Curious About Star Fruits? Here's what you Need to know!

 Star fruit is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Oxalidaceae family and is available in different varieties. This fruit has easily been incorporated into regional cuisines and extended a unique flavour. In some areas, it is preferred as a local delicacy and in others recommended as enjoyable exotic fruit. Chinese highly prefer it with fish, Filipinos have it with salt, while Indians love it in the form of juice. The star fruit also carries a moderate nutritional profile with a good source of fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants.  

The delicious fruit is beneficial for your health in many ways. However, many people are not aware of it. Explore this article to learn everything about star fruit. 

Nutritional Value of Star Fruit

The star fruit contains several nutrients. Here is the detail of star fruit nutrition in medium-sized (91 grams). 

• Protein: 1 gram 
• Folate: 3% of the RDI 
• Potassium: 3% of the RDI 
• Copper: 6% of the RDI 
• Magnesium: 2% of the RDI 
• Protein: 1 gram 
• ​​​Fibre: 3 grams 
• Vitamin B5: 4% of the RDI 
• Vitamin C: 52% of the RDI 

As you may see, several nutrients might be low when compared to other fruits, but they are high in fibre and vitamin C and low in calories. In addition, it consists of several healthy plant compounds, such as gallic acid and epicatechin, that increase its antioxidant properties and make it a nutritious fruit. 

Potential Uses of Star Fruit

Star fruit uses are plenty, and the following are some potential uses of the fruit to fight against various health issues. 

As Immunity Booster 

The vitamin C property of star fruit helps to build a strong immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. In addition, vitamin C, antioxidants, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, iron, and potassium ensures your immune system is strong and healthy.  

In Lowering Cholesterol 

The soluble fibres present in fruits helps to lower cholesterol level. They inhibit bad cholesterol activity and eliminate fat molecules from the blood. As a result, lowering cholesterol decreases the chance of heart problems.  

Reduces the chances of Ulcer 

The bioactive compounds of star fruit decrease the probability of ulcer formation. It helps to manage the damage caused by gastritis. 

Fights against Infections 

The star fruit leaves and bark can potentially inhibit the growth of various fungi and bacteria. For example, studies have found that it has the potential to inhibit the growth of bacteria such as E. coli and B. cereus [1].  

Act as an antioxidant 

It is rich in antioxidant properties, and the leaves of star fruit consist of bioactive compounds like phenols and flavonoids that are considered natural antioxidants. It helps to fight against scavenging free radicals and cleans inflammation-causing toxins from the body. 

How to Use Star Fruit? 

The star fruit uses are numerous. Find some of them below 

• It is used in different ways in different regions; some use them in juices or preserves 
• The ability to oxidise iron promotes its usage to remove rust from utensils 
• The Australians use it in the preparation of pickles 
• Many people blend them with salads or prepare jams 
• It is also considered a digestive and tonic in Ayurveda. However, it's best to take an Ayurvedic physician's advice before taking it in large quantities 

It may not suit certain people's health conditions. Hence, it is better to get a doctor's consultation if you experience any kind of complication after using it. 

Benefits 

The star fruit is packed with flavour and nutrients. Here you can find some mind-blowing star fruit benefits

Improves Digestion and Metabolism 

The fibre content helps to maintain the digestive system. It regulates the size and softness of stool, making it easy to pass during your bowel movements. The fibre content helps to maintain the digestive system. It regulates the size and softness of stool, making it easy to pass through the digestive system. People suffering from irregular bowel movements and constipation may find relief after having star fruit. It improves bowel health and promotes good bacteria, eventually resolving health problems like poor digestion, bloating, and cramps. Sweet lime also promotes digestion. Sweet Lime benefits include relieving constipation, indigestion, and gastrointestinal problems. 

Keeps Diabetes in Control 

Star fruit benefits for diabetes ​are plenty, and they ​cannot be ignored. Eating fibre-rich foods prevents diabetes and helps to regulate blood glucose levels. Hence, it is beneficial for both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. 

Weight Control 

This fruit is an ideal option for those who fear weight gain. Being low in calories and sugar makes it the best snack option to munch without worrying. In addition, the high fibre content stimulates metabolism and burns calories quickly. 

Promotes Heart Health 

The presence of minerals like sodium and potassium keeps the heartbeat rhythm stable and regulates the blood pressure level. This fruit is a potential member of the Calcium food chart. A healthy amount of calcium lowers the risk of heart diseases like stroke and cardiac arrests. It balances the fluid and blood circulation of the body. 

Benefits Skin 

​​Antioxidants like vitamins B and C protect skin cells from damage and offer glowing skin. It also repairs hair damage and promotes shining hair. Therefore, star fruit benefits for the skin are unending. Other fruits like Jackfruit benefits the skin in numerous ways.​​​

 Additional read: Jackfruit Benefits with The Nutritional Value, and Preparation Tips 

Helps in Pregnancy 

The star fruit benefits in pregnancy by providing the stamina that you need during pregnancy. The nutritional property of star fruit benefits pregnancy immensely. In addition, it cures mouth and throat infections effectively during this time.  

Fights against Cancer 

The antioxidant properties of star fruit protect against the development of cancer cells, especially during pregnancy. It has a potential effect on tumour cells and promotes healthy cell viability. 

Side Effects of Star Fruit

It's always better to eat star fruit at a moderate level. However, excessive intake or eating unripe star fruit may invite complications like: 

Upset Stomach 

The oxalate levels are higher in unripe star fruit. Hence, ensure you have a ripe one before eating. Higher oxalate levels may cause an upset stomach or vomiting. 

Not good for kidney patient 

A kidney patient should avoid the consumption of star fruit. There are high chances of developing neurological complications like confusion, seizures, and even death among these people. In addition, a person with no history of kidney issues may likely develop kidney problems over time due to overconsumption. 

If you are already dealing with a kidney problem and experiencing any change after having star fruit, it's better to talk to healthcare professionals. 

Interaction with Drugs 

The star fruit may slow down the rate at which the body clears drugs and possibly lead to a higher level of drugs in the body itself. 

Hence, people on medication should schedule a consultation with a general physician to avoid possible interactions. 

Additional read: Sweet lime: 8 Benefits of this Healthy Citrus Fruit  

How to Eat? 

Bored eating star fruit in the same way? Find simple as well as yummy recipes here! 

Simple way

• Make sure it is ripe and rinse it under water 
• Cut off the ends, slice them, and do not forget to remove the seeds 
• You can also sprinkle salt or enjoy it directly 

 Star Fruit Strawberry Smoothie: 

Ingredients 

• Star Fruit – 1 cup 
• Strawberries – 1 cup 
• Lemon Juice – 1tbsp 
• Mango – 1 cup 
• Water – ¾ cup 

Directions 

• Chop all the fruits and blend them in a blender 
• Blend it as per consistency, and it will be ready to serve 

Including fruits in your daily diet promotes healthy living. Although, you may find it slightly difficult to pick taste as well as nutrition in the same ratio. Star fruit is the best option that fits both parameters equally.  

However, kidney patients and people already on medication should consult a doctor before consumption. If you are looking for an easy way for consultations, try Bajaj Finserv Health App. Here you can avail of consultation at your convenience. To get a doctor consultation, download the app, register the details and book the slot.