Shaped like a star when cut crosswise, the starfruit not only makes for beautiful presentation when served, it is also a wonderful source of many nutrients.

This uniquely shaped fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B (eg. folates, riboflavin, and pyridoxine) and C, as well as potassium. It is also one of the few fruits that contain calcium. It also contains amino acids, phosphorus, zinc and iron.

Rich in dietary fiber, the fruit can help improve your cholesterol profile by preventing the absorption of LDL cholesterol in the gut. The fibers can also help protect the mucous membrane of your colon from toxic substances as it binds to carcinogenic substances in the colon.

This tropical fruit is traditionally used as a diuretic.

Note that starfruits are not suitable for those with kidney stones or gout, as they contain oxalic acid.

Also, starfruits contain some powerful enzyme inhibitors that can diminish the effectiveness of drugs. As such, you might need to check with your doctor on your intake of starfruits if you are on prescription drugs like statins or benzodiazepines.

References
[1] Collins, Elise Marie. An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods: A Shopper’s Companion. San Francisco, California: Conari Press, 2009. Print.
[2] http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/star-fruit.html

Cindy L. TJOL is trained in Psychology, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has several years of experience writing on natural health on the internet. Follow her on her blog and read her other articles at Insights On Health.com.