
the same time. The fruit is ripe when it is still firm and yellow in
color, perhaps with a light green sheen. The edges will be brown, but
there will be no brown spots elsewhere; this is an indication the fruit
is overripe.
Oxalid Acid and Kidney Health
Oxalic
acid is a natural compound also found in rhubarb, spinach and sorrel as
well as star fruit. It's also a common component in kidney stones, so
if you're prone to this condition, avoid star fruit. More seriously, a
condition called "star fruit intoxication" has been documented in
patients with weakened kidneys or kidney failure, says nutrition
researchers from the University of Hawaii. Symptoms include hiccups,
vomiting, mental confusion and convulsions. It may be caused by oxalic
acid or another yet to be identified toxin found in raw star fruit. In
serious cases, it can be fatal. If you have any sort of kidney function
impairment, do not consume star fruit.
Vitamin C
Starfruit
is a good source of vitamin C, with one large fruit providing 42.7 mg
of the nutrient, or 70 percent of the recommended daily value. Vitamin C
is an important antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and may
help fight cancer, heart disease and arthritis.
Copper
You
need only trace amounts of copper in your diet, but it is essential for
creating new blood cells within your body and for your circulatory and
nervous system health in general. A large star fruit provides about 8
percent of your daily nutritional copper needs.
Fiber
One
large star fruit provides 4 grams of daily fiber, or about 16 percent
of the recommended daily value. Fiber in your diet helps aid your
digestion, prevents constipation and also helps prevent colon cancer.
Calories
Star
fruit is a low-calorie food, with only 40 calories in a single large
fruit. Starfruit has less than a gram of fat per fruit. Like other
fruits, most of its calories come from sugar.
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