Star fruit, otherwise known as carambola, is a tropical star-shaped citrus native to Southeast Asia.
Like an apple, star fruit has an edible skin. It has a similar texture to a grape and has a sweet, tart flavor like a green grape but mixed with something more mild. It is green when growing but ripens to a beautiful pale yellow.
It is high in water content and vitamins A and C while low in calories, fat and carbs. Anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties are among its best qualities.
The pulp is rich in soluble fiber, aiding in digestion, and it a high electrolyte content make it a good choice in warm temperatures or after a workout. On a hot summer day, I enjoyed slices of it alone and on top of a cold chia pudding.
Being low in carbohydrates and rich in potassium makes it a safe choice for diabetics and good for high blood pressure and both blood vessel and heart conditions. The potassium and the neurotoxins it possesses however, which can be easily digested in people with normal kidney function, can cause trouble for those with renal issues so if you have kidney disease, consult your doctor before adding it to your diet.
