Carambola is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. It is abundant in both areas but has not yet gained widespread popularity. The star fruit, scientifically named Averrhoa carambola, is a star-shaped fruit that grows in tropical climates. It has a distinctly tart and sweet flavor.
The more vivid or yellow the Carambola is, the sweeter it will taste
What Is Carambola?
Carambola, also known as star fruit, is a tropical fruit from Southeast Asia. The fruit is the fruit of the Averrhoa carambola tree. Its fruit is edible and is high in vitamin C. It is commonly used in smoothies, desserts, and other sweet foods.
The star-shaped fruit is delicious when eaten raw and is frequently used as a garnish. The crisp, juicy flesh is sweet and tart and is a popular addition to salads, desserts, and relishes. The fruit is also grown in tropical climates in South America and Australia. It is available in most grocery stores.
Carambola fruit is light yellow with brown ridges. Its flesh is sweeter than its green counterpart. It is low in calories and is high in dietary fiber and Vitamins A and C. It also contains a small amount of folate. The fruit is also high in potassium and magnesium.
Moreover, carambola is very sweet and can be used in recipes without adding extra sugar. It can also be used in salads and as a flavoring. The more vivid or yellow the fruit is, the sweeter it will taste.
Nutrition Facts of Carambola
Carambola is considered a superfood because of its high nutritional value. It contains less than one gram of fat per serving and is an excellent source of vitamin C. In addition, it is rich in fiber, so it's a great addition to a balanced diet.
Nutritional facts of 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of star fruit include:
- Calories 31
- Carbohydrates 6.73 g
- Sugars 3.98 g
- Dietary fiber 2.8 g
- Fat 0.33 g
- Protein 1.04 g
- Vitamin A equiv .lutein zeaxanthin 66 μg
- Thiamine (B1) 1% of the Daily Value - 0.014 mg
- Riboflavin (B2) 1% - 0.016 mg
- Niacin (B3) 2% - 0.367 mg
- Pantothenic acid (B5) 8% - 0.391 mg
- Vitamin B6 1% - 0.017 mg
- Folate (B9) 3% - 12 μg
- Choline 2% - 7.6 mg
- Vitamin C 41% - 34.4 mg
- Vitamin E 1% - 0.15 mg
- Calcium 0% - 3 mg
- Iron 1% - 0.08 mg
- Magnesium 3%10 mg
- Manganese 2% - 0.037 mg
- Phosphorus 2% - 12 mg
- Potassium 3% - 133 mg
- Sodium 0% - 2 mg
- Zinc 1% - 0.12 mg
- Water 91.4 g
Vitamins and Minerals
Carambola is an incredibly healthy fruit with a low-calorie count and high dietary fiber. It also contains high levels of vitamins A and C. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and a regular heartbeat. It is also low in calories and has a high amount of dietary fiber, which speeds up the metabolism and keeps you fuller longer.
Vitamin C in carambola boosts iron absorption and improves the body's ability to utilize the mineral. This increases red blood cell production and wards off symptoms of fatigue and lightheadedness. Additionally, carambola contains antibacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal properties.
The starfruit is also low in calories and has a high fiber content, which helps to boost metabolism and curb appetite. It is also packed with potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and improve circulation. Calcium is another essential nutrient in the starfruit, which helps to relieve tension in arteries and blood vessels and reduces the risk of heart disease. It has a high level of oxalic acid and must be thoroughly washed before consumption.
Health Benefits of Carambola
Carambola fruit is a powerful food with a variety of health benefits. It is packed with fiber, manganese, and antioxidants. Consuming this fruit regularly can help prevent high cholesterol, a leading cause of heart disease. Additionally, it helps regulate digestion and reduces gastrointestinal disorders.
Carambola is an excellent source of potassium. It is also low in calories and fat. It also contains several health-promoting antioxidants, such as pyridoxine, folate, and riboflavin. These vitamins alter metabolic processes and improve circulation and cognitive control. Furthermore, carambola is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and prevents constipation.
Another essential aspect of the carambola's health benefits is its ability to protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals damage DNA in the body and can cause cancer. The bacteria in the carambola help prevent this from happening. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and iron, making it an excellent food for controlling anemia. The iron and vitamin C in the carambola work together to promote efficient mineral absorption.
Carambola is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. It also helps produce red blood cells, essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body. This star fruit can be consumed directly or in smoothies to benefit from these nutrients. It also helps produce collagen, which can help your skin remain radiant.
Moreover, carambola is a popular ingredient in health and beauty products. Its benefits range from great skin and hair to disease prevention. Traditional Ayurvedic medicines use them for their beneficial properties. Its antioxidant and fiber content helps lower toxicity levels in the body and may even reduce cancer risk. Its benefits for pregnant women include improved immunity, better digestion, and reduced blood pressure.
Side Effects
In Sri Lanka, it is commonly used as a natural remedy for diabetes mellitus and has hypoglycaemic properties. However, many people do not realize the dangers of ingesting the fruit, which may lead to kidney and neurological impairment.
Tips on Including Carambola in Meal
If you like delicate and light fruit, you should consider adding a carambola to your meal plan. They are very versatile and delicious. You can chop them and use them as a garnish or add them to salads. You can also eat them whole.
The fruit is sweet and contains fiber and potassium. This fruit is edible up to three months after it is harvested. The flesh is yellow or green with a waxy appearance. Look for an even color and avoid the ones that have brown edges or spots. You should also keep it away from cold temperatures.
Carambola can be eaten raw, juiced, or dried and included in all sweet and savory dishes. You can incorporate it in desserts such as starfruit upside-down cake, sorbet, and starfruit newtons. This starfruit is also good in curries and seafood dishes. It can also be used as a garnish. You can also pair it with other fruits or vegetables for an exciting meal.
