Is Star Fruit Good for Diabetes??Star Fruit Benefits For Diabetes & More!!

What Is Star Fruit?

Star fruit or Carambola is a fruit that’s shaped like a five spoke star. It usually tastes sweet and sour. Star fruit has been used in a number of purposes such as pickle preparation, star fruit rasam and star fruit chutney. This is because its skin and the fruit itself has a mild sour flavour that makes it a tasty relishing dish in India. It can be seen in yellow or green color and is available in two types such as smaller or larger size. 

Star Fruit (Carambola): Nutritional Profile

Star Fruit health benefits are many. It is high in fiber and vitamin C. Besides that, Star Fruit contains protein, Vitamin B5, folate, copper, potassium, and magnesium, which help manage sugar and glucose levels. One medium-sized fruit (around 91 grams) has 28 calories and 6 grams of carbs. It has a glycemic index of 45.

100 grams of star fruit contains the following nutrients:

Advantages of Star Fruit For Diabetes

Star Fruit benefits those with diabetes because of its high fibre and low carb content. This helps regulate blood glucose levels. In Asian countries, it is promoted as a traditional remedy for diabetes.

• Used in the treatment of psoriasis and dermatitis
• Good for weight loss
• Natural immunity booster
• Good for respiratory health 
• Improves heart health

Ways To Consume Star Fruit For Diabetes

• If you like to eat raw, make sure you pick a ripe Star Fruit -- primarily yellow with hints of green. Slice, remove seeds and eat. You can also make a juice of this fruit. 
• Pair Star Fruit with avocados, kiwis, or mangoes.
• You can add it as a garnish in salads for better taste
• In Asian cuisine, it is used as a substitute for lemon or tamarind in curries. It pairs well with seafood.
• You can make a jam, jelly, or chutney.

Best Time To Consume Star Fruit For Diabetes

Morning is considered the best time to consume fruits as the digestive system metabolises or breaks down the sugar faster. You can have Star Fruit any time of day, especially for diabetic people, as long as you check with your doctor before adding anything new to your diet. Star Fruit health benefits are many. So enjoy it.

Risks of Over Consuming Star Fruit For Diabetes

Though the health benefits of Star Fruit are many, it contains a neurotoxin called Caramboxin, which might trigger reactions in some people, especially those with kidney disease. Consult with a doctor before trying Star Fruit as it can lead to kidney damage arising from a build-up of neurotoxins. People taking prescription drugs should avoid it. Some of the signs of Star Fruit ‘poisoning’ are hiccups, mental confusion, and seizure.  

Other Health Benefits of Star Fruit

• Star Fruits are anti-inflammatory fruits due to high levels of antioxidants. Research has proven that Star Fruits help ease the symptoms of chronic diseases such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
• The high fibre content helps in weight loss. The fruit is also low in calories.
• A high amount of Vitamin C helps in immunity building. It is a traditional remedy for respiratory infections.
• The sodium and potassium in starfruit act as electrolytes which prevents dehydration and improves heart health.
• One of Star Fruit's uses is that it stimulates the digestive system and relieves symptoms of constipation or cramping.