When sliced, star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.)has five points and looks like a star.
Ripe star fruit tastes sweet with some tart, sour, or tanginess.
It’s been compared to a combination of pear, green grape, and orange flavors.
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Star fruit contains compounds that are beneficial to overall health.
However, people with kidney disease and other diseases must avoid it due to potential side effects.
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Is Star Fruit Nutritious or Dangerous?
Star fruit is nutritious, serving as a good fiber and vitamin C source.
It also has plant-based compounds and smaller amounts of minerals (magnesium, potassium, and zinc).
However, the high levels can build up and become toxic for people with kidney disease.
If you eat the skin, ensure it is washed properly and thoroughly.
Should the outside turn brown, it is overripe.
Much of the clinical research evaluating the potential health benefits of star fruit has been conducted in animals.
More human studies are needed.
Helps Prevent Chronic Inflammation
Star fruit contains high levels of antioxidants, such as the following:.
Some forms of fiber act asprebiotics; they feedprobioticsor healthy bacteria in your gut.
Having enough good bacteria is important for digestion and controlling harmful bacteria.
Who Shouldnt Eat Star Fruit?
In India, people sometimes use star fruit juice for hangovers or fever relief.
Summary
Star fruit is a sweet and sour-tasting fruit shaped like a star when cut.
In Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, star fruit has been used to treat certain clinical conditions.
If you are unsure about about the safety of eating star fruit, ask a healthcare provider.
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