The star fruit and its benefits for preventing colds

The star fruit (or carambola, but this refers to the shrub) is an extraordinary fruit not only for its incredible star shape when cut but also because the properties of the star fruit are numerous and somewhat unknown.Also known as star fruit, carambola, chiramelo, Chinese tamarind, culí tamarind, or starambolo, the origin of the star fruit comes from the carambola (Averrhoa carambola), which is a tropical shrub native to Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka, with its largest producers being Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, and Peru.This fruit can be eaten raw or cooked and has a sour taste, a fibrous texture, and is very juicy. Below, we discuss the benefits of the star fruit and its contraindications when consuming it.The amazing properties of the star fruitThe star fruit is a source of several nutrients, but especially fiber and vitamin C, which can help you prevent colds and improve digestion.A medium-sized star fruit, about 91 grams, provides you with 3 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, 52% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, 4% of vitamin B5, 6% of copper, 3% of potassium and folate, as well as 2% of magnesium. In terms of calories and carbohydrates, this portion only has 28 calories and 6 grams of carbohydrates.The star fruit also contains other substances that make it even healthier, such as healthy plant compounds like quercetin, gallic acid, and epicatechin, which have antioxidant properties and various health benefits.Among the studies conducted on this fruit, some have shown signs that it helps reduce the risk of fatty liver and cholesterol in mice, while other research suggests that the sugars contained in star fruit have anti-inflammatory properties, but more studies are needed to confirm these benefits.Photo: Brooke Lark, Unsplash.Contraindications of consuming star fruitThe star fruit has a high oxalate content, which are salts of oxalic acid that can cause adverse effects in some people, mainly in those who already have some kidney condition.People with kidney problems should avoid star fruit and its juice or consult a doctor before trying it, as one of the most common types of kidney stones is made up of crystals that contain calcium and oxalate, and it can also cause kidney damage and toxicity.On the other hand, people taking prescription medications should also proceed with caution, as star fruit behaves similarly to grapefruit and can alter the way the body breaks down and uses a medication.Although the most common way to consume this fruit is perhaps star fruit juice, you can also add it to your breakfast with yogurt, other fruits, and nuts, to have another way to include this amazing fruit in your diet.