Star fruit, also known as carambola, is a delicious and unique tropical fruit with a distinctive star shape. While it may be unfamiliar to some, it is a popular fruit in many states of the United States and has a refreshing, tangy flavour that is perfect for snacking or using in recipes. However, eating star fruit can be intimidating for those who have never tried it. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this exotic fruit and share some tips on how to eat it properly to enjoy its flavour and nutritional benefits fully.
We’ll take a look at star fruit’s benefits for the human body before we learn how to eat it; whether you’re a seasoned fruit lover or a curious foodie looking to discover something new, read on to find out how to eat star fruit.
Star Fruit Benefits
1. Skin
Starfruit is a tropical fruit that is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients that are beneficial for the skin. Here are some of the potential benefits of star fruit for the skin:
- Anti-ageing: Star fruit contains vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and fine lines.
- Brightening: The high vitamin C content in star fruit can also help to brighten and even out the skin tone, giving the skin a healthy and radiant glow.
- Moisturizing: Star fruit is also rich in water and natural sugars, which can help to hydrate and moisturize the skin, making it look plumper and more youthful.
- Acne-fighting: The antioxidants in star fruit can help to reduce inflammation and fight against acne-causing bacteria, making it an excellent ingredient for those with acne-prone skin.
- Exfoliating: Star fruit contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother, brighter skin.
Overall, star fruit is a great addition to a healthy diet and can provide numerous benefits for the skin when eaten or used topically as a part of a skincare routine. However, it’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional or dermatologist before trying out any new skincare ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin or any skin conditions.
2. Hair
Starfruit’s high nutrient content suggests that it could potentially promote healthy hair. To enjoy the potential benefits of star fruit for hair, you can add it to your diet by eating it raw, juicing it, or blending it into smoothies. Alternatively, you can use it as a natural hair rinse by boiling star fruit in water and using the cooled liquid as a rinse after shampooing your hair. However, as with any dietary supplement or hair treatment, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before adding star fruit to your diet or hair care routine, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
Here are some of the ways that star fruit may benefit hair health:
- Vitamin C: Star fruit is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Collagen is an important structural protein that helps to strengthen hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.
- Antioxidants: Star fruit is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Hydration: Star fruit contains a high amount of water, which can help hydrate the hair and prevent dryness and breakage.
- Nutrient-rich: Star fruit is a good source of various nutrients, including vitamin A, potassium, and calcium, which are essential for healthy hair growth and maintenance.
3. Liver
It’s important to note that star fruit contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can harm people with kidney problems. People with kidney disease should avoid consuming star fruit, and others should consume it in moderation. As with any dietary supplement, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before adding star fruit to your diet, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
The ways that star fruit may benefit the liver:
- Antioxidant properties: Star fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, which can help protect the liver from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Star fruit also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the liver and prevent damage caused by chronic inflammation.
- Liver detoxification: Star fruit contains compounds that can help support the liver’s natural detoxification process, which involves breaking down toxins and removing them from the body.
- Reduced risk of liver disease: Some studies have suggested that regular consumption of star fruit may be associated with a reduced risk of liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease and liver cancer.
4. Weight Loss
is low in calories and high in fibre, making it a potential ally in weight loss efforts. Here are some ways that star fruit may benefit weight loss:
- Low in calories: Star fruit is low-calorie, with only 28 calories per 100 grams. This means that you can eat a large serving of star fruit without consuming too many calories, which can help you maintain a calorie deficit and lose weight.
- High fibre: Star fruit is high in fibre, with 2.8 grams per 100 grams. Fibre helps keep you full for longer, which can help reduce your overall calorie intake and promote weight loss.
- Low glycemic index: Star fruit has a low glycemic index, which means that it causes a slower and more gradual rise in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic-index foods. This can help to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for high-sugar foods, which can contribute to weight gain.
- Nutrient-rich: Star fruit is a good source of various nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which can help to support overall health and wellness while you’re losing weight.
Let’s move on to the part of the star fruit that involves cutting and eating.
How To Cut Star Fruit?
To cut a star fruit, follow these steps:
- Choose a ripe star fruit that is firm and free of blemishes or bruises.
- Wash the star fruit under cold running water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Slice off the stem end and discard it.
- Slice the fruit crosswise into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
- You’ll notice that each slice has a star shape in the centre. Use a paring knife to remove the seeds from the star shape if desired.
- Serve the star fruit slices immediately or use them in a recipe.
How To Eat Star Fruit?
Star fruit, also known as carambola, is a tropical fruit with a distinctive shape and flavour. Eating it can seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious fruit in no time. Here’s how to eat star fruit:
- Choose a ripe star fruit: Look for a firm, evenly yellow fruit with no blemishes. Avoid fruits that are too green or have brown spots.
- Cut off the ends: Slice off both ends of the fruit with a sharp knife.
- Slice the fruit: Cut the fruit into thin slices crosswise so that you can see the star shape. You can also cut it into wedges if you prefer.
- Remove the seeds: Look for the small seeds in the centre of each slice and gently remove them with your fingers or the tip of a knife. Some varieties of star fruit are seedless, so you won’t have to worry about this step.
- Enjoy: Star fruit can be eaten as a snack on its own, added to fruit salads, or used as a garnish for cocktails. It has a tangy, slightly sweet flavour that pairs well with other tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.
Do You Eat The Skin On Star Fruit?
Yes, the skin of star fruit is edible and can be consumed. However, some people may find the texture or taste of the skin unappealing, so it’s a matter of personal preference. If you’re eating star fruit for the first time, you may want to try a small piece of the skin first to see if you like it before consuming a larger amount. It’s also a good idea to wash the fruit thoroughly before eating it to remove any dirt or residue.
