9 SURPRISING HEALTH BENEFITS OF STARFRUIT
1. Rich sources of Vitamin A and C
As a good source of vitamins A and C, starfruit fight against free radicals and help to overcome the spread of cancer cells as well. Vitamin C also helps to ward off winter colds and flu.
2. Prevents cancers
Star fruit or carambola contains many antioxidants which make help in fighting free radicals. Free radicals are implicated in causing various cancers in the body. So, the free radical fighting ability of star fruit helps in preventing cancers.
Certain studies in animals have also shown that extracts of star fruit have a preventive action against liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Starfruit Nutrition Fact
| Principle | Nutrient Value | Percentage of RDA |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 31 Kcal | 1.5% |
| Carbohydrates | 6.73 g | 5% |
| Protein | 1.04 g | 2% |
| Total Fat | 0.33 g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.80 g | 7% |
| Vitamins | ||
| Folates | 12 µg | 3% |
| Niacin | 0.367 mg | 2.25% |
| Pyridoxine | 0.017 mg | 1.5% |
| Riboflavin | 0.016 mg | 1.25% |
| Thiamin | 0.014 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 61 IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 34.4 mg | 57% |
| Vitamin E | 0.15 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin K | 0 µg | 0% |
| Electrolytes | ||
| Sodium | 2 mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 133 mg | 3% |
| Minerals | ||
| Calcium | 3 mg | 0.3% |
| Iron | 0.08 mg | 1% |
| Magnesium | 10 mg | 2% |
| Phosphorus | 12 mg | 2% |
| Zinc | 0.12 mg |
1% |
3. Reduces cholesterol
Star fruit contains insoluble fiber which lowers the levels of various harmful fats or lipids in our body like LDL or low-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol, triacylglycerol as per a research study.
As the accumulation of harmful fats or cholesterol in the body is the main reason behind the development of various heart diseases, star fruit surely aids in preventing heart ailments.
4. Stimulate the flow of milk
This ‘magic’ fruit is given to lactating mothers as it is commonly believed to stimulate the flow of milk, help increase the production of natural milk.
5. Starfruit improves digestion
A high content of fibre in starfruit helps to improve digestion thereby regulating the proper functioning of the digestive system.
Starfruit contains insoluble dietary fibre which keeps the digestive system on the right track and also lowers the level of blood cholesterol.
6. Treats cough
Starfruits are endowed with antipyretic and expectorant properties which act as quick healers for treating cough among children. Flowers of the sweet star fruit are good for treating coughs in children.
7. Anti-inflammatory
Starfruit has high amounts of antioxidants and flavonoids which are beneficial to protecting from inflammation caused by free radicals that can cause tissue repair delays. Vitamin C pushes out toxins and helps in collagen synthesis which is an important component to repair and form bones, arteries and blood vessels. This is very important to healing the body and calming the damages that are caused at a cellular and tissue level.
8. Anti-Microbial
Starfruit contains certain anti-microbial ingredients which combat against certain types of diseases such as E.coli, microbial bacillus cereus, staphylococcus aureus and salmonella typhi.
9. Endowed with Vitamin B
Starfruit has a high content in Vitamin B5 (pantotenik acid) which helps to reduce cholesterol level in the blood and Vitamin B9 that keeps you away from the risks of heart diseases and stroke.
Source: Collection